Abstract

Cannabis consumption is globally prevalent, and its gestation use has increased despite the unclear psychological effects, such as anxiety and risk behaviors. Objective: To determine the effects of prenatal and recent cannabis exposure on anxiety-like behaviors. Methodology: Sprague-Dawley rats (both sexes) were used, with (P+) or without (P+) a prenatal exposure to cannabis. Post-weaning, litters were subdivided into groups with (R+) or without (R-) recent cannabis exposure before testing. Anxiety-like behavior was assessed in an elevated plus maze by quantifying entries and time spent in each zone. Results: The R+ condition increased entries in the center of the maze and tended to increase entries in the closed arms. Discussion: We found that R+ has at least partially anxiogenic effects by increasing risk assessment behaviors in a novel environment. Considering cannabis high consumption, future research should explore the long-term effects of both exposure conditions on anxiety and other psychological aspects. © 2024 Francisca Bertin, et al.