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Is Marijuana a Depressant? Understanding Weed's Classification

Medically reviewed by
Dr. Po Chang Hsu
March 11, 2024
Written by

On March 29, 2024

It is widely known that marijuana, or cannabis, has been extensively used for recreational and medical purposes. Yet, its classification remains ambiguous.

Marijuana is categorized as a depressant, stimulant, and hallucinogen based on its varied effects. Nevertheless, through a meticulous examination of the facts and a deeper comprehension of how marijuana affects the body and mind, we can more precisely evaluate its classification.

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What You Will Learn

  • Marijuana can be classified as both stimulant and depressant.[1]
  • Depending on the ratio of THC and CBD, marijuana can be used as both a hallucinogenic and a depressant.
  • Marijuana interacts with the bodily systems responsible for regulating various functions, such as mood, appetite, sleep, and immune response.
  • Regular use of marijuana can have long-lasting effects on memory, the respiratory system, the digestive system, and mental health.

What is a Depressant?

Depressants are a category of drugs that can slow down the nervous system’s activity. Often, doctors prescribe them to help with anxiety and sleeping issues. However, only professionals must prescribe and oversee their use to prevent misuse and potential addiction.

These drugs can affect both the body and mind. They may cause slower breathing, make you sleepy, and help reduce anxiety. However, they can also lower one’s guard, harm one’s abilities, and lead to poor choices or risky actions. Over time, reliance on depressants can grow, which might result in addiction and symptoms when trying to quit.

What is a Hallucinogenic?

Hallucinogens are substances that profoundly affect our thoughts, perceptions, and moods. They can evoke vivid experiences and sensations that feel real but are detached from reality.

Hallucinogens disrupt brain and spinal cord communication, impacting neurotransmitter release and absorption. Examples include LSD, psilocybin, and ketamine, which can induce visual hallucinations and dissociation. Hallucinogen use can lead to unpredictable effects, health complications, and risky behaviors.

Is weed a depressant?

What are the Active Components of Marijuana?

Marijuana comprises several compounds that each play a role in its effects. Here’s a closer look at these primary elements:

  • Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC): Tetrahydrocannabinol is a dominant compound in marijuana that gives users the sensation of being “high.”[2] It engages with specific receptors in the brain, resulting in euphoria, memory impairments, altered time awareness, and an increased desire for food. Beyond its recreational use, THC serves a medicinal role, aiding in alleviating nausea, pain, and muscle discomfort.
  • Cannabidiol (CBD): CBD functions quite differently from THC. Its qualities include reducing inflammation, serving as an antipsychotic, and providing neuroprotective effects[3]. CBD also moderates the impact of THC on the body and is beneficial in addressing anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges.
  • Cannabinol (CBN): While CBN is not as prevalent in marijuana as other components, it plays a part in creating the relaxed state users experience. It’s a byproduct that forms as THC ages or is exposed to environmental factors like light and air. CBN may also be beneficial for improving sleep.[4]
  • Tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV): THCV is an emerging component of marijuana with the potential for various health benefits.[5] It’s found only in minimal amounts in certain strains and requires further research. Preliminary findings suggest that THCV may help control appetite, stabilize blood sugar, and reduce inflammation.
  • Flavonoids and Terpenes: Marijuana also contains compounds like terpenes and flavonoids.[6] These compounds are what give marijuana its distinct aroma, taste, and color.[7]

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Is Marijuana a Depressant?

When you examine the constituents of marijuana, it’s evident that its compounds interact with the human endocannabinoid system. These interactions can slow down or ‘depress’ the central nervous system. This property of marijuana makes it a potential treatment option for medical issues like anxiety, PTSD, and chronic pain.

While its legal status remains inconsistent across different states, there’s growing speculation about marijuana possibly being moved to Schedule III, indicating a potential change in the national viewpoint.

Effects of Marijuana on the Body

When individuals consume marijuana, its components interact with a bodily system responsible for regulating various functions, such as mood, appetite, sleep, and immune response. The impact of marijuana on an individual can vary based on factors such as the type of marijuana, method of consumption, personal experience with the drug, and the ratio of THC to CBD.

  • Central Nervous System: The main ingredient in marijuana, THC, influences brain functions linked to movement, balance, memory, and judgment. As a result, tasks like driving can be risky when using marijuana.[8]
  • Cardiovascular System: After using marijuana, the heart rate can rise for up to three hours. Those with heart issues might face an increased risk of a heart attack.[9]
  • Respiratory System: The smoke from marijuana can lead to irritation and potential lung problems, especially with frequent use.[10]
  • Digestive System: Consuming marijuana has been shown to lead to abdominal pain in some users. For some individuals using the drug, this can lead to nausea and vomiting.[11]
  • Immune System: It’s uncertain how marijuana affects our immune defenses. While some research hints at changes in immune function, more studies are needed.
  • Mental Health: While marijuana can give a short-lived feeling of joy, it might also result in mood shifts, including anxiety or paranoia. Prolonged use might amplify certain mental health disorders.[12]

Risks of Marijuana Use

While many people turn to marijuana for its calming effects and momentary highs, it’s essential to recognize the possible drawbacks and side effects, from immediate physical reactions to lingering mental health concerns.[13]

  • Dependency: Despite common misconceptions, marijuana can lead to dependence. About 9% of its users develop an addiction, which jumps to roughly 17% for those introduced to it during their teenage years. Overcoming marijuana addiction can be challenging.
  • Mental Well-being: Consistent use of marijuana has been linked to higher chances of experiencing anxiety, depression, and disorders like schizophrenia. It can intensify symptoms in those already vulnerable to these conditions or even trigger them in those with a genetic inclination.
  • Thinking and Memory: Marijuana can hinder essential cognitive functions like memory, concentration, decision-making, and learning. These effects might persist for chronic users long after the drug’s immediate impact has faded.
  • Physical Health Concerns: Regular smoking of marijuana can harm the lungs and result in respiratory issues. Furthermore, it can elevate one’s heart rate, posing an added risk for those with heart-related problems.
  • Increased Accident Chances: Because marijuana impacts one’s alertness, sense of time, and coordination, it can up the likelihood of accidents, including vehicular mishaps.
  • Pregnancy Concerns: Preliminary studies hint that marijuana consumption during pregnancy might negatively influence an infant’s brain development and result in a lesser birth weight.
  • Concerns for the Youth: For younger individuals, especially during their formative years, marijuana use might be especially hazardous. It can hinder academic performance and influence future prospects in life.

It’s important to note that the potency of THC in marijuana has been increasing over the years, which could potentially increase the severity of these risks. Users should be aware of this and take necessary precautions.

Marijuana and Depressant FAQs

Is marijuana classified as a depressant?

The impact of marijuana varies by individual. However, it’s widely recognized that marijuana can exhibit depressant characteristics. Overuse or extended consumption may intensify symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Are there lasting consequences from marijuana usage?

Yes. Consistent marijuana consumption can pose long-term health challenges. These encompass heightened susceptibility to respiratory conditions like bronchitis and psychological issues such as depression and anxiety. Moreover, extended use can result in memory lapses, cognitive deficits, and hampered motor functions.

Can one become dependent on marijuana?

Marijuana can be habit-forming and lead to marijuana use disorder, which takes the form of addiction in severe cases. Regular or long-term consumption might result in dependency, with users facing withdrawal challenges if they choose to detox from THC.

What happens when you combine marijuana with alcohol?

When you mix marijuana and alcohol, the sedative effects are magnified, elevating potential hazards. This combination can compromise focus, delay reactions, and boost the chances of unintended mishaps. It’s advisable to abstain from alcohol when using marijuana.

What other health risks come with marijuana?

Regular marijuana use presents various health risks. This includes a heightened chance of respiratory diseases like bronchitis, psychological disturbances including anxiety and depression, and cognitive issues like memory lapses. Moreover, driving under the influence of marijuana can elevate accident risks.

Sources:

[1] McGregor C;Srisurapanont M;Jittiwutikarn J;Laobhripatr S;Wongtan T;White JM; (n.d.). The nature, time course and severity of methamphetamine withdrawal. Addiction (Abingdon, England). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16128721/

[2] National Library of Medicine. (n.d.). Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) – statpearls – NCBI bookshelf. Tetrahydrocannabinol . https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK563174/

[3] Atalay, S., Jarocka-Karpowicz, I., & Skrzydlewska, E. (2019, December 25). Antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties of Cannabidiol. Antioxidants (Basel, Switzerland). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7023045/

[4] Lavender, I., McCartney, D., Marshall, N., Suraev, A., Irwin, C., D’Rozario, A. L., Gordon, C. J., Saini, B., Grunstein, R. R., Yee, B., McGregor, I., & Hoyos, C. M. (2023, August 23). Cannabinol (CBN; 30 and 300 mg) effects on sleep and next-day function in insomnia disorder (“Cupid” Study): Protocol for a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over, three-arm, proof-of-concept trial. BMJ open. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10450062/

[5] Abioye, A., Ayodele, O., Marinkovic, A., Patidar, R., Akinwekomi, A., & Sanyaolu, A. (2020, January 31). Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV): A commentary on potential therapeutic benefit for the management of obesity and diabetes. Journal of cannabis research. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7819335/

[6] National Library of Medicine. (n.d.). Marijuana – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf. Marijuana. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK430801/

[7] Cannabis 101: What’s the Deal with Terpenes? (2021, May 20). Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/cannabis-terpenes

[8] Pietrangelo, A. (2023, May 24). The effects of cannabis on your body. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/effects-of-cannabis-on-body

[9] Smoking cannabis associated with increased risk of heart attack,. (2024, February 28). National Institutes of Health (NIH). https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/smoking-cannabis-associated-increased-risk-heart-attack-stroke

[10] NIDA. 2019, December 24. Cannabis (Marijuana) DrugFacts. Retrieved from https://nida.nih.gov/publications/drugfacts/cannabis-marijuana on 2024, July 1

[11] Opioid addiction – statpearls – NCBI bookshelf. National Library of Medicine. (n.d.-c). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK448203/

[12] Kancherla, N., Jeyanthi, K. M., Abbas, R., Sathi, T. S. C. R., Upadhyay, A., & Garlapati, S. K. P. (2021, November). Cannabis Associated Mental Health Effects: A Review. Journal of pharmacy & bioallied sciences. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8686926/

[13] Volkow, N. D., Baler, R. D., Compton, W. M., & Weiss, S. R. B. (2014, June 5). Adverse health effects of marijuana use. The New England journal of medicine. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4827335/