Is weed hallucinogenic
Pro Research Analysisby 
Searched over 200M research papers
Is Weed Hallucinogenic?
Introduction to Cannabis and Hallucinogenic Properties
Cannabis, commonly known as marijuana, has been a subject of debate regarding its classification as a hallucinogen. While it is widely used for recreational and medicinal purposes, its potential to induce hallucinogenic effects remains a topic of interest among researchers.
Perceptual Changes and Hallucinations in Marijuana Users
Several studies have explored the hallucinogenic effects of marijuana. A questionnaire study involving 42 young men who used marijuana revealed that a significant majority experienced perceptual changes. About 90% reported minor changes such as seeing colors or objects more intensely, while approximately 50% experienced major perceptual changes, including hallucinating colors or designs. Additionally, around 40% reported hallucinogenic ideation, leading the authors to conclude that marijuana, as used by the population studied, can be considered a hallucinogen1.
Controlled Laboratory Studies on Cannabis-Induced Hallucinations
In controlled laboratory settings, the hallucinogenic effects of cannabis have been observed, albeit less frequently. A case report of a healthy 30-year-old male who inhaled vaporized cannabis containing 25 mg of THC experienced auditory and visual hallucinations. The Hallucinogen Rating Scale (HRS) scores for this case were higher in several subscales compared to other doses of cannabis and classic hallucinogens like psilocybin and salvinorin A. However, the nature of the hallucinations induced by cannabis was qualitatively different from those produced by traditional hallucinogens, suggesting a unique pharmacological mechanism2.
Comparative Analysis with Other Hallucinogens
While marijuana can induce hallucinations, its effects are generally different from those of classic hallucinogens. Typical doses of cannabis primarily alter the "feeling state" without causing frank hallucinations, unlike drugs such as LSD, which produce vivid sensory hallucinations even at low doses4. This distinction highlights that while marijuana can have hallucinogenic properties, its effects are usually less intense and more variable compared to other hallucinogens.
Association Between Marijuana Use and Hallucinogen Exposure
Research has also indicated a link between marijuana use and increased exposure to other hallucinogens. A study analyzing data from the National Household Surveys on Drug Abuse found that youths who used marijuana were significantly more likely to have opportunities to use hallucinogens and were more likely to initiate hallucinogen use once the opportunity arose. This suggests that marijuana use may be associated with a higher likelihood of encountering and using other hallucinogenic substances3.
Conclusion
In summary, marijuana can induce hallucinogenic effects, particularly in higher doses or specific contexts. While it is not as potent a hallucinogen as substances like LSD or psilocybin, it can still cause perceptual changes and hallucinations in some users. The unique nature of cannabis-induced hallucinations and its association with increased exposure to other hallucinogens underscore the complexity of its classification and effects.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic
Hallucinogenic effects of marijuana as currently used.
Marijuana, as used by young men in this study, is a hallucinogen, but this does not necessarily indicate harm or harmlessness.
Observational Study“Hallucinations” Following Acute Cannabis Dosing: A Case Report and Comparison to Other Hallucinogenic Drugs
Acute cannabis exposure in a healthy adult male can cause high-magnitude hallucinations, suggesting a unique pharmacological mechanism of action.
Case ReportExposure opportunity as a mechanism linking youth marijuana use to hallucinogen use.
Youth marijuana use is linked to increased exposure opportunities and a higher likelihood of initiating hallucinogen use compared to nonusers.
Observational StudyJimson weed toxicity: management of anticholinergic plant ingestion.
Jimson weed toxicity, a hallucinogenic plant, can cause severe anticholinergic toxicity, similar to atropine poisoning, and treatment focuses on removing plant material from the gastrointestinal tract and reversing anticholinergic sequelae.
Jimson Weed Poisoning—A Case Report
Jimson weed poisoning causes anticholinergic intoxication, with classic signs and symptoms aiding clinicians in evaluating patients.
Case ReportJimson weed toxicity: management of anticholinergic plant ingestion.
Jimson weed toxicity can result in severe anticholinergic effects, similar to atropine poisoning, and treatment focuses on removing plant material from the gastrointestinal tract and reversing anticholinergic sequelae.
Hallucinogenic drugs in pre-Columbian Mesoamerican cultures☆
Hallucinogenic substances were common in pre-Columbian Mesoamerican societies and are still used today by local shamans and healers in ritual ceremonies.
Jimson weed abuse in an Oklahoma teen.
Jimson weed abuse in teenagers and young adults can lead to dangerous anticholinergic manifestations, highlighting the importance of proper identification, understanding, and management.
The “Endless Trip” among the NPS Users: Psychopathology and Psychopharmacology in the Hallucinogen-Persisting Perception Disorder. A Systematic Review
HPPD is a syndrome characterized by prolonged perceptual symptoms, reminiscent of acute hallucinogen effects, and is associated with various psychoactive substances, including novel psychoactive substances.
Systematic Review
Highly Cited