What type of drug is marijuana classified as?

Marijuana is classified as a mild hallucinogen primarily because of its psychoactive properties, which can alter perception, mood, and cognition. Compounds in marijuana, such as THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), interact with the brain's cannabinoid receptors, leading to effects that can include changes in sensory perception and an altered state of consciousness.

While marijuana does have properties that can affect users in ways similar to stimulants and depressants, such as relaxation or enhanced sensory experiences, its classification as a mild hallucinogen is more accurate because of its potential to produce perceptual changes. These effects are typically less intense compared to other hallucinogens, which is why it is referred to as "mild."

This distinction helps in understanding the therapeutic and recreational use of marijuana, as well as the legal discussions surrounding it, which often focus on its altering effects rather than solely its sedative (depressant) or stimulant qualities.