Marijuana: The Most Used Federally Illegal Drug
Data from various sources consistently shows that marijuana, or cannabis, is the most commonly used federally illegal drug both in the U.S. and worldwide. Despite numerous states legalizing it for medical or recreational purposes, it is still classified as a Schedule I controlled substance under federal law, indicating a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use. This federal classification creates a notable contrast with the widespread use and regulated state markets.
In the U.S., recent data from 2024 indicates that over 64 million Americans used marijuana in the past year, significantly more than other illicit substances. This aligns with a long-term trend of increasing numbers of Americans reporting having tried marijuana. Globally, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has also identified cannabis users as the largest group of illicit drug users historically. A 2023 analysis reported 244 million global cannabis users, far exceeding users of other substances.
Comparison of Federally Illegal Drug Usage in the U.S. (Past Year, 2024)
| Drug | Estimated Number of Users (in 1,000s) | Global Comparison | Primary Risk | Federal Schedule |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Marijuana | 64,194 | Most widely used globally | Cognitive impairment, addiction, respiratory issues | Schedule I |
| Cocaine | 4,257 | Second most used ATS after meth | Heart attack, stroke, addiction | Schedule II |
| Methamphetamine | 2,384 | Highly addictive stimulant | Addiction, psychosis, organ damage | Schedule II |
| Ecstasy | 2,013 | Popular among young people | Heightened senses, lowered inhibitions, dangerous comedown | Schedule I |
| Heroin | 556 | Highly addictive opiate | Overdose, addiction, HIV/AIDS risk | Schedule I |
The Evolving Landscape of Marijuana Legality and Use
The increasing use of marijuana is closely tied to the shift towards state-level legalization in the U.S. As of late 2025, over half of U.S. states have legalized cannabis for medical or recreational use. This has increased accessibility and changed public perception, with many seeing it as less harmful than other illicit drugs. However, this perception can be misleading, as regular use still carries health risks, and product potency has increased significantly.
This changing legal and social landscape has significant public health implications. While legalization may bring benefits like regulated markets and tax revenue, it also raises concerns about potential increases in substance use disorders, impaired driving, and health issues from high-potency products.
Understanding the Effects and Risks of Marijuana
Marijuana use affects the mind and body. THC, the active compound, interacts with brain cells, impacting coordination, memory, and perception.
Short-term effects can include:
- Altered senses and perception
- Changes in mood
- Increased appetite
- Impaired memory and motor skills
- Anxiety or paranoia
- Increased heart rate
Long-term risks for heavy users include:
- Brain and Cognitive Impact: Regular use, especially in adolescence, is linked to lasting effects on memory, attention, and learning.
- Mental Health: Heavy use is associated with an increased risk of psychosis or schizophrenia in predisposed individuals and has been linked to depression and anxiety.
- Addiction: Approximately 3 in 10 cannabis users develop a use disorder, with higher risk for those starting before age 18.
- Respiratory Issues: Smoking cannabis exposes users to toxins, potentially leading to chronic bronchitis and inflammation.
- Cardiovascular Effects: Use can increase heart rate and blood pressure, potentially increasing the risk of heart problems.
- Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS): A rare condition in heavy users causing severe nausea and vomiting.
Conclusion: Navigating the Complexities of Marijuana Usage
Marijuana's status as the most used federally illegal drug highlights the conflict between federal law and public behavior. With millions of users globally and varied state laws in the U.S., the social and health implications are considerable. While perceptions of safety have changed with increased availability, the health risks of chronic use remain a serious concern. The ongoing debate over federal regulation aims to balance personal freedom with public health as cannabis use becomes more common. For further information, consult resources like the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) (https://nida.nih.gov/).
Note: Medical advice should be sought from a qualified healthcare professional. This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.
