In a move that has sparked significant pushback from researchers and cannabis advocates, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) recently promoted the claim that marijuana may be more likely to cause psychosis than methamphetamine.
The statement appeared in a DEA publication and presentation titled “Growing Threats,” where the agency highlighted what it believes are emerging public health concerns. In it, officials argued that frequent marijuana use could increase the likelihood of developing psychotic disorders, potentially at rates higher than meth.
This claim is drawing sharp criticism from medical experts, addiction specialists, and reform advocates who argue that the DEA is misrepresenting existing science. Critics say there is no strong clinical evidence to suggest that cannabis poses a greater psychosis risk than methamphetamine, a powerful stimulant long associated with extreme psychiatric side effects, including hallucinations and paranoia.
While some studies have shown that high doses of THC may be linked to increased risk of psychosis in vulnerable individuals—especially those with a personal or family history of mental illness—experts say equating that risk to or above meth use is misleading and not supported by comparative research.
The controversy comes at a sensitive time for federal agencies. The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) recently recommended that cannabis be rescheduled from Schedule I to Schedule III under the Controlled Substances Act, citing its accepted medical use and lower abuse potential. Meanwhile, the DEA is weighing whether to approve that recommendation.
Advocates argue that statements like the one in the DEA’s report reflect outdated narratives used to justify continued prohibition and fuel stigma, rather than informing the public with balanced, evidence-based health information.
The growing body of cannabis research emphasizes the need for nuanced conversations—acknowledging risks for certain users without overstating harm or denying legitimate medical benefits. As federal cannabis policy evolves, advocates are calling for agencies like the DEA to follow the science, not fear-based messaging.
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