Qualifying Conditions

The following conditions may make you eligible for medical cannabis in New York State:

1. Cancer
2. HIV/AIDS
3. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
4. Parkinson’s disease
5. Multiple sclerosis
6. Spinal cord injury with spasticity
7. Epilepsy
8. Inflammatory bowel disease
9. Neuropathy
10. Huntington’s disease
11. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
12. Pain that degrades health and functional capability as an alternative to opioid use
13. Substance use disorder
14. Alzheimer’s
15. Muscular dystrophy
16. Dystonia
17. Rheumatoid arthritis
18. Autism
19. Other conditions at the discretion of your healthcare provider

Note: This list is subject to change as the medical cannabis program evolves.

Cancer

Cancer is a disease characterized by the uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells in the body. There are various types of cancer, including lung, breast, prostate, colon, skin, and many others.

Cancer is a debilitating and life-threatening condition that can cause a significant physical, emotional, and financial burden on individuals and their families.

Medical marijuana has been shown to provide relief to individuals with cancer by reducing symptoms such as pain, nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite.

The active compounds in marijuana, such as delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system to produce these effects.

In addition to symptom relief, medical marijuana has also been found to have potential anti-tumor effects. Studies have shown that THC and CBD can induce cell death in various types of cancer cells, inhibit cancer cell growth, and prevent the spread of cancer cells to other parts of the body.

However, further research is needed to fully understand its effects and to develop safe and effective treatments. Individuals with cancer should discuss with their healthcare provider if medical marijuana is appropriate for them and if it can be integrated into their overall treatment plan.

HIV/AIDS

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that attacks the immune system and weakens the body’s ability to fight off infections and diseases. AIDS, or Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome, is the most advanced stage of HIV infection.

A person with AIDS has a severely damaged immune system and is at a high risk of getting illnesses that could kill them.

HIV/AIDS can cause a wide range of symptoms, including fatigue, weight loss, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, neuropathy, and others. Medical marijuana has been shown to help people with HIV/AIDS feel better by easing their pain, nausea, and vomiting, making them hungrier, and easing their nerve pain.

Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), which are the active ingredients in marijuana, work with the endocannabinoid system in the body to cause these effects.

Also, THC has been shown to make the immune systems of people with HIV/AIDS work better, but more research is needed to fully understand its effects.

But more research is needed to fully understand how it works and come up with treatments that are safe and effective. People with HIV/AIDS should talk to their marijuana doctor about whether or not medical marijuana is right for them and whether or not it can be part of their overall treatment plan.

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects the nerve cells that control voluntary muscles like those used for speaking, swallowing, and moving.

As nerve cells die, the muscles get weaker and waste away, which can lead to complete paralysis in the end. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a disease that can’t be cured, so treatment is mostly about managing symptoms and making life better.

People with Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) may be able to use medical marijuana as a treatment option because it has been shown to help with some of the symptoms of the disease. 

Here are a few ways medical marijuana can help with Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) treatment:

1. Pain relief: Many people with ALS experience significant pain and discomfort, which can be difficult to manage with traditional pain medications. Medical marijuana has been shown to be effective in reducing pain and improving overall comfort, which can be especially helpful for people with ALS.
2. Increased appetite: People with ALS often experience weight loss and malnutrition due to difficulty swallowing and digesting food. Medical marijuana can increase appetite and help people with ALS maintain a healthy weight.
3. Improved sleep: ALS can cause sleep disturbances, and people with the disease may have trouble falling and staying asleep. Medical marijuana has been shown to have a sedative effect and can improve sleep quality for people with ALS.
4. Reduced muscle spasms: Medical marijuana has been shown to reduce muscle spasms, which are common symptoms of ALS. This can help to improve mobility and reduce the risk of falls.
5. Improved mood: People with ALS can experience depression, anxiety, and other emotional distress, which can be exacerbated by the physical limitations and loss of independence associated with the disease. Medical marijuana has been shown to have an anti-anxiety effect and improve overall mood, which can be beneficial for people with ALS.

It is important to note that while medical marijuana may be beneficial for people with ALS, it is not a cure for the disease.

Also, medical marijuana should always be used with the help of a medical professional, who can help figure out the right form, dose, and schedule for its use.

Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder that causes neurons in the brain that make dopamine to die off over time. Because of this, people with Parkinson’s disease (PD) have a wide range of symptoms, such as tremors, stiffness, and trouble moving and coordinating.

While there is no cure for Parkinson’s disease (PD), several medications and treatments can help manage symptoms.

Medical marijuana has emerged as a potential treatment option for patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD). One of the active compounds in marijuana, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), has been shown to improve motor symptoms, such as tremors and rigidity, in patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD).

Also, CBD, another compound in marijuana, has been shown to help protect neurons from damage and slow the progression of Parkinson’s disease (PD).

Some studies have also shown that medical marijuana may help with non-motor symptoms, like trouble sleeping, depression, and anxiety, that are common in people with Parkinson’s disease.

Even though there is evidence that medical marijuana can help treat PD, more research is still needed to fully understand its effects and figure out the best ways to use it.

Additionally, medical marijuana may interact with other medications that PD patients take, so it is important to discuss potential risks and benefits with a healthcare provider before starting treatment.

Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves. 

Multiple sclerosis can cause a range of symptoms, including muscle weakness, difficulty with coordination and balance, fatigue, vision problems, and problems with thinking and memory.

Medical marijuana has shown promise as a treatment for some of the symptoms of Multiple sclerosis (MS). For example, it has been found to help with muscle spasms and spasticity, which are common symptoms of Multiple sclerosis.

Cannabis may also help with pain relief and reduce inflammation, which can be beneficial for people with Multiple sclerosis.

Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), one of the active ingredients in cannabis, has been shown to ease pain and relax muscles. Another active compound, cannabidiol (CBD), has been found to have anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties.

These compounds may work together to help relieve some of the symptoms of Multiple sclerosis (MS).

There is also evidence to suggest that medical marijuana can help improve sleep quality and reduce depression and anxiety in people with Multiple sclerosis (MS). These benefits are important, as sleep disturbances and mood changes are common in people with Multiple sclerosis (MS).

It is important to note that while medical marijuana has shown promise as a treatment for Multiple sclerosis (MS), it is not a cure and should not be used as a substitute for other treatments.

Before using medical marijuana, people with Multiple sclerosis (MS) should always talk to their doctor, since it may interact with other drugs and may not be right for everyone.

Spinal Cord Injury With Spasticity

Spinal cord injury, or SCI, is when the spinal cord is hurt in a way that makes it hard to move or feel. One of the most common signs of Spinal cord injury is spasticity, which is a condition that causes muscles to tighten and contract on their own.

Spasticity can vary in how bad it is, and it can cause pain, and discomfort, and even make it hard to do daily things.

Medical marijuana has been shown to help people with spinal cord injuries who have spasticity. Cannabinoids are chemicals found in marijuana that interact with the endocannabinoid system in the body. This system helps control muscle tone and movement.

Some of the cannabinoids in marijuana, like tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), have been shown to reduce muscle stiffness and improve overall mobility.

In some studies, patients who used medical marijuana said that their spasticity symptoms got a lot better. It has also been found that using medical marijuana to treat spasticity is safe and well-tolerated, with few side effects. 

Patients have said that they are sleeping better, moving around more, and feeling less pain and discomfort. Medical marijuana may also help with other symptoms of a spinal cord injury, like chronic pain, muscle spasms, and depression.

However, it is important to remember that, while medical marijuana has shown promise in treating spasticity caused by a spinal cord injury, it is not a cure. 

Patients should talk to their doctors and other medical professionals to find out if medical marijuana is a good option for them.

Epilepsy

Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures or convulsions. These seizures are caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain. They can cause a wide range of symptoms, such as losing consciousness, twitching muscles, and strange feelings. Epilepsy can be a debilitating condition that makes life hard for people who have it.

Medical marijuana has shown promise as a treatment option for individuals with epilepsy. Cannabinoids, which are the active ingredients in marijuana, have been shown to decrease the number and severity of seizures in some people. 

It is thought that this is because they can change how neurons in the brain work and how the immune system works.

In the past few years, there have been a number of clinical trials to test how well medical marijuana works to treat epilepsy. The results of these trials have been encouraging, with many patients saying that they had fewer seizures and felt better overall.

Medical marijuana may help with more than just reducing the number of seizures. It may also help with other symptoms of epilepsy, like anxiety and depression. Some studies have shown that cannabis-based treatments can help reduce anxiety and improve mood in patients with epilepsy.

Even though these trials had some positive results, more research is still needed to fully understand how medical marijuana affects epilepsy and figure out the best dose and form of treatment.

It’s important to remember that medical marijuana should only be used under the supervision of a qualified medical professional and in accordance with the laws and rules of your state.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) refers to a group of chronic conditions that cause inflammation in the digestive tract, including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. IBD can cause a range of symptoms, including abdominal pain, diarrhea, rectal bleeding, weight loss, and fatigue.

It has been shown that medical marijuana can help treat IBD by easing symptoms and lowering inflammation in the digestive tract. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) are the two primary compounds found in medical marijuana that have been found to have therapeutic benefits for IBD patients.

THC has been found to relieve abdominal pain, stimulate appetite, and reduce nausea. CBD, on the other hand, has been found to reduce inflammation, which is a major contributor to the symptoms of IBD. 

CBD has also been found to have antipsychotic effects, which make it less likely for IBD patients to feel anxious or sad.

Medical marijuana can be taken in many different ways, such as by smoking, vaping, eating edibles, or putting it on the skin. However, the best method of consumption will depend on the individual’s symptoms and preferences. 

It is important to talk to a doctor who is familiar with medical marijuana to figure out the best way for each person to use it.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy is a condition that affects the nerves and causes pain, numbness, and tingling. There are many different types of neuropathy, and it can be caused by a variety of factors such as diabetes, injury, or autoimmune diseases.

It has been shown that medical marijuana is a good way to treat neuropathy because it can help with chronic pain and reduce inflammation.

Some of the chemicals in medical marijuana, like THC and CBD, work with the body’s endocannabinoid system to control pain and reduce inflammation.

CBD, in particular, has been shown to be a strong anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective agent, and animal studies have shown that it can help treat neuropathic pain.

Studies have shown that medical marijuana is an effective treatment for neuropathy, and it has been used to treat a variety of neuropathic conditions such as diabetic neuropathy, postherpetic neuralgia, and peripheral neuropathy.

Patients who use medical marijuana to treat neuropathy say that their symptoms get much better, like less pain, better sleep, and an overall better quality of life.

One of the benefits of using medical marijuana to treat neuropathy is that it is generally well-tolerated and has fewer side effects compared to traditional pain medications.

Medical marijuana has also been shown to help people with neuropathic pain who don’t respond to other treatments. This makes it a good option for people who haven’t gotten better with other treatments.

Huntington’s disease

Huntington’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects movement, behavior, and cognition. It is caused by a genetic mutation that results in the death of nerve cells in the brain. Symptoms of the disease include movements that can’t be stopped, trouble with coordination and balance, depression, and a loss of mental ability.

Patients with Huntington’s disease may be able to get better with the help of medical marijuana.

Cannabinoids, the active compounds in marijuana, have been found to have neuroprotective effects, meaning they can help protect nerve cells from damage and death. This can help alleviate some of the symptoms associated with Huntington’s disease.

One of the most promising ways that medical marijuana can help with Huntington’s disease is by reducing the frequency and severity of involuntary movements.

When cannabidiol (CBD) was given to animals with Huntington’s disease-like symptoms, the number of these movements decreased. In another study that looked at people, it was found that using medical marijuana reduced the severity of these movements by about 40%.

Also, people with Huntington’s disease who use medical marijuana have been found to have better moods and better brain function.

CBD has been shown to have anti-anxiety and anti-depressant effects, which can help improve the patient’s mood and overall quality of life. 

THC, another compound found in marijuana, has been found to have positive effects on memory and learning in patients with Huntington’s disease.

It’s important to keep in mind that more research is needed to fully understand how medical marijuana can help people with Huntington’s disease. But the evidence we have so far suggests that medical marijuana may have the potential to help people with this debilitating condition feel better.

As with any new treatment, people should talk to their doctor to find out if medical marijuana is a good choice for them.

Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental illness that can happen to someone who has been through or seen a traumatic event. It has a number of symptoms, such as unwanted thoughts and memories, avoiding reminders of the traumatic event, changes in mood and thoughts, and changes in how the body and mind react.

People with PTSD may experience depression, anxiety, and difficulty sleeping, among other symptoms.

Medical marijuana has been explored as a potential treatment for PTSD in recent years. Even though there isn’t a lot of research on the subject yet, some studies suggest that some parts of cannabis, like CBD and THC, may help treat PTSD symptoms.

One study found that patients with PTSD who used medical marijuana reported reduced symptoms of anxiety, nightmares, and sleep disturbance.

Also, studies have shown that PTSD patients who use medical marijuana have less hyperarousal and a better quality of life overall.

However, it is important to note that more research is needed to fully understand the effects of medical marijuana on PTSD as well as to determine the best way to use it for treatment.

Also, not all people with PTSD will respond well to medical marijuana, so it’s important to talk to a doctor about the possible benefits and risks before starting treatment.

Substance Use Disorder

Substance use disorder, which is also called addiction, is a complex condition in which a person uses a substance over and over again even though it hurts their physical, mental, and social health.

Substance use disorder affects millions of people around the world and is linked to a number of bad things, such as poor health, less work, strained relationships, and a higher chance of getting hurt or dying by accident.

Medical marijuana has shown promise as a way to treat substance use disorders. It helps people deal with their cravings, eases withdrawal symptoms, and makes it more likely that they will be able to stay clean.

Some research suggests that the chemicals in marijuana, such as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), may help reduce the symptoms of addiction by changing how the brain processes and feels pleasure.

For example, some studies have shown that medical marijuana can reduce the severity of opioid withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, irritability, and insomnia, which can be a major barrier to recovery for those with opioid use disorder.

Other studies have found that medical marijuana may help reduce the cravings that come with substance use disorders. This makes it easier for people to stay away from drugs and alcohol.

Despite the promising results of these studies, it is important to note that medical marijuana is not a cure for substance use disorder and should not be used as a sole treatment for addiction. Medical marijuana is usually used as part of a full treatment plan that also includes therapy, counseling, and other interventions that have been shown to work.

Patients should also know that using marijuana can cause side effects like memory loss, less coordination, and a higher risk of becoming addicted. It should be used with care and under the supervision of a doctor.

Alzheimer’s

Alzheimer’s disease is a neurodegenerative disorder that affects a person’s memory and cognitive abilities. It is the most common cause of dementia, a decline in cognitive function severe enough to affect a person’s daily life.

Alzheimer’s typically affects people over the age of 65, and its symptoms progress over time. The exact cause of Alzheimer’s is not yet known, but it is thought to involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors.

Medical marijuana has shown promise in treating Alzheimer’s disease symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and insomnia. The active compounds in marijuana, called cannabinoids, interact with the endocannabinoid system in the brain, which is responsible for regulating mood, appetite, and memory.

Cannabidiol (CBD), one of the main ingredients in medical marijuana, has been found to protect nerve cells. It may also slow the progression of Alzheimer’s by reducing the formation of amyloid plaques in the brain, which are a sign of the disease.

Aside from protecting the brain, medical marijuana has also been shown to ease pain and help people sleep better. Many people with Alzheimer’s have trouble sleeping and live with constant pain, which can be hard to treat with traditional medicines. 

Medical marijuana has been shown to ease pain and help people sleep better, which can improve their quality of life and help them deal with their conditions.

It is also important to work with a qualified healthcare provider when using medical marijuana, as it can interact with other medications and have side effects.

Muscular Dystrophy

Muscular Dystrophy is a group of genetic diseases that progressively weaken and degenerate the muscles used for movement, leading to disability and a loss of independence.

There are several types of muscular dystrophy, each affecting different muscle groups and showing different progression patterns, but all share the common feature of muscle wasting.

The disease can be diagnosed in childhood, adolescence, or adulthood and varies in severity, but can eventually lead to complete immobility.

Muscular dystrophy has no cure right now, so treatment is mostly about managing symptoms, keeping people mobile, and making life better. Traditional treatments for muscular dystrophy include physical therapy, medication, braces, and mobility aids.

In recent years, medical marijuana has become a possible treatment for muscular dystrophy because it is said to help with the symptoms of the disease. Cannabinoids are chemicals in medical marijuana that work with the body’s endocannabinoid system to help people feel better.

One of the most common symptoms of muscular dystrophy is chronic pain and muscle spasms, which can be incredibly debilitating and affect the quality of life for patients. Medical marijuana has been shown to be effective in reducing pain and muscle spasms, as well as reducing inflammation and promoting relaxation.

Medical marijuana has also been shown to help people with muscular dystrophy, who often have trouble sleeping or don’t sleep at all, sleep better. Improved sleep can lead to increased energy levels, an improved mood, and a reduction in symptoms related to fatigue and muscle weakness.

Medical marijuana may also help with managing anxiety and depression, which are common in patients with muscular dystrophy.

Compounds in medical marijuana can help control a person’s mood and make them feel more relaxed, which can improve their mental health as a whole.

Dystonia

Dystonia is a neurological movement disorder characterized by sustained muscle contractions, often leading to repetitive, twisting, and often painful movements or postures. Dystonia can affect a single muscle, a muscle group, or an entire body segment.

Dystonia’s exact cause is not known, but it is thought to be caused by an imbalance in how the brain controls the tone of muscles.

Medical cannabis, which is another name for medical marijuana, has been shown to have therapeutic potential for treating dystonia symptoms.

Cannabinoids, the active compounds found in marijuana, are known to have anti-spasmodic effects, which can help to reduce muscle spasms and ease muscle pain.

In particular, the cannabidiol (CBD) compound has been shown to reduce dystonia symptoms in a big way.

Studies have shown that medical marijuana can help reduce the frequency and intensity of muscle spasms in patients with dystonia, leading to improved quality of life and mobility.

Medical cannabis has also been shown to have anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects, which can help slow the progression of the disease and stop further muscle damage.

Also, marijuana is known to have pain-relieving properties, which can be helpful for dystonia patients who have constant pain.

Medical marijuana is often used as a complementary therapy to traditional dystonia treatments, such as medication, physical therapy, and botulinum toxin injections. Patients should talk to their healthcare provider before using medical marijuana to make sure it is safe and right for their needs.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes inflammation and damage to the joints and other parts of the body. It is characterized by pain, stiffness, and swelling in the joints, and can cause significant disability and a decreased quality of life for those affected.

There is no cure for RA yet, and most people are treated with a mix of medicine and changes to their lifestyles.

Medical marijuana has shown potential as a treatment option for RA. Research has shown that the active compounds in marijuana, such as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), can help reduce inflammation and pain, as well as improve sleep and overall quality of life.

Some studies on people have also shown positive results, with patients saying that medical marijuana helped them feel less pain and sleep better.

In a 2018 study, patients with RA who used medical marijuana reported a significant decrease in pain, morning stiffness, and the need for other pain medications.

It’s important to note that while medical marijuana may help manage symptoms of RA, it should not be used as a substitute for conventional treatments, as more research is needed to fully understand its effects.

Also, it’s important to talk to a doctor before using medical marijuana because it might interact with other drugs and have side effects that need to be considered.

Autism

Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder that impairs communication and social skills. It is a complex condition that affects individuals differently and can range from mild to severe. Autism’s exact cause is not known, but it is thought that both genetics and the environment play a role.

People with autism have used medical marijuana as a treatment to help them deal with some of the symptoms of their condition.

Research has shown that medical marijuana can help treat autism symptoms like anxiety, seizures, and insomnia.

Medical marijuana has chemicals in it called cannabinoids that work with the body’s endocannabinoid system. This system is in charge of controlling bodily functions like sleeping, eating, and feeling pain.

By interacting with the endocannabinoid system, medical marijuana can help reduce anxiety and seizures in individuals with autism.

Medical marijuana has also been shown to help people with autism sleep better at night. It works by increasing the levels of the neurotransmitter GABA, which helps calm the brain and promote relaxation.

People with autism can sleep better and be healthier overall if they have less trouble sleeping.

In addition to these benefits, medical marijuana has also been shown to help people with autism deal with the symptoms of being aggressive and hurting themselves. 

These actions can be very upsetting for people with autism, as well as for their families and caretakers. By reducing the frequency and severity of these behaviors, medical marijuana can help improve the quality of life for individuals with autism.

Even though medical marijuana has shown promise in treating autism symptoms, more research is needed to fully understand how it works and if it is safe.

Before using medical marijuana to treat autism, it’s important to talk to a doctor, just like you would with any other medical treatment.

Other conditions at the discretion of your healthcare provider

The decision to use medical marijuana for a specific condition is at the discretion of the healthcare provider. They will consider the patient’s medical history, symptoms, and other factors when determining if medical marijuana is an appropriate treatment option.

If a patient’s condition does not meet the criteria for a qualifying condition, the healthcare provider may still be able to make a recommendation for medical marijuana if they believe it would be beneficial for the patient’s symptoms.

It’s important for patients and their doctors to talk openly and honestly about the possible benefits and risks of using medical marijuana as a treatment.

It is important to note that while medical marijuana may have potential benefits for certain medical conditions, it is not a cure-all and may not be effective for everyone.