Qualifying Conditions

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, leading to muscle weakness, loss of motor control, and eventually paralysis. As the disease advances, it can also impact speech, swallowing, and breathing.

Medical marijuana has shown promise in alleviating some of the symptoms associated with ALS. It may help manage muscle spasticity, reduce pain, improve sleep, and alleviate anxiety. Certain compounds in marijuana, such as THC and CBD, have neuroprotective properties that may support overall comfort and quality of life for those living with ALS, although it’s not a cure.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental condition that affects social interaction, communication, and behavior. It varies widely in severity and symptoms, and individuals with autism may also experience sensory sensitivities, anxiety, and difficulties with focus or impulsivity.

Medical marijuana, particularly CBD (cannabidiol), has been studied for its potential benefits in managing some of these symptoms. It may help reduce anxiety, improve sleep, and address behavioral issues like aggression or irritability. Some studies suggest that it may also help with sensory processing challenges and increase focus. While not a cure, medical marijuana could provide an alternative or complement to traditional treatments.

Cancer is a broad term for a group of diseases characterized by uncontrolled cell growth, which can form tumors and spread to other parts of the body. There are many types of cancer, including breast, lung, prostate, colorectal, and blood cancers like leukemia, each with its own set of symptoms and treatment protocols.

Medical marijuana, particularly compounds like THC and CBD, is often used to manage symptoms associated with cancer and its treatments. It can help alleviate pain, reduce nausea and vomiting from chemotherapy, stimulate appetite, and improve sleep. Even after remission, medical marijuana may be beneficial for managing chronic pain, anxiety, depression, and lingering effects of treatment like neuropathy or insomnia. While it doesn't cure cancer, it can improve quality of life by offering relief from these ongoing symptoms.

Dementia is a general term for a decline in cognitive function, affecting memory, thinking, and the ability to perform everyday tasks. Alzheimer's disease is the most common type, but dementia also includes conditions like vascular dementia, frontotemporal dementia, and Lewy body dementia, each with distinct symptoms but often overlapping characteristics such as confusion, mood changes, and difficulty with communication.

Medical marijuana, especially CBD and THC, has been explored for its potential to alleviate some symptoms of dementia. It may help reduce agitation, anxiety, and aggression, which are common in individuals with dementia. Additionally, it can promote better sleep and improve appetite, both of which tend to be affected in people with cognitive decline.

Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures, which are caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain. Seizures can vary widely in severity, from brief lapses in awareness to intense convulsions, and may be triggered by various factors, including genetics, brain injury, or underlying medical conditions.

Medical marijuana, particularly CBD (cannabidiol), has shown significant promise in reducing the frequency and intensity of seizures in some individuals with epilepsy, especially those who don’t respond well to traditional anti-seizure medications. CBD is thought to have anticonvulsant properties, helping to stabilize electrical activity in the brain. Studies have shown its effectiveness in treating certain types of epilepsy, including Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome. While not a cure, medical marijuana can be a valuable part of a treatment plan for managing epilepsy symptoms and improving quality of life.

Incurable neurodegenerative diseases are conditions in which the progressive degeneration of the brain or nervous system leads to a gradual loss of function. These diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), often result in cognitive decline, motor impairments, and other debilitating symptoms that worsen over time.

Medical marijuana, particularly cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), has shown promise in alleviating some of the symptoms of these diseases. It may help manage pain, reduce inflammation, ease muscle spasms, improve sleep, and reduce anxiety or depression commonly associated with neurodegenerative conditions. While it doesn't halt the progression of these diseases, medical marijuana can improve quality of life by addressing specific symptoms and providing relief.

For a comprehensive list of neurodegenerative diseases which qualify under the Compassionate Use Program, you can visit The Texas Administrative Code website.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system, causing the immune system to attack the protective covering of nerve fibers, known as myelin. This damage disrupts communication between the brain and the rest of the body, leading to symptoms like muscle weakness, coordination problems, numbness, vision issues, and fatigue.

Medical marijuana, particularly CBD and THC, has been shown to help manage several MS-related symptoms. It may reduce muscle spasticity, alleviate pain, improve sleep, and reduce inflammation. Some studies also suggest it can help with bladder dysfunction and improve mood, addressing the anxiety or depression that can accompany the disease. While it doesn't cure MS, medical marijuana can be a valuable tool in symptom management, offering relief and improving overall quality of life for those living with MS. 

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can occur after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. Symptoms include flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety, hypervigilance, and emotional numbness. PTSD can significantly impact daily life, relationships, and overall well-being.

Medical marijuana, particularly CBD and THC, has been shown to help alleviate some of the symptoms of PTSD. It may reduce anxiety, promote better sleep, decrease hyperarousal, and help with mood regulation. THC can provide relaxation and help with intrusive thoughts, while CBD has calming effects and may assist in emotional processing. While medical marijuana isn’t a cure, it can be a useful part of managing PTSD symptoms and improving quality of life.

If you don’t already have a PTSD diagnosis and are considering medical marijuana as a treatment option, Texas Medical Marijuana Doctors can help by connecting you with a qualified psychiatrist for diagnosis and guidance through the process.

Spasticity is a condition characterized by muscle stiffness and uncontrollable muscle spasms, often caused by neurological conditions like multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, or spinal cord injuries. These spasms can be painful, limit mobility, and interfere with daily activities.

Medical marijuana, particularly THC and CBD, has shown potential in reducing spasticity symptoms. THC can help relax muscles, providing relief from spasms, while CBD may reduce inflammation and help with pain management. Both compounds can promote better sleep and alleviate anxiety associated with chronic spasticity. While not a cure, medical marijuana can be an effective part of a treatment plan to manage spasticity and improve quality of life.