Your Comprehensive Guide to Medical Marijuana in Louisiana: Legalities, Access, and Patient Information
Medical marijuana has been legal in Louisiana since 2015, providing a new avenue of treatment for patients with a variety of medical conditions. This guide will provide you with all the information you need to understand the legalities, access, and patient information related to medical marijuana in Louisiana.
Is Medical Marijuana Legal In Louisiana?
Yes, medical marijuana is legal in Louisiana.
Louisiana’s journey to legalize medical marijuana began with the passage of Senate Bill 143 in 2015, signed into law by Governor Bobby Jindal. This bill, officially known as the Alison Neustrom Act, was a significant step toward providing legal access to medical marijuana for patients with specific medical conditions.
Key Aspects of Senate Bill 143
- Qualifying Conditions: Initially, the bill allowed medical marijuana use for patients suffering from debilitating medical conditions such as cancer, HIV/AIDS, spasticity disorders, seizure disorders, and Crohn’s disease.
- Regulatory Framework: The bill outlined a regulatory framework for the production, distribution, and use of medical marijuana. This included the establishment of state-licensed cultivation and distribution facilities overseen by the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners and the Department of Agriculture and Forestry.
- Non-Smokable Forms: The original legislation permitted only non-smokable forms of medical marijuana, such as oils, pills, and topicals, to be used by patients.
Subsequent Expansions and Reforms
The initial framework set by Senate Bill 143 has been expanded and reformed over the years to improve access and protections for patients:
- Expansion of Qualifying Conditions: Additional conditions have been added to the list of qualifying medical issues, allowing more patients to benefit from medical marijuana. Conditions now include PTSD, glaucoma, severe muscle spasms, and chronic pain, among many others. Click this link to review the Louisiana medical marijuana qualifying conditions list.
- Form of Marijuana: Revisions to the law now allow for the use of smokable forms of medical marijuana, which was a significant change to the original restrictions.
- Increased Dispensaries: The number of state-licensed dispensaries has been increased to ensure better access for patients across the state. There are currently nine operational dispensaries (NORML).
- Employment Protections: New laws have been enacted to protect patients from employment discrimination based on their status as registered medical marijuana users (NORML).
- Decriminalization: Small amounts of marijuana possession have been decriminalized, reducing penalties and removing the threat of arrest for minor offenses.
Impact and Current Status
The legalization and subsequent reforms of Louisiana’s medical marijuana program represent a significant shift in the state’s approach to cannabis. These changes have provided much-needed relief to patients, increased accessibility, and ensured that patients are protected under the law.
For more detailed information on the specific legislative changes and the current state of the program, you can refer to resources such as the Louisiana Department of Health, NORML.
How to Get a Medical Marijuana Card in Louisiana
Unlike other states, Louisiana does not require patients to obtain a hard copy/physical medical marijuana card. Instead, patients receive a ‘recommendation’ from a licensed physician, which they can then take to a licensed pharmacy to purchase medical marijuana.
Patients are required by the state’s medical marijuana program to complete the following steps:
- Schedule an evaluation with a state-certified Louisiana medical marijuana doctor! Scheduling takes place here at MMJ.
- Select a medical marijuana pharmacy in Louisiana to enroll in! Once you have selected the pharmacy location, the evaluating doctor will fax the 12 month medical marijuana recommendation to the pharmacy.
- Once the pharmacy receives the doctor’s medical marijuana recommendation form, the pharmacy will enroll you. The pharmacy contacts each patient and notifies them that they are able to visit the pharmacy and complete their Louisiana medical marijuana purchase!
In 3 easy steps, and one appointment fee of $149.99, the patient is fully enrolled in the Louisiana medical marijuana program and can legal purchase and possess medical marijuana. Patients can click this link to schedule their telemedicine appointment.
Qualifying conditions for Medical marijuana in Louisiana
As of 2020, any condition a physician considers debilitating to an individual patient can qualify for medical marijuana use. This includes but is not limited to conditions such as cancer, epilepsy, glaucoma, Parkinson’s disease, and post-traumatic stress disorder. For a list of most commonly approved medical conditions in Louisiana, click this link.
Can I Apply For A Medical Marijuana Recommendation In Louisiana Online if I am a resident?
Absolutely! The application of telemedicine allows a Louisiana resident to apply for their Louisiana medical cannabis card online or over the phone at MMJ.com. Patients can choose a telephone call or video conference appointment when scheduling their MMJ.com appointment. Our staff of medical marijuana doctors in Louisiana are available 7 days a week!
What are the costs and requirements to get a medical marijuana recommendation in Louisiana?
The total cost to schedule the appointment and receive the 12 month medical marijuana recommendation is $149.99 at www.MMJ.com. We also offer a 100% money back guarantee if not approved for the medical cannabis card in LA.
The requirements are pretty straightforward:
- Patients must be 18 years of age or older.
- Patients must be able to provide proof of Louisiana residency.
- Patients must have one or more qualifying medical condition. A list of qualifying medical conditions can be found here.
How old do I need to be to get a medical marijuana recommendation in Louisiana?
There is no age limit for medical marijuana recommendations in Louisiana. However, patients under the age of 18 must have a legal guardian present during their consultation and a caregiver would be required to pick up the medication and deliver it to the minor patient.
Can You Grow Medical Marijuana In Louisiana?
No, it is currently illegal to grow medical marijuana at home in Louisiana. Medical marijuana must be purchased from a licensed pharmacy. Source
What are the limits for medical marijuana in Louisiana?
There are no specific possession limits for medical marijuana in Louisiana. However, patients are only allowed to purchase a 30-day supply at a time. Source
Is Medical Marijuana Legal In Louisiana?
Yes, medical marijuana is legal in Louisiana. The state legalized the use of medical marijuana in 2015 with the enactment of Senate Bill 143, also known as the Alison Neustrom Act. This legislation allows patients with certain qualifying conditions to use medical marijuana as a form of treatment. However, it’s important to note that the law does not permit the smoking of marijuana. Instead, patients can consume medical marijuana in non-smokable forms such as oils, extracts, tinctures, sprays, capsules, pills, and edible forms. [1]
Your Comprehensive Guide to Medical Marijuana in Louisiana: Legalities, Access, and Patient Information
While medical marijuana is legal in Louisiana, there are specific rules and regulations that patients, caregivers, and providers must follow. The Louisiana Department of Health oversees the state’s medical marijuana program and ensures that all parties comply with the law.
Patients must have a recommendation from a licensed physician who is registered with the state’s medical marijuana program. The physician must diagnose the patient with one of the qualifying conditions outlined by the state. Once the patient has received a recommendation, they can purchase medical marijuana from one of the state-licensed dispensaries.
How to Get a Medical Marijuana Card in Louisiana
Currently, Louisiana does not issue medical marijuana cards. Instead, patients receive a 12 month medical marijuana recommendation from the MMJ.com physician, which they can then use to purchase medical marijuana from a licensed dispensary. The recommendation must be renewed annually or every 12 months. Patients can visit MMJ.com or click this link to schedule the appointment.
Qualifying conditions for Medical marijuana cards in Louisiana
There are several qualifying conditions for medical marijuana use in Louisiana. These include cancer, glaucoma, Parkinson’s disease, HIV/AIDS, epilepsy, Crohn’s disease, muscular dystrophy, and multiple sclerosis, among others. The full list of qualifying conditions can be found on our Louisiana Medical Marijuana Qualifying Medical Conditions Page.
Can I Apply For A Medical Marijuana Card In Louisiana Online if I am a resident?
Yes, Louisiana residents are able to apply online to receive their medical marijuana recommendation from a MMJ.com physician.
What are the costs and requirements to get marijuana card online in Louisiana?
The total cost of the MMJ.com evaluation and 12 month medical marijuana card is $149.99. The evolutions are completed by telemedicine. Patients can choose between a telephone call or a video conference at the appointment time.
Local Medical Marijuana Pharmacies in Louisiana List:
Region 1 ~ Metropolitan – H & W Drug Store, Inc. d/b/a H & W Drug Store, located at 1667 Tchoupitoulas Street, Suite B in New Orleans, La. 70130-1852. Telephone: (504) 301-2363.
Region 1 ~ Metropolitan – H & W Drug Store, Inc. d/b/a H & W Drug Store, located at 5055 Veterans Memorial Blvd in Metairie, LA 70006-5120. Telephone: (504) 301-2363.
Region 2 ~ Capitol – Capitol Wellness Solutions, LLC d/b/a Capitol Wellness Solutions, located at 7491 Picardy Avenue in Baton Rouge, La. 70809-3536. Telephone: (225) 800-9420.
Region 3 ~ Teche – Green Leaf Dispensary, LLC d/b/a Green Leaf Dispensary, located at 6048 W. Park Avenue in Houma, La. 70364-1808. Telephone: (985) 360-3372.
Region 4 ~ Acadian – The Apothecary Shoppe, LLC d/b/a The Apothecary Shoppe, located at 620 Guilbeau Road, Suite A in Lafayette, La. 70506-8709. Telephone: (337) 345-4500.
Region 5 ~ Southwest – Medicis, LLC d/b/a Medicis, located at 1727 Imperial Blvd., Building 4 in Lake Charles, La. 70605-5362. Telephone: (337) 420-8420.
Region 6 ~ Central – The Medicine Cabinet Pharmacy, LLC d/b/a The Medicine Cabinet Pharmacy, located at 403 Bolton Avenue in Alexandria, La. 71301-7026. Telephone: (318) 545-4460.
Region 7 ~ Northwest – Hope Pharmacy, LLC d/b/a Hope Pharmacy, located at 1410 Kings Highway, Suite A in Shreveport, La. 71103-4227. Telephone: (318) 585-0420.
Region 8 ~ Northeast – Delta Medmar, LLC d/b/a Delta Medmar, located at 1707 McKeen Place in Monroe, La. 71201-4421. Telephone: (318) 855-3373.
Region 9 ~ Southeast – Willow Pharmacy, LLC d/b/a Willow Pharmacy, located at 69090 Highway 190 Service Road in Covington, La. 70433-5121. Telephone: (985) 792-2391.
How old do I need to be to get a medical marijuana card in Louisiana?
There is no age limit for medical marijuana use in Louisiana. However, patients under the age of 18 must have a caregiver who is at least 21 years old. The caregiver must also receive a recommendation from a registered physician. [2]
Can You Grow Medical Marijuana In Louisiana?
No, it is not legal to grow medical marijuana at home in Louisiana. Medical marijuana must be purchased from a state-licensed medical marijuana pharmacy. [2]
What are the limits for medical marijuana cards in Louisiana?
As Louisiana does not issue medical marijuana cards, there are no specific limits associated with a card. However, a physician determines the appropriate dosage for each patient, and patients can only purchase a 30-day supply of medical marijuana at a time. [2]
How to Get a Medical Marijuana Card in Louisiana
Obtaining a medical marijuana card in Louisiana is a process that involves several steps. This guide will walk you through the process, providing you with the necessary information to make the journey as smooth as possible.
Understand the Legalities
Step 1. Before you begin the process, it’s important to understand the legalities surrounding medical marijuana in Louisiana. Medical marijuana was legalized in Louisiana in 2015, but it wasn’t until 2019 that the first dispensaries opened their doors. The Louisiana Department of Health oversees the state’s medical marijuana program. For more information, you can visit their website.
Check Your Eligibility
Step 2. The state has a vast list of qualifying medical conditions, patients are required by law to have at least one medical condition. These conditions include cancer, epilepsy, glaucoma, Parkinson’s disease, and PTSD, among others. You can find the full list of qualifying conditions on the Louisiana Medical Marijuana Conditions Page.
Consult with an MMJ.com Physician
Step 3. If you have a qualifying condition, the next step is to consult with a physician who is registered with the state’s medical marijuana program. At MMJ.com, our staff of Louisiana medical marijuana doctors are online and can complete the required evaluation over the telephone or by video chat.
Scheduling at MMJ.com is fast and easy, only costing $149.99. MMJ.com also offers a 100% money back guarantee if the patient is not approved!
Schedule an appointment to begin your Louisiana medical cannabis journey.
Select A Medical Marijuana Pharmacy In Louisiana
Step 4. After the appointment concludes, you will be sent a list of Louisiana medical marijuana dispensaries. You must choose a pharmacy to enroll in. Once the pharmacy is selected, the MMJ doctor will fax the 12 month medical marijuana recommendation to the pharmacy.
Visit The Medical Cannabis Pharmacy
Step 5. The pharmacy will contact you by text or telephone call confirming you are enrolled and can visit the pharmacy whenever it is convenient for you!
Qualifying Conditions for Medical Marijuana Cards in Louisiana
Medical marijuana has been legal in Louisiana since 2015, providing a new avenue of treatment for patients with certain qualifying conditions. The state has a specific list of conditions that are eligible for treatment with medical marijuana, as outlined by the Louisiana Department of Health.
Qualifying Conditions
According to the Louisiana Department of Health, the following conditions may qualify a patient for a medical marijuana card. This is only some of the many medical conditions that may qualify a patient to enroll in the Louisiana medical cannabis program!
Medical cannabis is used to treat a variety of medical conditions in Louisiana. Here is a comprehensive list of conditions for which medical cannabis is commonly recommended:
Chronic Pain
- Fibromyalgia
- Arthritis
- Neuropathic pain
- Cancer-related pain
Neurological and Mental Health Disorders
- Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
- Epilepsy and Seizure Disorders
- Parkinson’s Disease
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Anxiety
- Depression
Gastrointestinal Disorders
- Crohn’s Disease
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
- Ulcerative Colitis
Cancer Symptoms and Treatment Side Effects
- Nausea and Vomiting (especially related to chemotherapy)
- Appetite Loss
- Cachexia (wasting syndrome)
Autoimmune Disorders
- Lupus
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Psoriasis
Sleep Disorders
- Insomnia
- Sleep Apnea
HIV/AIDS
- Appetite Loss
- Weight Loss
- Pain
Movement Disorders
- Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)
- Tremors
Severe and Persistent Muscle Spasms
- Spasticity (especially associated with MS or spinal cord injury)
Other Conditions
- Glaucoma
- Severe, Chronic Migraines
- Hepatitis C (treatment side effects)
- Tourette Syndrome
- Severe Autism (particularly in cases with aggressive behaviors)
Specific Pediatric Conditions
- Dravet Syndrome
- Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome
Sources:
It’s important to note that this list is not exhaustive. The state allows physicians to recommend medical marijuana for any patient with a debilitating condition if they believe the patient may benefit from such treatment.
Can I Apply For A Medical Marijuana Card In Louisiana Online if I am a resident?
Yes, residents of Louisiana can apply for a medical marijuana card online at MMJ.com. The Louisiana Department of Health has established a Medical Marijuana Program that allows eligible patients to apply for a medical marijuana card online. This program is designed to provide safe and legal access to medical marijuana for patients with qualifying conditions.
Online Application Process For Medical Marijuana In Louisiana
The online application process for a medical marijuana card in Louisiana is straightforward and convenient. It involves the following steps:
- Consultation with a Louisiana-licensed physician who is registered with the state’s Medical Marijuana Program. This can be done online through the telemedicine service at MMJ.com.
- If the Louisiana MMJ physician determines that you have a qualifying condition, they will recommend you for medical marijuana treatment.
- After you have been approved, you will select the medical cannabis pharmacy to enroll in.
Benefits of Applying Online
Applying for a medical marijuana card online offers several benefits. It’s a convenient option that allows you to apply from the comfort of your own home, saving you time and travel expenses. The online application process is also faster, as it eliminates the need for paper forms and postal mail. Furthermore, the online system allows you to track the status of your application in real time.
In conclusion, if you are a resident of Louisiana and have a qualifying condition, you can apply for a medical marijuana card online at www.MMJ.com. This provides a convenient and efficient way to access medical marijuana treatment.
What are the limits for medical marijuana cards in Louisiana?
Medical marijuana has been legal in Louisiana since 2015, but the state has set specific limits and regulations for its use. Understanding these limits is crucial for patients seeking to use medical marijuana for their health conditions. This guide will provide an overview of the limits for medical marijuana cards in Louisiana.
Quantity Limits
According to the Louisiana Department of Health, patients with a medical marijuana card are allowed to purchase a 30-day supply of medical marijuana at a time. The exact amount of this supply is determined by the recommending physician. However, it’s important to note that the state does not allow the smoking of marijuana. The available forms of medical marijuana include oils, extracts, tinctures, sprays, capsules, pills, solutions, suspension, gelatin-based chewables, lotions, transdermal patches, and suppositories.
Age Restrictions
Patients must be at least 18 years old to apply for a medical marijuana card in Louisiana. However, minors can also access medical marijuana if they have a caregiver who is at least 21 years old and has been approved by the state.
Residency Requirements
To qualify for a medical marijuana card in Louisiana, you must be a resident of the state. You will need to provide proof of residency during the application process.
No Home Cultivation
Unlike some states, Louisiana does not allow patients or caregivers to cultivate their own medical marijuana. All medical marijuana must be purchased from a state-licensed dispensary.
Understanding these limits and regulations is crucial for anyone considering medical marijuana as a treatment option in Louisiana. Always consult with a healthcare provider to determine if medical marijuana is the right choice for your health needs.
