Does ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease) qualify in Alabama?
Yes. The Alabama Medical Cannabis Program (Darren Wesley 'Ato' Hall Compassion Act) lists Spasticity associated with a motor neuron disease, including ALS as a qualifying condition. An Alabama-licensed provider still has to evaluate you and agree that cannabis is appropriate.
About ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease)
Not enough research. Research is limited to small studies. Patients mainly use cannabis for cramps, spasticity, appetite, drooling and sleep.
Symptoms Alabama patients most often hope to ease:
- Painful muscle cramps and twitching
- Stiffness and spasticity in the arms and legs
- Loss of appetite and unwanted weight loss
- Trouble falling or staying asleep
- Excess saliva and drooling
Read more: medical marijuana for ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease).
How to get certified in Alabama
- Confirm you are an Alabama resident aged 19 or older (or have a parent or guardian to act as caregiver).
- Book an in-person visit in Alabama with a physician certified to recommend medical cannabis.
- The physician diagnoses or confirms a qualifying condition, sets your product form and daily dose, and starts your registry submission.
- Show proof of identity and Alabama residency and provide a recent color photo.
- Create an account on the AMCC patient portal and pay the $40 (virtual) or $50 (physical) card fee within 60 days of certification.
- Once approved, present your card at a licensed AMCC dispensing site to buy products.
Alabama requires your first certification visit in person. Renewals can usually be done online.
Costs and timeline
- State fee: $40 virtual card or $50 physical card
- Card lasts: 1 year
- Processing: Set by the commission
- Patient limit: No more than 70 daily doses at any time
- Home grow: Not allowed
- Recreational sales: Not legal
- First visit online: No — in person first
See the full Alabama cost breakdown and Alabama program overview.
Other qualifying conditions in Alabama
- Autism spectrum disorder
- Cachexia & wasting syndrome
- Cancer
- Chronic pain
- Crohn's & IBD
- Depression
- Epilepsy & seizures
- HIV/AIDS
- Multiple sclerosis
- Nausea & appetite loss
- Opioid use disorder
- PTSD
- Panic disorder
- Parkinson's disease
See every qualifying condition in Alabama
ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease) in nearby states
Frequently asked questions
Do I need medical records for ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease)?
How long does certification take in Alabama?
Can I renew online in Alabama?
Sources
- AMCC - Patient and Caregiver Registration
- AMCC FAQ - How can I get a medical cannabis card?
- AMCC Schedule of Fees, Penalties and Fines (rev. 12/12/2024)
- Ala. Admin. Code Chapter 538-X-2 (Medical Cannabis, rev. 6/14/26)
- Ala. Admin. Code Rule 540-X-25-.09 (Board of Medical Examiners)
- National Academies — The Health Effects of Cannabis and Cannabinoids (2017)
This guide is general information, not medical or legal advice. Laws change — confirm details with your state agency. State facts last checked October 7, 2026.