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Conditions · Connecticut

Does ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease) qualify in Connecticut?

By MyMMJRx Editorial Team · Updated · 5 min read

Yes. The Connecticut Medical Marijuana Program lists Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) as a qualifying condition. A Connecticut-licensed provider still has to evaluate you and agree that cannabis is appropriate.

About ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease)

A progressive disease that destroys the nerve cells controlling muscles, causing weakness, cramps and trouble swallowing.

Not enough research. Research is limited to small studies. Patients mainly use cannabis for cramps, spasticity, appetite, drooling and sleep.

Symptoms Connecticut 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
Before you start. Sedating effects can add to breathing weakness, so tell your doctor about any breathing problems, sleep apnea or use of a breathing machine. Smoking or vaping can irritate the airways and is generally avoided when lung function is reduced.

Read more: medical marijuana for ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease).

How to get certified in Connecticut

  1. Visit a Connecticut-licensed physician, APRN or PA (in person or by telehealth) who treats your qualifying condition.
  2. Give the provider a valid email address and phone number so they can submit your certification.
  3. Create an account in the DCP BizNet medical marijuana registration system and verify your email.
  4. Choose 'I Am a Patient' and confirm your identity with your date of birth and email.
  5. Upload a photo ID and a proof of Connecticut residency, and add your caregiver if your provider authorized one.
  6. Answer the attestation questions and submit; there is no registration fee.

Connecticut allows the evaluation by telehealth, so you can see a Connecticut-licensed provider by video. Our evaluation starts at $79 and is charged only if you're approved.

Costs and timeline

  • State fee: $0 (registration fees eliminated July 1, 2023)
  • Card lasts: 1 year from the date of provider certification
  • Processing: Usually within 1–2 weeks
  • Patient limit: Up to 5 ounces of cannabis flower
  • Home grow: Patients 18+ may grow 3 mature and 3 immature plants indoors at their primary residence, with no more than 12 plants per household
  • Recreational sales: Legal for adults 21+
  • First visit online: Yes

See the full Connecticut cost breakdown and Connecticut program overview.

Other qualifying conditions in Connecticut

See every qualifying condition in Connecticut

ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease) in nearby states

Frequently asked questions

Do I need medical records for ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease)?

Helpful records include: a diagnosis letter or clinic notes from your neurologist or ALS clinic confirming ALS; a current list of all your medicines, including riluzole, edaravone, muscle relaxants and sleep aids; recent notes on breathing tests and swallowing assessments, if you have them. Many patients are still evaluated on their history alone, and your Connecticut provider will tell you if more is needed.

How long does certification take in Connecticut?

The provider visit takes about 15 minutes. Usually within 1–2 weeks.

Can I renew online in Connecticut?

In most cases, yes. Your registration expires one year after your provider certified you, so you need a new certification from your provider each year to stay active.

Sources

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.

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