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Conditions · Illinois

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

By MyMMJRx Editorial Team · Updated · 5 min read

Yes. The Illinois Medical Cannabis Patient Program (Compassionate Use of Medical Cannabis Program) lists Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) as a qualifying condition. An Illinois-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 Illinois 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 Illinois

  1. Create a State of Illinois iLogin account and sign in to the IDPH Medical Cannabis Patient portal.
  2. See an Illinois-licensed health care provider (in person or by telemedicine) who certifies your qualifying condition online.
  3. Start an Adult Medical Cannabis Patient application and enter your details and Illinois ID.
  4. Link your provider's certification within 90 days of the exam.
  5. Choose a 1, 2 or 3-year card, add any caregivers, and pay the fee.
  6. Use the provisional letter (temporary card) to start buying at a licensed medical dispensary while your card is processed.

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

Costs and timeline

  • State fee: $50 (1 year), $100 (2 years), $125 (3 years) ($25 / $50 / $75 for veterans and SSI or SSDI recipients)
  • Card lasts: 1, 2 or 3 years (patient's choice)
  • Processing: Provisional access while the card is processed
  • Patient limit: 2.5 ounces of usable cannabis per 14-day period (a provider can request a waiver for more)
  • Home grow: Up to 5 plants for registered medical patients
  • Recreational sales: Legal for adults 21+
  • First visit online: Yes

See the full Illinois cost breakdown and Illinois program overview.

Other qualifying conditions in Illinois

See every qualifying condition in Illinois

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 Illinois provider will tell you if more is needed.

How long does certification take in Illinois?

The provider visit takes about 15 minutes. Provisional access while the card is processed.

Can I renew online in Illinois?

In most cases, yes. IDPH sends reminder emails starting 90 days before a card expires. You renew through the same online portal with a new provider certification and fee; a lifelong-renewal option exists for qualifying patients at $50 for three years.

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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