Does ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease) qualify in Louisiana?
Yes. The Louisiana Medical (Therapeutic) Marijuana Program lists Neurodegenerative diseases (Alzheimer's disease, ALS, Huntington's disease, Lewy body dementia, motor neuron disease, Parkinson's disease, spinal muscular atrophy) as a qualifying condition. A Louisiana-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 Louisiana 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 Louisiana
- Find an authorized clinician in good standing with their licensing board. The state does not publish a list of clinicians who recommend.
- Have an evaluation so the clinician can confirm a debilitating condition and set up a genuine clinician-patient relationship.
- The clinician sends the recommendation by a method the state allows. You do not need to apply for a state card.
- Choose an LDH-permitted marijuana retailer or satellite location and bring a valid photo ID.
- Buy within the limit of 71 grams of flower every 14 days.
Louisiana allows the evaluation by telehealth, so you can see a Louisiana-licensed provider by video. Our evaluation starts at $79 and is charged only if you're approved.
Costs and timeline
- State fee: No state fee (no patient card or registry)
- Card lasts: Set by doctor
- Processing: No state card to wait for
- Patient limit: Set by your recommendation
- Home grow: Not allowed
- Recreational sales: Not legal
- First visit online: Yes
See the full Louisiana cost breakdown and Louisiana program overview.
Other qualifying conditions in Louisiana
- Alzheimer's disease
- Autism spectrum disorder
- Cachexia & wasting syndrome
- Cancer
- Chronic pain
- Crohn's & IBD
- Epilepsy & seizures
- Fibromyalgia
- Glaucoma
- HIV/AIDS
- Huntington's disease
- Multiple sclerosis
- Muscular dystrophy
- PTSD
See every qualifying condition in Louisiana
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 Louisiana?
Can I renew online in Louisiana?
Sources
- LDH Medical Marijuana
- RS 40:1046 - Recommendation and sale of marijuana for therapeutic use
- Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners - Notice regarding medical marijuana recommendations via telemedicine
- Louisiana Board of Pharmacy Bulletin 24-02 (2024 new laws, Act 693)
- Act 693 (HB 376) of 2024 - Enrolled
- Louisiana Laws - visiting qualifying patient provisions
- 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.