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Conditions · New Mexico

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

By MyMMJRx Editorial Team · Updated · 5 min read

Yes. The New Mexico Medical Cannabis Program (Lynn and Erin Compassionate Use Act) lists Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) as a qualifying condition. A New Mexico-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 New Mexico 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 New Mexico

  1. Visit a New Mexico-licensed medical provider who is enrolled with the program; only providers can start an application.
  2. The provider confirms one of the 30 qualifying conditions and starts your application in the Online Patient Portal.
  3. Create your own account at mcp-patient-tracking.nmhealth.org.
  4. Check the details your provider entered, upload your New Mexico driver's license or state ID, and approve any caregiver.
  5. Sign the attestation and submit; there is no state fee.
  6. After approval (typically within 5 business days), download your electronic card from the portal.

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

Costs and timeline

  • State fee: Free (no state enrollment fee)
  • Card lasts: 3 years
  • Processing: Typically within 5 business days for online portal applications
  • Patient limit: 15 oz per 90 days
  • Home grow: With a personal production license: up to 16 plants, no more than 4 of them flowering (per a 2019 Department fact sheet)
  • Recreational sales: Legal for adults 21+
  • First visit online: Yes

See the full New Mexico cost breakdown and New Mexico program overview.

Other qualifying conditions in New Mexico

See every qualifying condition in New Mexico

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 New Mexico provider will tell you if more is needed.

How long does certification take in New Mexico?

The provider visit takes about 15 minutes. Typically within 5 business days for online portal applications.

Can I renew online in New Mexico?

In most cases, yes. Cards are valid for three years. To renew, you see your provider again, the provider starts a renewal application in the online portal, and you complete and submit it as you did the first time.

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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