Does ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease) qualify in Texas?
Yes. The Texas Compassionate Use Program (TCUP) lists Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) as a qualifying condition. A Texas-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 Texas 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).
What Texas allows
Texas does not issue medical marijuana cards. Instead, the Texas Compassionate Use Program, overseen by the Department of Public Safety, lets physicians registered in the Compassionate Use Registry of Texas (CURT) prescribe low-THC cannabis to permanent Texas residents with listed conditions. The patient does not register or pay the state; the doctor enters the prescription in CURT and a licensed dispensing organization fills it. House Bill 46, effective September 1, 2025, added chronic pain, traumatic brain injury, Crohn's and other IBD, and terminal illness or hospice and palliative care, redefined low-THC as up to 10 mg of THC per dose, and allowed vaporized products when medically necessary. Smoking remains prohibited.
Don't bring cannabis into Texas from another state — crossing state lines with it is a federal offense.
Other qualifying conditions in Texas
- Autism spectrum disorder
- Cancer
- Chronic pain
- Crohn's & IBD
- Epilepsy & seizures
- Multiple sclerosis
- PTSD
- Severe muscle spasms & spasticity
- Terminal illness & hospice
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease) in nearby states
- ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease) in New Mexico
- ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease) in Oklahoma
- ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease) in Arkansas
- ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease) in Louisiana
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 Texas provider will tell you if more is needed.
How long does certification take in Texas?
The provider visit takes about 15 minutes. No state card to wait for.
Sources
- H.B. 46 (89R) Enrolled Version - Texas Legislature Online
- H.B. 46 (89R) Bill Analysis - Texas Legislature Online
- Compassionate Use Program - Cannabis & the Law - Texas State Law Library
- Patients FAQ - Texas Department of Public Safety
- 89th Legislation - Texas Department of Public Safety
- 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.