Conditions · New Mexico

Does anorexia & appetite loss qualify in New Mexico?

Yes. The New Mexico Medical Cannabis Program (Lynn and Erin Compassionate Use Act) lists Severe anorexia/cachexia as a qualifying condition. A New Mexico-licensed provider still has to evaluate you and agree that cannabis is appropriate.

About anorexia & appetite loss

Severe loss of appetite or an eating disorder that leads to dangerous weight loss.

Limited evidence. Cannabinoids can stimulate appetite. Evidence is limited and comes mostly from HIV/AIDS and cancer patients rather than anorexia nervosa.

Symptoms New Mexico patients most often hope to ease:

  • Little or no interest in food
  • Feeling full after only a few bites
  • Nausea that makes eating hard
  • Unwanted weight and muscle loss
  • Changes in taste or smell that make food unappealing
Before you start. Cannabis can cause dizziness, low blood pressure and falls, which are bigger risks in people who are weak from weight loss. It can add to drowsiness from opioids, anti-nausea medicines, sleep aids and alcohol.

Read more: medical marijuana for anorexia & appetite loss.

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

Anorexia & appetite loss in nearby states

  • Anorexia & appetite loss in Arizona
  • Anorexia & appetite loss in Utah
  • Anorexia & appetite loss in Colorado
  • Anorexia & appetite loss in Oklahoma

Frequently asked questions

Do I need medical records for anorexia & appetite loss?

Helpful records include: records showing the underlying diagnosis, such as cancer, HIV or kidney disease, from your treating doctor; weight history over recent months, ideally from clinic visits; a list of current medicines, including anti-nausea drugs, appetite stimulants and pain medicines. 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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  • A video visit with a licensed doctor
  • From $79, only if approved
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