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Conditions · Arizona

Does cachexia & wasting syndrome qualify in Arizona?

By MyMMJRx Editorial Team · Updated · 5 min read

Yes. The Arizona Medical Marijuana Program lists Chronic or debilitating disease (or its treatment) that produces cachexia or wasting syndrome as a qualifying condition. An Arizona-licensed provider still has to evaluate you and agree that cannabis is appropriate.

About cachexia & wasting syndrome

Severe, unintended loss of weight and muscle that comes with serious illnesses like cancer or HIV.

Limited evidence. There's limited evidence that cannabinoids increase appetite and reduce weight loss in HIV/AIDS.

Symptoms Arizona patients most often hope to ease:

  • Poor appetite and feeling full quickly
  • Nausea that makes eating difficult
  • Ongoing loss of weight and muscle
  • Changes in taste or smell of food
  • Fatigue and low energy
Before you start. Dizziness, low blood pressure and sedation can raise the risk of falls in people who are already weak. People with weakened immune systems should avoid smoking cannabis because of a risk of lung infections from contaminated plant material.

Read more: medical marijuana for cachexia & wasting syndrome.

How to get certified in Arizona

  1. Download the ADHS Medical Marijuana Physician Certification form.
  2. Visit an Arizona-licensed MD, DO, naturopathic or homeopathic physician who reviews 12 months of records and examines you.
  3. Have the physician complete and sign the certification form within 90 days of your application.
  4. Create an account on the ADHS licensing portal and upload the certification, a current photo, your Arizona ID and the signed patient attestation.
  5. Pay the $150 fee, or $75 if you receive SNAP benefits.
  6. Print or save your card once ADHS approves the application.

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

Costs and timeline

  • State fee: $150 ($75 for SNAP recipients)
  • Card lasts: 2 years
  • Processing: Usually within 2 weeks
  • Patient limit: 2.5 ounces of usable marijuana
  • Home grow: 12 plants in a locked facility, only if no dispensary was within 25 miles when you were authorized
  • Recreational sales: Legal for adults 21+
  • First visit online: Yes

See the full Arizona cost breakdown and Arizona program overview.

Other qualifying conditions in Arizona

Cachexia & wasting syndrome in nearby states

Frequently asked questions

Do I need medical records for cachexia & wasting syndrome?

Helpful records include: records confirming the underlying illness, such as a cancer, HIV or heart failure diagnosis; weight records over time showing unintended weight loss; notes from your oncologist, HIV specialist or dietitian about appetite and nutrition. Many patients are still evaluated on their history alone, and your Arizona provider will tell you if more is needed.

How long does certification take in Arizona?

The provider visit takes about 15 minutes. Usually within 2 weeks.

Can I renew online in Arizona?

In most cases, yes. Cards are renewed every two years. The renewal opens 90 days before expiration and needs a new physician certification, photo and attestation plus the same fee as a new card.

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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