Conditions · Connecticut

Does cachexia & wasting syndrome qualify in Connecticut?

Yes. The Connecticut Medical Marijuana Program lists Cachexia as a qualifying condition. A Connecticut-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 Connecticut 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 Connecticut

  1. Visit a Connecticut-licensed physician, APRN or PA (in person or by telehealth) who treats your qualifying condition.
  2. Give the provider a valid email address and phone number so they can submit your certification.
  3. Create an account in the DCP BizNet medical marijuana registration system and verify your email.
  4. Choose 'I Am a Patient' and confirm your identity with your date of birth and email.
  5. Upload a photo ID and a proof of Connecticut residency, and add your caregiver if your provider authorized one.
  6. Answer the attestation questions and submit; there is no registration fee.

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

Costs and timeline

  • State fee: $0 (registration fees eliminated July 1, 2023)
  • Card lasts: 1 year from the date of provider certification
  • Processing: Usually within 1–2 weeks
  • Patient limit: Up to 5 ounces of cannabis flower
  • Home grow: Patients 18+ may grow 3 mature and 3 immature plants indoors at their primary residence, with no more than 12 plants per household
  • Recreational sales: Legal for adults 21+
  • First visit online: Yes

See the full Connecticut cost breakdown and Connecticut program overview.

Other qualifying conditions in Connecticut

See every qualifying condition in Connecticut

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 Connecticut provider will tell you if more is needed.

How long does certification take in Connecticut?

The provider visit takes about 15 minutes. Usually within 1–2 weeks.

Can I renew online in Connecticut?

In most cases, yes. Your registration expires one year after your provider certified you, so you need a new certification from your provider each year to stay active.

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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