Does cachexia & wasting syndrome qualify in Maryland?
Yes. The Maryland Medical Cannabis Program lists Cachexia as a qualifying condition. A Maryland-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 Maryland 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 Maryland
- Create a Maryland OneStop account and verify your email address.
- Gather digital copies of your photo ID, proof of Maryland residency (dated within 90 days), your Social Security number and a recent color photo.
- Submit the patient registration application. Approval is free, and you'll get a patient ID number by email.
- See an MCA-registered certifying provider, in person or by video, for your written certification.
- Optionally order a $25 plastic ID card or name a caregiver in OneStop.
- At a dispensary, show your government photo ID along with your patient ID card or number.
Maryland allows the evaluation by telehealth, so you can see a Maryland-licensed provider by video. Our evaluation starts at $79 and is charged only if you're approved.
Costs and timeline
- State fee: Free registration; optional plastic ID card $25 (Card fee waived for Maryland Medicaid and VA Maryland Health Care System enrollees; minor and hospice patients get cards free)
- Card lasts: Certification must be renewed with a provider assessment within each 365 days
- Processing: Patient ID often same day
- Patient limit: The amount in the patient's written certification (standard 30-day supply is 120 g of flower or 36 g of THC)
- Home grow: Adults 21+ may grow up to 2 plants per household under the adult-use law
- Recreational sales: Legal for adults 21+
- First visit online: Yes
See the full Maryland cost breakdown and Maryland program overview.
Other qualifying conditions in Maryland
- Anorexia & appetite loss
- Chronic pain
- Epilepsy & seizures
- Glaucoma
- Nausea & appetite loss
- PTSD
- Severe muscle spasms & spasticity
Cachexia & wasting syndrome in nearby states
- Cachexia & wasting syndrome in Virginia
- Cachexia & wasting syndrome in West Virginia
- Cachexia & wasting syndrome in Pennsylvania
- Cachexia & wasting syndrome in Delaware
- Cachexia & wasting syndrome in Washington, D.C.
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 Maryland provider will tell you if more is needed.
How long does certification take in Maryland?
The provider visit takes about 15 minutes. Patient ID often same day.
Can I renew online in Maryland?
In most cases, yes. Your certifying provider must complete a new full assessment within 365 days to reissue your certification, and this can be done by telehealth. Keep your OneStop registration current.
Sources
- MCA - Patients
- MCA - Adult Patient Registration
- MCA Guidance: Medical Patients, Caregivers, Etc. (June 2024)
- MCA - Certifying Providers
- MCA - Provider FAQ
- COMAR 14.17.04.03 - Written Certification
- 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.