Conditions · Mississippi

Does cachexia & wasting syndrome qualify in Mississippi?

Yes. The Mississippi Medical Cannabis Program lists A chronic, terminal or debilitating disease or condition, or its treatment, that causes cachexia or wasting syndrome as a qualifying condition. A Mississippi-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 Mississippi 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 Mississippi

  1. Find a practitioner registered with MSDH (MD, DO, NP, PA or optometrist) and have an in-person evaluation.
  2. The practitioner submits your written certification electronically to MSDH.
  3. Create an account on the MSDH licensing portal and complete the patient application.
  4. Pay the $25 card fee ($15 for Medicaid; waived for qualifying disabled veterans and first responders).
  5. MSDH reviews the application within about 10 days, and your card is available to print within 5 days of approval.
  6. Buy at licensed dispensaries within your MMCEU limits.

Mississippi requires your first certification visit in person. Renewals can usually be done online.

Costs and timeline

  • State fee: $25 ($15 for Medicaid participants; waived for disabled veterans and first responders with documentation)
  • Card lasts: 1 year (unless the practitioner sets a shorter term)
  • Processing: 10-day review; card available within 5 days of approval
  • Patient limit: 28 MMCEUs for residents; 14 MMCEUs for non-residents
  • Home grow: Not allowed
  • Recreational sales: Not legal
  • First visit online: No — in person first

See the full Mississippi cost breakdown and Mississippi program overview.

Other qualifying conditions in Mississippi

See every qualifying condition in Mississippi

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 Mississippi provider will tell you if more is needed.

How long does certification take in Mississippi?

The provider visit takes about 15 minutes. 10-day review; card available within 5 days of approval.

Can I renew online in Mississippi?

In most cases, yes. Certification and the card are good for one year. Renew annually through the portal with a new certification, which can be done by telehealth if your practitioner has already seen you in person. The fee is the same as for 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.

Keep reading

See if you qualify in two minutes

  • One short online form
  • A video visit with a licensed doctor
  • From $79, only if approved
Check if I qualify — free