Conditions · Vermont

Does cachexia & wasting syndrome qualify in Vermont?

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

  1. Confirm you are a Vermont resident with one of the listed qualifying conditions.
  2. See a health care professional who has treated you for at least three months (or qualifies for an exception) and has done a physical exam.
  3. Have the professional complete and submit the Healthcare Professional Verification Form, signed within the last six months.
  4. Create an account in the CCB online portal on a desktop or laptop (it does not work on phones or tablets).
  5. Upload a recent color photo and your Vermont ID details, then pay the $50 fee by credit or debit card.
  6. Wait for the CCB to review the application, usually within 30 days; incomplete applications get 30 days to be fixed.

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

Costs and timeline

  • State fee: $50 per application (initial or renewal)
  • Card lasts: 3 years
  • Processing: Within 30 days of receiving a complete application
  • Patient limit: Up to 2 oz of cannabis, plus cannabis grown and stored at home
  • Home grow: Up to 6 mature and 12 immature plants for registered patients/caregivers
  • Recreational sales: Legal for adults 21+
  • First visit online: No — in person first

See the full Vermont cost breakdown and Vermont program overview.

Other qualifying conditions in Vermont

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 Vermont provider will tell you if more is needed.

How long does certification take in Vermont?

The provider visit takes about 15 minutes. Within 30 days of receiving a complete application.

Can I renew online in Vermont?

In most cases, yes. Renew through the CCB portal every three years with a $50 fee and a new Healthcare Professional Verification Form dated within six months of submission.

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