Conditions · Louisiana

Does Crohn's disease and IBD qualify in Louisiana?

Yes. The Louisiana Medical (Therapeutic) Marijuana Program lists Crohn's disease as a qualifying condition. A Louisiana-licensed provider still has to evaluate you and agree that cannabis is appropriate.

About Crohn's disease and IBD

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) includes Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis — long-term inflammation of the digestive tract.

Limited evidence. Small trials suggest cannabis can improve symptoms and quality of life for some patients, but it hasn't been shown to reduce the underlying inflammation.

Symptoms Louisiana patients most often hope to ease:

  • Cramping belly pain
  • Nausea and poor appetite
  • Unwanted weight loss
  • Trouble sleeping during flares
  • Joint pain linked to IBD
Before you start. Cannabis may hide flare symptoms while inflammation continues, so keep up with blood tests, stool tests and scopes. Heavy long-term use can cause cannabis hyperemesis syndrome, with repeated vomiting and belly pain that can look like an IBD flare.

Read more: medical marijuana for Crohn's disease and IBD.

How to get certified in Louisiana

  1. Find an authorized clinician in good standing with their licensing board. The state does not publish a list of clinicians who recommend.
  2. Have an evaluation so the clinician can confirm a debilitating condition and set up a genuine clinician-patient relationship.
  3. The clinician sends the recommendation by a method the state allows. You do not need to apply for a state card.
  4. Choose an LDH-permitted marijuana retailer or satellite location and bring a valid photo ID.
  5. Buy within the limit of 71 grams of flower every 14 days.

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

Costs and timeline

  • State fee: No state fee (no patient card or registry)
  • Card lasts: Set by doctor
  • Processing: No state card to wait for
  • Patient limit: Set by your recommendation
  • Home grow: Not allowed
  • Recreational sales: Not legal
  • First visit online: Yes

See the full Louisiana cost breakdown and Louisiana program overview.

Other qualifying conditions in Louisiana

See every qualifying condition in Louisiana

Crohn's & IBD in nearby states

Frequently asked questions

Do I need medical records for Crohn's disease and IBD?

Helpful records include: a gastroenterologist's diagnosis letter or clinic notes confirming Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis; colonoscopy, biopsy or imaging reports; a list of IBD medicines you take or have tried, including biologics and steroids. Many patients are still evaluated on their history alone, and your Louisiana provider will tell you if more is needed.

How long does certification take in Louisiana?

The provider visit takes about 15 minutes. No state card to wait for.

Can I renew online in Louisiana?

In most cases, yes. There is no state card to renew. Patients go back to their clinician when a new or updated recommendation is needed.

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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