Quick answer
Quick answer
Yes, in many places. 4 state programs name Ehlers-Danlos syndrome on the official list, and 14 more let the certifying provider decide. Either way, a provider licensed in your state has to evaluate you and agree that cannabis is appropriate.
Understanding Ehlers-Danlos syndrome
Many people with EDS live with loose joints that partly or fully dislocate, widespread pain, fatigue and stomach problems, and some also have dizziness from a condition called POTS. Care usually includes physical therapy to strengthen muscles around joints, bracing, pain management and treatment for related conditions.
Symptoms patients hope to ease
- Chronic joint and muscle pain
- Pain after partial or full joint dislocations
- Muscle spasms and tightness
- Trouble sleeping because of pain
- Nausea and digestive discomfort
- Frequent headaches
Does Ehlers-Danlos syndrome qualify in your state?
- AL AlabamaNot listed by name
- AK AlaskaDoctor's discretion
- AZ ArizonaNot listed by name
- AR ArkansasNot listed by name
- CA CaliforniaDoctor's discretion
- CO ColoradoDoctor's discretion
- CT ConnecticutListed as “Ehlers-Danlos syndrome associated with chronic …”
- DE DelawareDoctor's discretion
- FL FloridaDoctor's discretion
- HI HawaiiDoctor's discretion
- IL IllinoisListed
- KY KentuckyNot listed by name
- LA LouisianaDoctor's discretion
- ME MaineDoctor's discretion
- MD MarylandNot listed by name
- MA MassachusettsNot listed by name
- MI MichiganNot listed by name
- MN MinnesotaDoctor's discretion
- MS MississippiNot listed by name
- MO MissouriDoctor's discretion
- MT MontanaNot listed by name
- NV NevadaNot listed by name
- NH New HampshireListed
- NJ New JerseyNot listed by name
- NM New MexicoNot listed by name
- NY New YorkDoctor's discretion
- ND North DakotaListed
- OH OhioNot listed by name
- OK OklahomaDoctor's discretion
- OR OregonNot listed by name
- PA PennsylvaniaNot listed by name
- RI Rhode IslandNot listed by name
- SD South DakotaNot listed by name
- UT UtahNot listed by name
- VT VermontNot listed by name
- VA VirginiaDoctor's discretion
- WA WashingtonNot listed by name
- DC Washington, D.C.Doctor's discretion
- WV West VirginiaNot listed by name
What the research says
Not enough research. There is little good research on cannabis for this condition specifically. Patients usually use it for related symptoms such as pain, muscle spasms, nausea or poor sleep, where some evidence exists.
- There is little research specifically on cannabis for Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, and no clinical trials have studied it.
- Patients typically use cannabis for related symptoms like chronic pain, muscle spasms, poor sleep and nausea.
- Patient surveys show that many people with EDS have tried cannabis and report pain relief, but surveys cannot prove it works.
- Doctors mainly draw on the 2017 National Academies review, which found substantial evidence that cannabis can modestly reduce chronic pain in adults.
Sources: National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, The Health Effects of Cannabis and Cannabinoids (2017); FDA approvals; published trials. General information, not medical advice.
How doctors approach Ehlers-Danlos syndrome
Topical creams or balms may be tried for specific painful joints without affecting the whole body.
Oral tinctures or capsules are often considered for longer-lasting relief, especially at night.
Many doctors start with CBD-leaning products and add small amounts of THC slowly, particularly for people with POTS.
Starting low, going slow and pairing cannabis with physical therapy helps keep the focus on building joint stability.
Risks and precautions
- THC can raise heart rate and lower blood pressure, which may worsen dizziness and fainting in people with POTS.
- If you have vascular EDS, talk with your specialist first, because THC can cause a fast heart rate and blood pressure changes.
- Feeling relaxed or numb can make it easier to overextend joints, so take care with movement after using cannabis.
- People with mast cell problems may react to additives or plant ingredients in some products.
- Heavy, long-term use can cause cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome, a cycle of severe vomiting that can be confused with EDS-related stomach problems.
- Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding, and never drive while impaired.
What to bring to your evaluation
A diagnosis letter or genetics notes confirming your type of EDS.
Records from specialists such as rheumatology, genetics or cardiology, including any POTS diagnosis.
A list of pain treatments you have tried, including physical therapy and medicines.
A pain diary noting dislocations, flares and how symptoms affect sleep and daily tasks.
A government photo ID and proof that you live in your state.
Don't have records handy? Many patients are evaluated on their history alone.
Start my free checkHow to get certified for Ehlers-Danlos syndrome
Answer a few questions
Pick your state, tell us your symptoms and what you've already tried. Review your answers and contact you to schedule your video visit.Meet your doctor by video
Join from your phone or laptop. Have a photo ID ready. The doctor reviews your history and decides whether cannabis is right for you.Get certified and registered
Pay the evaluation fee, then submit your state registry form. The doctor files your certification. We walk you through the state form line by line.
Ehlers-Danlos syndrome: 9 common questions
Does Ehlers-Danlos syndrome qualify for a medical marijuana card?
Yes, in many places. 4 state programs name Ehlers-Danlos syndrome on the official list, and 14 more let the certifying provider decide. Either way, a provider licensed in your state has to evaluate you and agree that cannabis is appropriate.
Which states list Ehlers-Danlos syndrome as a qualifying condition?
As of our latest check of each state's official list: Connecticut, Illinois, New Hampshire and North Dakota. Providers can also certify it in Alaska, California, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Hawaii, Louisiana, Maine and 6 more, which don't use a fixed list. Lists change, so confirm on your state's page before you apply.
Can I get certified for Ehlers-Danlos syndrome online?
Yes, in 13 of those states — including Connecticut, Illinois, California, Delaware, Hawaii and 8 more — your first evaluation can happen by video with a provider licensed there. In 5 others, such as New Hampshire, North Dakota, Alaska and 2 more, the first visit must be in person, and renewals can usually be done online.
Can cannabis help with EDS joint pain?
There are no clinical trials on cannabis for EDS, but many people with EDS report that it eases pain. Cannabis has modest evidence for chronic pain in general. It works best as one part of a plan that includes physical therapy and joint protection.
Is cannabis safe if I have EDS and POTS?
It needs extra care. THC can speed up your heart and lower blood pressure, which may make lightheadedness and fainting worse. Start with CBD-leaning products, use small amounts while sitting or lying down, and stay well hydrated.
Are topical cannabis products useful for EDS?
Topicals may help with pain in a specific joint or muscle, and very little reaches your bloodstream. That makes them a gentle place to start, especially if you are sensitive to medicines. Try a small area first to check for skin reactions.
Is CBD or THC better for Ehlers-Danlos syndrome?
Neither has been studied directly in EDS. CBD does not cause a high and is less likely to affect heart rate, so it is often tried first. Small amounts of THC may help more with pain and sleep, but they should be added slowly.
Can cannabis help with nausea and stomach problems in EDS?
Some people find small amounts of cannabis ease nausea. However, heavy daily use can cause cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome, which leads to repeated vomiting. If stomach symptoms get worse with regular use, stop and talk with your doctor.
Can cannabis interact with my pain medicines?
Cannabis can add to the drowsiness of opioids, muscle relaxants, gabapentin and sleep aids. CBD can also change how the liver processes some medicines. Share your full medicine list at your visit so your doctor can plan a safe approach.