Quick answer
Quick answer
Yes, in many places. 2 state programs name post-concussion syndrome on the official list, and 13 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 post-concussion syndrome
Lingering symptoms can make it hard to work, study, drive, exercise or sleep, and they often come with irritability and anxiety. Treatment focuses on a gradual return to activity, headache care, vestibular and vision therapy, sleep support and counseling.
Symptoms patients hope to ease
- Persistent headaches
- Trouble falling or staying asleep
- Irritability and mood swings
- Anxiety after the injury
- Neck pain linked to the injury
- Sensitivity to light and noise
Does post-concussion 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 ConnecticutNot listed by name
- DE DelawareDoctor's discretion
- FL FloridaDoctor's discretion
- HI HawaiiDoctor's discretion
- IL IllinoisListed
- KY KentuckyNot listed by name
- LA LouisianaListed as “Concussion”
- 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 HampshireNot listed by name
- NJ New JerseyNot listed by name
- NM New MexicoNot listed by name
- NY New YorkDoctor's discretion
- ND North DakotaNot listed by name
- 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 post-concussion syndrome, and patients typically use it for related symptoms such as headache and sleep.
- Animal studies suggest cannabinoids may affect brain inflammation after injury, but this has not been shown to help people recover.
- Some patient surveys report less headache and better sleep, but these studies have no placebo group.
- THC is known to affect memory, attention and balance in the short term, which overlaps with concussion symptoms.
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 post-concussion syndrome
Doctors who consider cannabis usually target a specific problem such as headache or sleep, often after other approaches have been tried.
CBD-leaning or low-THC products are commonly discussed, since higher THC can worsen thinking, dizziness and anxiety.
Oral forms or tinctures used in the evening are a common choice when sleep is the main concern.
Starting very low, going slow and keeping a symptom diary helps you notice any worsening.
Risks and precautions
- THC can worsen memory, concentration, dizziness and balance, which are often already affected after a concussion.
- Young people, whose brains are still developing, are more sensitive to THC and should only use cannabis under a specialist's care.
- Cannabis can add to sleepiness from headache, sleep or mood medicines, and daily use may contribute to rebound headaches when stopped.
- New or worsening symptoms such as severe headache, vomiting, weakness or confusion need urgent medical care.
- Do not drive while impaired, and follow your doctor's guidance about returning to driving and sports.
- Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding, and never drive while impaired.
What to bring to your evaluation
Records of the concussion, such as emergency or clinic notes and any brain imaging.
Notes from a neurologist, sports medicine or concussion specialist describing ongoing symptoms.
A list of medicines and therapies tried, such as headache medicines and vestibular therapy.
A diary of headaches, sleep, dizziness and thinking problems.
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 post-concussion 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.
Post-concussion syndrome: 9 common questions
Does post-concussion syndrome qualify for a medical marijuana card?
Yes, in many places. 2 state programs name post-concussion syndrome on the official list, and 13 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 post-concussion syndrome as a qualifying condition?
As of our latest check of each state's official list: Illinois and Louisiana. Providers can also certify it in Alaska, California, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Hawaii, Maine, Minnesota and 5 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 post-concussion syndrome online?
Yes, in 12 of those states — including Illinois, Louisiana, California, Delaware, Hawaii and 7 more — your first evaluation can happen by video with a provider licensed there. In 3 others, such as Alaska, Colorado and Florida, the first visit must be in person, and renewals can usually be done online.
Can cannabis help concussion headaches?
Some people report fewer or milder headaches, but there are no clinical trials in post-concussion syndrome. Frequent use may also lead to rebound headaches when you stop. Track headache days in a diary and review them with your doctor.
Will cannabis slow my recovery from a concussion?
It is not known for sure, but THC can affect thinking, memory and balance, which you are trying to rebuild. This may make it harder to judge how you are healing. Many concussion specialists advise caution, especially early on.
Does CBD or THC work better after a concussion?
Neither has been well studied for concussion. CBD is less likely to worsen thinking and dizziness, so doctors often lean toward CBD-dominant products. Avoid high-THC products while symptoms are active.
Can teenagers use cannabis after a sports concussion?
Most experts advise against it, since the teenage brain is still developing and more sensitive to THC. Teens recovering from concussion are also working to regain focus for school. Talk with their concussion doctor about other options.
Can cannabis help me sleep after a concussion?
Some people find evening use helps them fall asleep. Good sleep habits, managing screen time and treating headaches are important too. If you try cannabis, use a low dose and see whether you feel foggy the next morning.
Can I use cannabis alongside vestibular or vision therapy?
You can, but avoid using it before sessions, since THC can increase dizziness and affect balance and eye movements. This can make therapy less effective. Let your therapist know what you use.