Medical Marijuana for Psoriasis: Qualifying States & FAQ

Quick answer

Yes, in many places. 1 state program name psoriasis 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.

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14provider's discretion

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Understanding psoriasis

Psoriasis is a long-term immune condition that speeds up skin cell growth, causing thick, scaly, itchy patches, often on the elbows, knees, scalp and lower back. It affects about 3 percent of US adults, roughly 7.5 million people, and up to a third of people with psoriasis also develop psoriatic arthritis.

Itching, pain and the visible patches can disrupt sleep, confidence and social life, and stress often triggers flares. Treatment ranges from topical steroids and vitamin D creams to light therapy and whole-body medicines such as methotrexate, apremilast and biologic drugs.

Symptoms patients hope to ease

Persistent itching
Burning, cracking or painful skin patches
Joint pain and stiffness from psoriatic arthritis
Poor sleep because of itching or pain
Stress and anxiety that can trigger flares

Does psoriasis qualify in your state?

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 psoriasis, and no large clinical trials have studied it.
Patients typically use cannabis for related symptoms like itching, skin discomfort, joint pain, stress and sleep.
Lab studies suggest cannabinoids can affect skin cell growth and inflammation, but this has not been shown to clear psoriasis in people.
A few very small, uncontrolled studies of topical CBD ointments reported skin improvements, but they are too small to draw firm conclusions.

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 psoriasis

Topical creams or balms may be tried on a small area first to check for irritation.
Oral CBD-leaning tinctures or capsules are sometimes considered for stress and sleep.
Small amounts of THC may be added at night when itching or joint pain disrupts sleep.
Smoking is generally discouraged, and cannabis is used alongside your prescribed psoriasis treatment.

Risks and precautions

Smoking is linked to worse psoriasis, and smoking cannabis adds similar smoke exposure.
If you take methotrexate, CBD may add to the strain on your liver, so ask about liver blood tests.
Biologics and other immune-suppressing drugs raise infection risk, which is another reason to avoid smoking or vaping.
Topical products can contain fragrances or oils that irritate sensitive skin, so patch test before wider use.
Alcohol can worsen psoriasis and adds to cannabis drowsiness, so avoid mixing them.
Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding, and never drive while impaired.

What to bring to your evaluation

Notes from your dermatologist or primary care doctor confirming psoriasis.
Records of treatments you have tried, such as creams, light therapy and systemic medicines.
Any psoriatic arthritis diagnosis from a rheumatologist.
Photos or notes showing flares, plus a log of itching and sleep 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.

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How to get certified for psoriasis

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.

Psoriasis: 9 common questions

Does psoriasis qualify for a medical marijuana card?

Yes, in many places. 1 state program name psoriasis 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 psoriasis as a qualifying condition?

As of our latest check of each state's official list: Connecticut. 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 psoriasis online?

Yes, in 12 of those states — including Connecticut, California, Delaware, Hawaii, Louisiana 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 clear psoriasis?

No. There is no evidence that cannabis clears psoriasis or changes the immune process behind it. Some people use it to ease itching, discomfort or stress. Keep using the treatments your dermatologist prescribes.

Do CBD creams help psoriasis?

A few very small studies of topical CBD have reported skin improvements, but they were not controlled and need confirming. Some people find topicals soothing for itch. Try a small patch first, and stop if your skin becomes red or irritated.

Can smoking cannabis make psoriasis worse?

It might. Tobacco smoking is a well-known risk factor for worse psoriasis, and smoking cannabis also exposes you to smoke. Oral or topical forms avoid this concern.

Can I use cannabis with methotrexate or biologics?

Methotrexate can strain the liver, and CBD is processed by the liver too, so your doctor may want to check liver tests. Biologics lower your defense against infection, which makes smoking or vaping riskier. Tell your dermatologist or rheumatologist about any cannabis you use.

Can cannabis help psoriatic arthritis pain?

Cannabis has modest evidence for chronic pain in general, and some people with psoriatic arthritis report relief. It does not prevent joint damage, which needs proper treatment from a rheumatologist. Use cannabis, if at all, as an add-on to that care.

Can cannabis help with stress-triggered psoriasis flares?

Some people use CBD to help manage stress, and small studies suggest it may ease anxiety in the short term. It has not been shown to prevent psoriasis flares. Stress-reduction habits, good sleep and your regular treatment plan remain the foundation.

Medical marijuana for psoriasis