State Board Adds Two Conditions to Medical Cannabis Eligibility List

7 June 2024

The Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection announced the expansion of the state’s list of qualifying conditions for medical marijuana use to include Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Female Orgasmic Difficulty/Disorder. This marks the first update to the program’s eligibility criteria since 2021, following a unanimous vote by the Medical Marijuana Program Board of Physicians. These conditions join a comprehensive list of 42 others, such as cancer, PTSD, and Parkinson’s disease, eligible for treatment under the program. Additional information about qualifying conditions for medical marijuana in Connecticut can be found on the Department of Consumer Protection's website.

Advocates, including healthcare professionals and patients, have highlighted the potential benefits of medical cannabis for individuals with these conditions. Many have shared personal accounts of improved quality of life through cannabis therapy after experiencing adverse effects from conventional treatments. For individuals with ASD, medical cannabis has been described as a valuable alternative, helping to address symptoms more effectively. Similarly, the inclusion of Female Orgasmic Difficulty/Disorder, a condition affecting a significant percentage of women, reflects growing recognition of the mental and emotional impacts of such conditions and the need for alternative therapeutic options.

With nearly 40,000 patients already registered in the program and tax-free medical cannabis available through dispensaries, this expansion is expected to increase patient enrollment and stimulate demand for specialized cannabis products. The decision demonstrates Connecticut’s dedication to patient-focused cannabis policies and its leadership in addressing historically underserved medical needs through innovative therapies.