7 Things to Know About Medical Marijuana in CT
The Connecticut Medical Marijuana Program has been around since 2012 and is seeing growth as more people become comfortable with cannabis as a natural medication. The addition of qualifying conditions such as chronic pain means more adults meet the requirements for patient certification.
If you are a Connecticut resident and are considering getting a medical marijuana patient certification, you probably know there is a lot of information out there. Let’s talk about the important stuff.
The knowledgeable and compassionate pharmacists at Fine Fettle’s medical marijuana dispensary are happy to answer your questions. Until then, here is information to help you understand the basics.
1. Who is eligible to use medical marijuana in CT?
Connecticut medical marijuana is available to patients over the age of 18 who have been certified by a Connecticut licensed physician/APRN. You must be diagnosed with a debilitating medical condition that is approved by the Department of Consumer Protection (DCP) to qualify.
Examples of applicable conditions include:
- PTSD
- Chronic pain
- Cancer
- Glaucoma
- Muscular dystrophy
- Parkinson’s disease
- Ulcerative colitis
- Cystic fibrosis
There are currently about 40 qualifying medical conditions for adults. These conditions are approved by the Regulation Review Committee under the recommendation of the Board of Physicians and Commissioner of Consumer Protection.
2. Can minors use CT medical marijuana?
Minors may qualify for medical marijuana use if they have one of a dozen listed qualifying conditions.
The parents or guardians of the minor must find two physicians to confirm that using medical marijuana is in the best interest of the minor. Only certain dosage forms and products are available for pediatric patients.
3. How much marijuana can a patient have on hand?
The DCP allows each Connecticut medical marijuana patient a 3 ounce or equivalent per month transaction limit. Upon approval from the certifying physician, the limit may be increased. This is most common in cases of severe medical conditions. While patients can purchase up to 3 ounces of medical marijuana products in a 30 day period, a patient can only have 2.5 ounces on their person at any time.
4. Who can grow medical marijuana in Connecticut?
The DCP licenses all marijuana growers in Connecticut. Growers must adhere to strict regulations for operation and have secure indoor-only growing facilities to produce a pharmaceutical-grade product. There are currently four licensed producers in CT:
- AGL
- CTPharma
- Curaleaf
- Theraplant
As of October 1st, 2021, anyone with a medical marijuana license is now permitted to grow up to six plants in their home. Only three of the plants can be mature.
5. How do I register as a Connecticut Medical Marijuana Patient?
Your first step is to talk to the physician treating you for your debilitating condition and discuss whether medical marijuana is an appropriate treatment. The DCP must receive certification from your physician before you can register in the system.
You will need to provide proof of identity and CT residency. Once the department has approved your application, you will receive your registration certificate via email. Learn more about how to obtain your Connecticut medical marijuana card.
6. What is a “caregiver” for marijuana in CT?
A caregiver is a person designated to be responsible for the patient, including their medical marijuana use. This is often the case when the patient is elderly, a minor, or otherwise lacks legal capacity.
The patient’s physician must certify that a caregiver is needed, and the patient may choose the caregiver. The registered caregiver may order and purchase medical marijuana on behalf of the patient they care for.
7. How do Connecticut medical marijuana dispensaries work?
Dispensaries in Connecticut must apply for a license to conduct business that is more stringent than the standard business formation and registration process. Only licensed pharmacists can serve as facility managers and oversee the dispensing of all medical marijuana products.
As of October 1, 2021, patients in the CT Medical Marijuana Program can shop at any of the 18 licensed dispensaries. You can find Fine Fettle’s dispensaries in Willimantic, Newington, and Storrs.
Thinking about trying cannabis?
The pharmacists at Fine Fettle will meet you at your level and can help you determine what products may best fit your needs.
Learn more about how to prepare for your first Connecticut medical marijuana dispensary visit and don’t hesitate to ask questions. We’re here to help!