Minnesota will include IBS and OCD for medical marijuana

The Minnesota Department of Health added a list of qualifying medical conditions for medical marijuana to include irritable bowel syndrome IBS and obsessive-compulsive disorder OCD This decision will take effect on August 1, 2023.

The new qualifying conditions are being added to allow patients more therapy options for conditions that can be debilitating, said Minnesota Commissioner of Health Jan Malcolm.

On July 1, 2023, qualified patients will be able to enroll in the state's medical marijuana program and get medical cannabis from one of the state's two manufacturers starting August 1. Patients will need advance certification from a participating Minnesota healthcare provider, as is the case for other qualifying conditions. More information about how to become a medical cannabis patient can be found here.

IBS is a common disorder that affects the gastrointestinal tract. The most common symptoms include abdominal pain, bloating, gas, cramping, diarrhea or constipation, or both. It is considered a chronic condition that needs to be managed long-term.

Even milder people can cause problems with everyday functioning, despite the fact that a number of people suffer from more severe symptoms.

OCD is a disorder that is characterized by a pattern of unwanted thoughts and fears that result in repetitive behaviors compulsions. These obsessions and compulsions affect normal daily activities causing significant emotional distress and anxiety.

People who suffers from either OCD or IBS may benefit from medical marijuana, according to studies.

The state Department of Health has run a formal petition asking for public input on possible qualifying conditions and delivery methods for medical cannabis. Residents submitted their requests in June and July, after a public comment period and a review panel, IBS and OCD were approved. Petitions for opioid use disorder and gastroparesis were denied. Gastroparesis was denied because some medical studies claim marijuana can make the condition worse. There was a lack of evidence as to its effectiveness. Opioid use disorder was rejected.

The list of qualifying conditions for medical marijuana is 19 disorders.

There were no petitions for new delivery methods this year.