Minnesota state health officials are adding autism and obstructive sleep apnea to the list of qualifying conditions to receive medical marijuana.
Minnesota residents are getting some good medical news. For those affected by autism or obstructive sleep apnea, relief could be on the way by July.
State Health Commissioner Dr. Ed Ehlinger announced that the two conditions will be added the list of qualifying conditions that can be treated with medical marijuana. This brings the total conditions legally treatable by medical marijuana in Minnesota to 13.
Marijuana advocates requested a total of 10 conditions be added, including anxiety and dementia. Ultimately Ehlinger felt sleep apnea and autism made the strongest cases to be added.
“Any policy decisions about cannabis are difficult due to the relative lack of published scientific evidence,” Ehlinger said according to the Star Tribune. “However, there is increasing evidence for potential benefits of medical cannabis for those with severe autism and obstructive sleep apnea.”
Medical marijuana was legalized in Minnesota in 2015 after the state Senate passed SB2470. Cancer, glaucoma, HIV/AIDS, Tourette’s syndorme, ALS, seizures/epilepsy, severe and persistent muscle spasms/MS, Crohn’s disease, and terminal illness were considered the only qualifying conditions before this week’s announcement.
In total 29 states have legalized the use of medical marijuana and more are expected to come online in the next few years.
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