IDPH deems four new conditions eligible for medical cannabis treatment

The Illinois Department of Public Health has approved the addition of four conditions to the list eligible for medical cannabis treatment: endometriosis, ovarian cysts, uterine fibroids and female orgasmic disorder.

This decision follows a review by the Medical Cannabis Advisory Board and department staff, led by IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra.

Illinois law requires the department’s director to assess scientific research and medical literature when considering whether to approve new conditions for medical cannabis use.

“Medical cannabis has been shown to offer an effective means of relief from a variety of debilitating medical conditions and symptoms,” Vohra said in a news release from the department. “IDPH reviews petitions carefully, using expert opinion and the most up to date evidence to make decisions that best serve Illinois residents. IDPH looks forward to working with our medical providers to ensure appropriate access for individuals struggling with these newly approved conditions.”

The latest conditions approved for treatment with medical cannabis are:

• Endometriosis: This is a condition in which tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, which can result in severe pain, scarring and infertility. Studies show that cannabis is an effective means of treating pain from endometriosis.

• Ovarian cysts: This is a broad category covering several different types of cysts (a solid or fluid-filled pocket) which grows on or within the ovary. Medical cannabis would be used to treat the pain associated with these cysts.

• Uterine fibroids: These common, benign growths can lead to chronic pelvic pain, which can be treated with medical cannabis.

• Female orgasmic disorder: This is a condition where a female has difficulty reaching orgasm. There may be a wide variety of causes for this syndrome. Data suggests that cannabis can be helpful for women with difficulties or dysfunction attaining orgasm.

The additions are effective immediately, allowing providers to begin certifying patients with these conditions for medical cannabis treatment.

These four approvals mark the first expansion since 2019 of the list of conditions eligible for medical cannabis use. Those four newly added conditions bring the total to 56.

To find a list of eligible conditions, visit dph.illinois.gov/topics-services/prevention-wellness/medical-cannabis/debilitating-conditions.html.