Illinois expands medical cannabis program to include 4 new conditions

CHICAGO - The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) has expanded the list of conditions eligible for medical cannabis treatment to include endometriosis, ovarian cysts, uterine fibroids, and female orgasmic disorder.

Each of the newly-approved conditions involves significant pain or other challenges that medical cannabis may help alleviate.

Endometriosis, a condition where uterine-like tissue grows outside the uterus, is known to cause severe pain and other complications. Similarly, ovarian cysts and uterine fibroids can lead to chronic discomfort.

Emerging evidence also suggests cannabis may benefit individuals with female orgasmic disorder, which is a condition where a woman has difficulty reaching an orgasm.

These additions mark the first expansion of Illinois' medical cannabis program since 2019, bringing the total number of qualifying conditions to 56.

"We carefully review petitions using expert opinion and the most up-to-date evidence to make decisions that best serve Illinois residents," IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra said.

For a full list of eligible conditions, visit the Illinois Department of Public Health’s website.