Maine is one of 15 states in which those who meet certain requirements can legally use marijuana for medical purposes. This guide on how to get a medical marijuana prescription in Maine will introduce you to the steps you will need to take if you choose to use medical marijuana.

(Creative Commons photo by digitalshay)

Marijuana is designated as a Schedule I drug by the federal government and therefore cannot be prescribed by a doctor nor can it be obtained at a pharmacy. However, those that meet certain requirements and have documentation that proves a licensed physician has recommended that they use marijuana for medical purposes may legally do so in accordance with state laws and provisions.

• • NOTE: This page is provided for informational purposes only, and should not be construed as recommendation by Mahalo for any sort of illegal or unauthorized drug use. Always ensure that you are aware of all laws and risks regarding the use of marijuana before doing so. The information provided on this page was current as of April 2010 and the laws and processes described below are subject to change.

The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical or legal advice. Please contact your doctor and attorney before using the information presented here.

1. To be eligible to use medical marijuana, you must have been diagnosed by a licensed physician with one of the following "debilitating medical conditions:"

2. Chronic nausea, vomiting, extreme weight loss or loss of appetite due to AIDS or treatment for AIDS

3. Chronic nausea, vomiting, extreme weight loss or loss of appetite due to treatment of Cancer

4. Glaucoma

5. Chronic seizures

6. Persistent muscle spasms

1. To be able to possess and use marijuana for medical purposes and avoid prosecution for doing so in the state of Maine, you must have a medical certificate or document signed by an approved licensed medical professional that states:

2. That you have been diagnosed with one of the above debilitating medical conditions

3. That your physician has recommended you use marijuana to alleviate symptoms associated with your medical condition

4. That your physician has fully discussed the benefits and risks of medical marijuana use with you

5. That you have provided your physician with information about your marijuana use

6. That you are continually being treated by your physician

Although you can legally use marijuana for medical purposes if you meet the above requirements, the state of Maine does not provide any support or information as to how you can obtain marijuana or the equipment needed to grow your own marijuana. Be sure that you are fully aware of how much marijuana you can legally possess and/or grow and where and when you are permitted to use your marijuana. Seek out the advice of a legal professional or agency familiar with Maine's medical marijuana laws for more information.

Many physicians in the state of Maine and elsewhere may recommend the use of marijuana to some of their patients who are chronically ill and who they believe may benefit from its use. Before you pursue this treatment, however, you should be certain that you are aware of and fully understand the risks and benefits associated with marijuana use.

Marijuana is still illegal under federal law, although it is legalized for medical use in fourteen states. The content in this page is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical or legal advice. Please do not think that just because it is legal in your state that you can freely smoke. You must have a medical card that allows you to smoke marijuana.