Medical Marijuana Clinic
Florida’s medical marijuana program may be an option for patients managing certain qualifying conditions — and if you’re curious whether it applies to you, we can help you find out. As part of our whole-person approach to kidney care, we offer state-required evaluations to help qualified patients understand their eligibility under Florida law. Our team will explain the process clearly and answer your questions without judgment.
In Florida, medical marijuana is available only to patients who have been diagnosed with a qualifying condition by a qualified physician and entered into the state's Medical Marijuana Use Registry. Qualifying conditions defined by the Florida Office of Medical Marijuana Use include cancer, epilepsy, glaucoma, HIV/AIDS, PTSD, ALS, Crohn's disease, Parkinson's disease, and multiple sclerosis, along with terminal conditions, chronic nonmalignant pain tied to a qualifying condition, and other debilitating conditions of the same kind or class. To take part, a patient must be a Florida resident, receive a diagnosis from a qualified physician, and obtain a state Registry Identification Card before purchasing from a licensed treatment center. Under Florida law, the initial certification requires an in-person examination by the qualified physician.
It is important to understand what the science does and does not say. The National Kidney Foundation explains that cannabis is not a treatment for kidney disease itself. Some people use it to help manage symptoms that can accompany illness, such as pain, nausea, poor appetite, sleep trouble, itchy skin, or restless legs, but the research is limited and not all of it is reassuring. The foundation notes that the long-term effects of cannabis on kidney function are not fully understood, and it advises against smoking because inhaling smoke is hard on the body. Edibles, tinctures, and topical products are generally considered gentler options, and starting at the lowest possible dose is wise because products can be stronger than expected.
Cannabis and CBD products can also interact with other medicines. The National Kidney Foundation cautions that CBD can affect blood levels of important medications, including the immunosuppressants used after a kidney transplant such as tacrolimus and cyclosporine, and that some CBD products may contain unlabeled THC or inaccurate labels. Because every person's kidney health, medications, and medical history are different, decisions about medical marijuana should always be made together with your own physician.
What we offer
What to expect
At your visit, your physician will review your medical history, current medications, and overall kidney health, and talk with you about whether you may qualify under Florida law. This is an evaluation and a conversation, not a guarantee of any outcome. If you are found eligible, your physician explains the next steps, including how the Florida Medical Marijuana Use Registry and the state Registry Identification Card work, and that the state requires an in-person examination for the initial certification. Your physician will also discuss potential risks and how cannabis or CBD might interact with your other medicines, so any decision fits your individual situation.
Why choose West Orange Nephrology?
Convenient care
Schedule your evaluation at our Winter Garden office, and stay connected to your kidney care across our hospital, dialysis, and telehealth services.
Caring approach
We take time to understand your whole health, listen to your concerns, and explain what is known and unknown without pressure or promises.
Collaborative care
Our nephrologists and nurse practitioners work together and alongside you, so any decision fits your overall care plan and medications.
Frequently asked questions
Does medical marijuana treat kidney disease?
No. Authoritative sources such as the National Kidney Foundation do not describe cannabis as a treatment for kidney disease. Some patients use it to help manage certain symptoms, but the research is limited. We offer evaluations for eligibility under Florida law, not a cure or treatment for kidney disease.
Who can qualify in Florida?
Florida's Office of Medical Marijuana Use requires that you be a Florida resident and be diagnosed with a qualifying condition by a qualified physician. Qualifying conditions include cancer, epilepsy, glaucoma, HIV/AIDS, PTSD, ALS, Crohn's disease, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, terminal conditions, and certain chronic pain, among others. Your physician determines whether you meet the criteria.
Is it safe with my kidney condition and medications?
That depends on your individual health. The National Kidney Foundation advises against smoking and notes that CBD and cannabis can interact with other medicines, including transplant medications like tacrolimus and cyclosporine. It also notes the long-term kidney effects are not fully understood. Always review your full medication list and history with your physician first.
How do I get started?
Call us at 407-297-8408 to schedule an evaluation. Your physician will review your health and explain whether you may be eligible and what the state registry and ID card process involves. Florida requires the initial certification to be done in person.
