🔹 Medical Marijuana

• Must be diagnosed with a qualifying medical condition (varies by state)
• Requires a doctor’s recommendation or certification
• Must apply for and receive a medical marijuana card from your state

🔹 Recreational Cannabis

• No medical condition required
• Must be 21 or older (in states where it’s legal)
• Valid government-issued ID is all you need to purchase

🏥 Medical Use

• More potent or specialized products may be available (e.g., high-CBD, low-THC formulations)
• Access to certain dispensaries that may be closed to recreational users
• Priority service during supply shortages in some states

🎉 Recreational Use

• Can shop at licensed adult-use dispensaries
• Limited to products allowed under recreational laws, which may exclude some medical-grade options

Medical

• May have higher THC limits per product
• Often allowed to purchase and possess more than recreational users
• Can buy products tailored to medical needs (tinctures, capsules, topicals, etc.)

Recreational

• THC content is usually capped
• Daily purchase and possession limits are lower
• Product variety may be more focused on “recreational” appeal

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💳 Medical

• Often exempt from certain state or local taxes
• Some states offer discounts or financial assistance for medical patients
• Lower overall cost over time for frequent users

💸 Recreational

• Subject to higher taxes (sometimes 20–35%+)
• No financial aid or exemptions
• Can add up quickly for regular or high-dose users

Medical

• In many states, patients with a valid card have stronger legal protections
• May be allowed to grow more plants at home or travel with higher amounts
• Can be used as a defense in court if needed

Recreational

• Protected under state law, but with more restrictions
• Home cultivation may be limited or banned entirely
• No legal protection in states where cannabis is still illegal

Medical

• Minors (under 18) may qualify with a caregiver and physician approval
• Pediatric use allowed in many states for conditions like epilepsy or cancer

Recreational

Must be 21 or older—no exceptions

Medical

• In some states, employers and landlords must make reasonable accommodations for medical use
• Still not protected under federal law

Recreational

• No legal protections; employers and landlords can restrict use or possession

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While recreational cannabis is a great option for many adults, having a medical marijuana card can offer significant advantages—from cost savings to better product access and stronger legal protections.