Weed has been legalized in dozens of states, however, some only allow medical cannabis while others offer both medical and recreational.
What’s the difference between recreational and medical weed?
There are many differences between recreational and medical weed, as well as plenty of similarities. The main difference is that medical cannabis is more regulated, aimed at therapeutic consumption, and requires a license. Whereas, recreational weed typically allows for a wider range of products to be available, is aimed toward those consuming for fun, and is available to anyone 21 and over.
Some states only allow medical dispensaries, with programs and regulations varying by state. While states with recreational weed have three types of dispensaries: recreational, medical, and ones that offer both.
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The main differences between recreational and medical cannabis include:
- Medical requires a license while recreational is available for anyone 21 and older. You must have a qualifying medical condition and a doctor’s approval to obtain a license.
- Some states accept out-of-state medical cards, while others such as Missouri, only accept in-state medical marijuana cards.
- Different products are available for medical versus recreational. Usually, medical products can be higher dosages. However, recreational usually has a wider selection.
- Many medical-only states have restrictions on certain types of cannabis products, such as no flower or no beverages allowed.
- Medical dispensaries typically have more CBD and ratio options.
- Depending on the state, prices may be similar or vary greatly between medical and recreational cannabis. However, medical weed usually has less tax or none at all.
- Medical-only states typically have much higher prices than recreational states.
- Medical dispensaries often have medical consultants that are able to educate you on products and what may be right for your specific needs.
- Medical patients have a prescription that limits the amount of cannabis they can purchase. Recreational users’ limit is based on local regulations; they are typically able to purchase less cannabis than medical patients.
- Recreational weed commonly has higher THC content than medical cannabis.
- Some states have regulations that cap the THC content in medical cannabis.
- Some dispensaries with both medical and recreational cannabis offer priority lines for medical patients.
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