If you’re a medical marijuana patient in Louisiana, you may have noticed that prices at dispensaries may feel a bit steep.
Why’s that, and how much can you expect to pay?
Between strict regulations, limited supply, and multiple product categories, there’s a lot to unpack.
But, no need to worry! We’ll break down everything you need to know about cannabis pricing in Louisiana, from what affects the costs to how much you can expect to pay.
Let’s get started!
So, What Are Considered Consumables in Louisiana?
Visit any Louisiana dispensary, and you’ll notice that you have quite a few options to choose from. And that’s a great thing! Each product is designed to target specific medical needs and help you find the treatment that works best for you.
What you need to know is that in Louisiana, “consumables” refer to cannabis products that are meant to be ingested, inhaled, or used so that the product will be absorbed into the body.
Some of the most common cannabis consumables in Louisiana include:
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- Flower (Cannabis Bud): Starting in 2021, you can find raw, smokable cannabis flowers at licensed dispensaries in Louisiana.
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- Tinctures: Tinctures are best used sublingually (under the tongue), as they are quicker to absorb. They can also be added to foods and beverages.
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- Topical Creams: These include cannabis-infused body lotions, oils, and balms, which are typically applied directly to the skin.
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- Edibles: They come in different forms, like gummies or chocolate, and provide longer-lasting effects.
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- Metered-dose Inhalers: Great if you want a fast and precise way of administering cannabis
- Capsules: These “cannabis pills” are dosage-controlled and usually have a slow-release effect.
Your shortcut to cheaper weed starts here.
Average Pricing for Cannabis Consumables in Louisiana
Different factors can influence the cost of medical marijuana in Louisiana, such as product type, quality, or the dispensary’s location. The average price for 3.5 grams of high-quality flower is between $35 and $85.
Here’s a more detailed breakdown of the average price by product type. Keep in mind that these are just estimates, and prices can vary by dispensary, location, or discount programs.
| Product Type | Size | Average Price |
| Flower (Cannabis bud) | 3.5 grams (⅛ oz.) | $35 – $85 |
| Tinctures | 500 mg bottle | $50 – $70 |
| Gummies | 10-pack (10 mg each) | $30 – $40 |
| Inhalers | Metered-dose device | $80 – $100 |
| Topicals | 50 mg cream or balm | $25 – $45 |
| Capsules | 30-count (10 mg each) | $50 – $70 |
Why Is Medical Marijuana So Expensive in Louisiana? 6 Factors Driving the Costs
Although prices have dropped since legal sales began in 2019, medical marijuana patients in Louisiana still have higher costs compared to other states.
So, what’s behind the high sticker price?
1. Limited Supply and Minimal Competition
There are only two companies authorized to cultivate and produce marijuana in Louisiana right now. Since there’s almost no competition and dispensaries rely on these producers, there’s little room for price flexibility.
2. Strict Regulations
Producers must meet very strict standards for testing, packaging, and tracking. While clear and strict regulations are necessary to protect patients, the rise in operational costs is ultimately passed on to the consumer.
3. Taxation
While there is no sales tax on medical marijuana, Louisiana imposes a 7% excise tax on the gross price of cannabis. This tax is usually added to the final retail price.
4. Home Cultivation Is Prohibited
Unlike other states, qualifying patients are not allowed to cultivate medical cannabis themselves. They must rely on state-run dispensaries to get their treatment.
5. No Insurance Coverage
Patients must pay out-of-pocket for their medical marijuana, and costs can quickly add up.
6. Market Maturity
Louisiana’s medical marijuana market is relatively new compared to other states. As the market evolves and new legislation is drafted, prices will likely decrease too.
How Much Medical Marijuana Can You Buy at a Louisiana Dispensary
There are clear limits on how much medical marijuana you can buy in Louisiana. These rules are designed to regulate the distribution and use of medical cannabis and to ensure that every patient receives appropriate treatment.
For example, you can only purchase up to 2.5 ounces of smokable cannabis (flower buds) every 14 days. When it comes to tinctures, edibles, capsules, topicals, and inhalers, you are allowed to purchase a 30-day supply based on your medical needs and your doctor’s recommendation.
Dispensaries in Louisiana are required to keep a record of each transaction (how much you purchased, the type of product bought, etc.) to make sure that patients don’t exceed the legal amount.
Can You Pay by Card at a Louisiana Dispensary?
No. Dispensaries in Louisiana (and other states) don’t accept credit card payments due to federal regulations. Because medical marijuana is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance, credit card companies in the US can’t process cannabis related payments. You can pay using cash (most dispensaries have ATMs on site), mobile payment apps, and debit cards.
How a Medical Marijuana Card Can Help You Keep Costs Down
Holding a medical marijuana card in Louisiana is the only way to legally buy cannabis (recreational use is not allowed here). An MMJ card can also help you save money in the long term by accessing loyalty programs and patient-only discounts.
But there’s one more, less evident benefit. When you get your recommendation from a certified physician, the dosage is more precise. This can help you avoid trial-and-error spending on products that may not fit your needs.
Getting your medical marijuana card through Elevate Holistics is fast (less than 15 minutes) and 100% online. If you’re not approved, you’ll get your money back – guaranteed, so there are no risks in starting the process.
Book your appointment today and start saving during your next dispensary visit.
