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Price Hike Adds To Sticker Shock For Medical Marijuana

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — One of Minnesota's medical marijuana manufacturers has raised its prices after less than a month in business.

Dr. Kyle Kinglsey of Minnesota Medical Solutions told the Associated Press Thursday the company raised prices on its oils, vapors and liquids by 15 percent to 20 percent. The increase adds to a cost that many patients are struggling to afford. Insurance does not cover the medication, which became legal July 1.

Kingsley says more patients used a low-income discount than expected, forcing the company to spread out costs. And low program enrollment makes it hard to save on mass production costs.

He says he hopes to lower costs in the future.

The state's other manufacturer, LeafLine Labs, says it has no plans to increase prices.

(© Copyright 2015 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

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