Why do I need an Iowa medical marijuana card?

An Iowa medical marijuana card shows that your name has been added to the Iowa medical marijuana registry by a licensed Iowa physician and that the patient is a legal Iowa registered medical marijuana patient. With this card, you can: 1. Buy marijuana from dispensaries in the state of Iowa 2. Possess marijuana and marijuana products in the state of Iowa 3. Consume marijuana and marijuana products in the state of Iowa

Do I qualify for medical marijuana in the state of Iowa?

Iowa's Department of Health has approved a number of qualifying conditions that allow patients to access medical marijuana in Iowa. The qualifying conditions identified by the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services include: Cancer (if the illness or its treatment produces severe or chronic pain, nausea or severe vomiting, cachexia or severe wasting), Seizures, Crohn's disease, Chronic pain, Multiple Sclerosis with severe and persistent muscle spasms, AIDS or HIV, Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Parkinson's disease, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Any terminal illness with a probable life expectancy of under one year, Ulcerative colitis, Severe intractable pediatric autism with self-injurious or aggressive behaviors, Severe intractable autism with self-injurious or aggressive behaviors, and Corticobasal Degeneration.

Am I guaranteed to get approved for medical marijuana after my appointment?

We can't guarantee approval for anyone, as the doctor is the only person that makes the determination whether or not a patient qualifies. To make it more likely that you receive approval from the doctor, we recommend that you bring as much information as possible to your appointment regarding your medical condition and past treatments. However, you do not have to worry as the entire cost of an appointment will be a nominal flat fee if you, for whatever reason, are not approved by the doctor.

When will I receive my identification card?

Patients will receive their identification card within 1 week of application, if their application is approved.

What is the cost of an Iowa medical marijuana card?

We believe cost shouldn't be a barrier. We offer payment options, including monthly plans and discounts for veterans and referrals. After your first appointment, follow-ups are free for 12 months.

Will my insurance or Medicaid cover the cost of medical marijuana?

Right now, insurance and Medicaid don't cover medical marijuana costs. It's always a good idea to check with your provider for the latest updates.

Can minors get a medical marijuana card?

Yes, minors are allowed to get a medical card but they must have a designated caregiver. The parent or legal guardian will apply for the card on behalf of the patient, and once the card is issued, the parent or legal guardian will then apply to be the designated caregiver. The minor will not be issued a card, only the caregiver will.

How long does an Iowa medical marijuana card last?

An Iowa medical marijuana card is valid for one year from the date of issuance. You will need to renew your card annually by scheduling a follow-up appointment with a licensed Iowa physician before your card expires. It's recommended to start the renewal process at least 30 days before your expiration date to ensure continuous access to medical marijuana.

Can I use my Iowa medical marijuana card in other states?

Iowa does not currently have reciprocity agreements with other states, which means your Iowa medical marijuana card is only valid within Iowa. However, some states do recognize out-of-state medical marijuana cards. If you're traveling, it's important to research the specific laws of the state you're visiting, as medical marijuana laws vary significantly from state to state.

What forms of medical marijuana are available in Iowa?

Iowa allows several forms of medical marijuana products including oils, tinctures, capsules, topicals, and other manufactured forms. The state does not permit smoking or vaping of raw plant material. All products must be purchased from state-licensed dispensaries and contain no more than 4.5 grams of THC per 90-day supply. Products are available in various CBD to THC ratios to meet different patient needs.

CBD Benefits for Epilepsy Management

Isabella Romo
Sep 26, 2025
4 min read

Updated: Sep 29, 2025

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Living with epilepsy can be challenging. Finding effective ways to manage seizures is a priority for many. Recently, CBD has gained attention as a potential aid in epilepsy treatment. I want to share what I’ve learned about how CBD might help and what you should know if you’re considering it.

Understanding CBD epilepsy treatment: What is CBD?

CBD, or cannabidiol, is a natural compound found in the cannabis plant. Unlike THC, it doesn’t cause a “high.” Instead, it interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which helps regulate various functions like mood, sleep, and even nerve signaling.

For epilepsy, this interaction is important. CBD may help calm overactive nerve signals that cause seizures. It’s available in oils, capsules, gummies, and other forms, making it easy to incorporate into daily routines.

If you’re curious about how to get started, it’s good to know that medical marijuana programs can provide legal access to CBD products. This makes it safer and more reliable than buying from unregulated sources.

Does CBD affect seizures?

One of the most important questions is whether CBD actually impacts seizures. Research shows promising results, especially for certain types of epilepsy like Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome. These are severe forms that often don’t respond well to traditional medications.

Studies have found that CBD can reduce the frequency and severity of seizures in many patients. It doesn’t work the same for everyone, but for some, it’s been life-changing. The FDA has even approved a CBD-based drug called Epidiolex for these conditions.

It’s important to remember that CBD is not a cure. Instead, it’s a tool that can help manage symptoms alongside other treatments. Always talk to your healthcare provider before starting CBD to ensure it fits your treatment plan.

How to use CBD safely for epilepsy management

If you decide to try CBD, safety should be your top priority. Here are some practical tips to keep in mind:

Start low and go slow - Begin with a small dose and increase gradually. This helps you monitor how your body reacts.
Choose quality products - Look for CBD that’s third-party tested for purity and potency. Avoid products with THC if you want to prevent psychoactive effects.
Keep a seizure diary - Track your seizures, doses, and any side effects. This information is valuable for you and your doctor.
Watch for interactions - CBD can interact with some medications, including anti-seizure drugs. Always inform your healthcare provider about all supplements you’re taking.
Be patient - It may take weeks to notice changes. Consistency is key.

Using CBD responsibly can maximize benefits and minimize risks. Remember, it’s part of a bigger picture that includes medical care, lifestyle, and support.

What does the research say about CBD and epilepsy?

The scientific community has been studying CBD’s effects on epilepsy for several years. Clinical trials have shown that many patients experience fewer seizures and improved quality of life. For example:

A 2017 study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that CBD reduced seizures by nearly 40% in patients with Dravet syndrome.
Another trial showed similar results for Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, with some patients experiencing a 50% reduction in seizures.

Researchers believe CBD’s anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties play a role. It may help stabilize nerve activity and reduce brain inflammation, which can trigger seizures.

While more research is needed to understand long-term effects and optimal dosing, the current evidence supports CBD as a promising option for epilepsy management.

How to access CBD for epilepsy in Iowa

If you’re in Iowa and interested in exploring CBD for epilepsy, the state’s medical marijuana program can help. Qualifying patients can apply for a medical marijuana card, which allows legal access to CBD and other cannabis products.

Here’s a simple process to get started:

Check eligibility - Epilepsy is a qualifying condition in Iowa’s program.
Get a certification - A licensed healthcare provider must certify that you have epilepsy and could benefit from medical marijuana - that's where we come in!
Apply for the card - Submit your application through the Iowa Department of Public Health.
Purchase from licensed dispensaries - Once approved, you can buy CBD products that meet state regulations.

This process ensures you get safe, tested products and professional guidance. At Iowa Marijuana Card, we’re here to walk you through each step, from your evaluation to your application. For more details on medical marijuana and epilepsy, check out our blog for weekly updates.

Embracing a holistic approach to epilepsy management

CBD can be a valuable part of managing epilepsy, but it’s not the whole story. Combining it with other strategies can improve your overall well-being:

Medication adherence - Keep taking prescribed anti-seizure drugs unless your doctor advises otherwise.
Healthy lifestyle - Regular sleep, a balanced diet, and stress management can reduce seizure triggers.
Support networks - Connect with epilepsy support groups or counselors for emotional help.
Regular check-ups - Stay in touch with your healthcare team to monitor progress and adjust treatments.

Taking a well-rounded approach helps you feel more in control and supported on your journey.

Get Ready for Medical Marijuana

We are now seeing medical marijuana patients in Iowa! Don’t wait to get the relief you deserve! Schedule an evaluation online today with one of our knowledgeable, compassionate marijuana doctors via telemedicine!

Doctors Who Care.

Relief You Can Trust.

Helping everyone achieve wellness safely and conveniently through increased access to medical marijuana. Our focus on education, inclusion, and acceptance will reduce stigma for our patients by providing equal access to timely information and compassionate care.

If you have any questions, simply give us a call at 866-443-1122, send us an email at info@iowamarijuanacard.com, or schedule a medical marijuana evaluation to start getting relief you can trust today!

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