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.

Exploring CBD's Role in Epilepsy Management

Isabella Romo
Oct 7
4 min read

Updated: Oct 8

Living with epilepsy can be challenging. Seizures can strike unexpectedly, and managing them often means juggling medications and lifestyle changes. Recently, many people have been curious about how CBD might help. We want to share what I’ve learned about CBD’s role in epilepsy management. It’s a topic that deserves clear, straightforward information.

Understanding Epilepsy and Its Challenges

Epilepsy is a neurological condition that causes repeated seizures. These seizures happen because of sudden bursts of electrical activity in the brain. For many, traditional medications help control seizures. But for some, seizures remain frequent and hard to manage.

Living with epilepsy means more than just dealing with seizures. It can affect your mood, sleep, and daily activities. Finding effective treatments is crucial. That’s why exploring new options like CBD is so important.

Close-up view of a bottle of CBD oil on a wooden table

CBD Benefits for Epilepsy

CBD, or cannabidiol, is a 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 many functions, including nerve activity.

Research shows that CBD may help reduce the frequency and severity of seizures. For example, the FDA has approved a CBD-based drug called Epidiolex for certain types of epilepsy, like Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome. This approval highlights CBD’s potential as a treatment option.

Here are some key benefits of CBD for epilepsy:

Seizure reduction: Many patients report fewer seizures after starting CBD.
Improved quality of life: Less frequent seizures can mean better sleep, mood, and energy.
Fewer side effects: Compared to some traditional medications, CBD may have a gentler side effect profile.

If you’re considering CBD, it’s important to talk with your healthcare provider. They can help you understand how it might fit into your treatment plan.

For those interested in learning more about CBD for epilepsy, there are resources available to guide you through the process safely.

Eye-level view of a medical professional holding a CBD oil dropper

Which CBD is Best for Epilepsy?

Not all CBD products are created equal. When it comes to epilepsy, quality and consistency matter a lot. Here’s what to look for:

Full-spectrum vs. isolate: Full-spectrum CBD contains all the cannabinoids and terpenes from the plant, which may work together for better effects. Isolate is pure CBD without other compounds.
Third-party testing: Choose products tested by independent labs. This ensures purity and accurate CBD levels.
Dosage: Start low and go slow. Epilepsy treatment often requires precise dosing, so work with your doctor to find the right amount.
Form: CBD comes in oils, capsules, gummies, and more. Oils allow for flexible dosing, which can help manage seizures.

Remember, the best CBD for epilepsy fits your needs and is used under medical supervision.

High angle view of various CBD products on a white surface

How to Incorporate CBD into Your Epilepsy Management

If you decide to try CBD, here are some practical steps to get started:

Consult your doctor: This is the most important step. Your doctor can monitor your progress and adjust other medications if needed.
Choose a reputable source: Look for licensed dispensaries or trusted brands with clear labeling.
Track your seizures: Keep a journal to note any changes in seizure frequency or intensity.
Be patient: CBD effects may take time. Don’t expect overnight results.
Watch for side effects: Some people experience fatigue, changes in appetite, or diarrhea. Report any issues to your healthcare provider.

Using CBD alongside your current treatment can be a helpful addition, but it’s not a replacement for prescribed medications unless advised by your doctor.

Navigating Medical Marijuana Certification in Iowa

For qualifying Iowa patients, getting a medical marijuana card can open doors to legal access to CBD and other cannabis products. The process is designed to be straightforward and supportive.

Here’s how you can get started:

Check eligibility: Certain medical conditions, including epilepsy, qualify for medical marijuana in Iowa.
Find a certified doctor: You’ll need a healthcare provider who can recommend medical marijuana - that's where we come in!
Apply for the card: Submit your application through the Iowa Department of Public Health.
Access dispensaries: Once approved, you can purchase CBD products legally from licensed dispensaries.

Here at Iowa Marijuana Card, we aim to make this process easy and accessible. They provide excellent support to help you every step of the way.

Exploring CBD as part of epilepsy management can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right information and support, you can make informed decisions that may improve your quality of life. Remember, you’re not alone on this journey. Reach out, ask questions, and take it one step at a time.

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!