Iowa Qualifying Conditions: Detailed Guide
About the Qualifying Medical Conditions
Below is information about each qualifying condition and the research that informed Iowa's decision to include it in the state program.
Cancer, Cachexia/Wasting Syndrome, Severe Nausea
These are approved qualifying conditions under Iowa's medical cannabis program. Iowa included these conditions based on research examining cannabinoid use among cancer patients experiencing treatment-related symptoms.
Seizure Disorders (Epilepsy)
Seizure disorders, including epilepsy, are approved qualifying conditions under Iowa's medical cannabis program. Iowa included these conditions based on clinical trial research examining CBD in patients with treatment-resistant epilepsy.
Chronic Pain
Chronic Pain is an approved qualifying condition under Iowa's medical cannabis program. Iowa included this condition based on systematic reviews examining cannabinoid use among patients with chronic pain conditions.
Multiple Sclerosis (Severe Spasms)
Multiple Sclerosis with severe muscle spasms is an approved qualifying condition under Iowa's medical cannabis program. Iowa included this condition based on clinical research examining cannabinoid use in patients with MS-related spasticity.
Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis
Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis are approved qualifying conditions under Iowa's medical cannabis program. Iowa included these conditions based on clinical research examining cannabis use in patients with inflammatory bowel conditions.
HIV/AIDS
HIV/AIDS is an approved qualifying condition under Iowa's medical cannabis program. Iowa included this condition based on research examining cannabinoid use among HIV/AIDS patients.
ALS
ALS is an approved qualifying condition under Iowa's medical cannabis program. Iowa included this condition based on research surveying ALS patients about symptom management.
Parkinson's Disease
Parkinson's Disease is an approved qualifying condition under Iowa's medical cannabis program. Iowa included this condition based on research examining cannabinoid use among Parkinson's patients.
PTSD
PTSD is an approved qualifying condition under Iowa's medical cannabis program. Iowa included this condition based on research examining cannabinoid use among patients with PTSD.
Severe, Intractable Pediatric Autism
Severe, intractable pediatric autism (with self-harm or aggression) is an approved qualifying condition under Iowa's medical cannabis program. Iowa included this condition based on emerging research examining cannabinoid use among autism patients.
Terminal Illness and Corticobasal Degeneration
Terminal illness and Corticobasal Degeneration are approved qualifying conditions under Iowa's medical cannabis program as determined by the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services.
Petition Process for Adding New Conditions
- How to Petition: Iowa residents may petition the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services to add new medical conditions. Petitions require medical documentation, scientific evidence, and professional endorsements.
- Review Timeline: Petitions are typically reviewed within approximately 180 days.
Medical Disclaimer
This page provides information about Iowa's qualifying conditions for medical cannabis. The inclusion of a condition in Iowa's program does not constitute medical advice or a guarantee of therapeutic benefit. Individual results vary. Possible side effects may include dizziness, sedation, and cognitive changes. Patients should consult healthcare providers before starting medical cannabis treatments.