Do you know that some derivatives of Cannabis sativa can be used to ease symptoms of certain medical conditions? Currently, 35 American states allow physicians to prescribe medical marijuana to manage patient symptoms. However, you need to first check with a doctor to see if you qualify to apply for a medical marijuana prescription card.

What Is a Medical Marijuana Prescription Card?

If you have a debilitating medical condition, you can use marijuana if a doctor certifies in writing that the product will alleviate the symptoms. The physician must also certify that the drug's health benefits outweigh the risks. 

In such a case, you can register as a medical marijuana patient and get a prescription card. Once you have the card, you become an authorized purchaser, and you can buy it from licensed vendors without violating the law.

When Should You Apply for a Medical Marijuana Prescription Card?

Commonly, marijuana is used as a pain reliever, and it helps alleviate chronic pains and aches, primarily those related to aging. Since it isn't as addictive as opioids, the drug works as an effective alternative to paracetamol or ibuprofen.

The laws surrounding applying and issuing a medical marijuana prescription card in the United States vary from state to state. Thus, you need to check with your state's health department if your condition qualifies. 

Generally, you can apply for the prescription card if you have any of these conditions:

• HIV and AIDS

• Multiple sclerosis

• Epilepsy and seizures

• Migraines

• Chronic pain

• Glaucoma

• Parkinson's disease

• Fibromyalgia

• Severe nausea

Your primary care physician may advise you to apply for the card if symptoms of any of these conditions impact your quality of life. The drug is primarily recommended if symptoms significantly affect your mental or physical health or if they prevent you from carrying out daily activities.

How Do You Get a Medical Marijuana Prescription Card?

The first step to getting the card is consulting your primary care physician. They will assess your condition and determine if it requires medical marijuana. They will also discuss the benefits to expect and possible side effects.

The process of applying for the card varies by state. However, you will need to access your state's online portal and sign up for the medical marijuana registry. During the registration, you need to prove that your physician has approved the use of cannabis.

Although Cannabis sativa is illegal in the United States, some states have legalized its medical use by people with qualifying conditions. Before getting a medical marijuana prescription card, your primary care provider must certify that you have a debilitating condition whose symptoms can be alleviated by the drug.