What You Need To Know To Get Started With Medical Marijuana In 2025

It was only a few years ago that the concept of medical marijuana was taboo, but now, with a rapid increase in acceptance right across the United States and other parts of the world, opinions have changed considerably.

That said, if you're considering using cannabis for medical purposes, there's a lot you need to be aware of. It's key to be informed about the relevant legal pathways for acquiring the plant and to learn about the effects in detail before consuming it.

Here's a quick rundown of what you need to know to get started.

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On Medical Marijuana Cards
Anyone intending to consume cannabis as a medicine must acquire a medical marijuana card first. These cards are issued by the state and provide proof that you have a condition that qualifies for use.

Each state has its own rules for qualification, so you'll need to explore the options locally available to you. It's also worth mentioning that even if the drug isn't available to you right now, it may be in the future. For example, while currently unavailable in the state, you can sign up for the Indiana medical marijuana card waitlist today with some providers (legal frameworks are expanding all the time).

Learning About the Different Types of Treatments
Medical marijuana encompasses many different types of treatment, so if you're interested, you'd do well to learn about each one.

For example, there are several consumption methods. You've got inhalation (either via traditional joints or vaporizers) as well as edibles, which can come in the form of baked goods, candies, and tinctures (the latter of which are applied via peppet to the base of the tongue).

There are also different strains – more than 700, in fact. Each has a unique flavour, and there's the distinction between THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol) to consider. The former is responsible for the ‘high', whereas the latter results in a more heavy, relaxed feeling. Percentages of these two cannabinoids vary greatly between strains.

The Importance of Taking Things Slow
Despite its legal status, cannabis is still a powerful drug, and it's not something to be taken lightly.

The effects are particularly potent for first-time users, as tolerance builds up over time. As such, it's important to take things slowly: whether you're inhaling or consuming as an edible, start with the lowest possible dose and wait to see if you feel an effect (for edibles, you'll need to wait longer, as it takes a while for the drug to metabolize).

Remember: you can always take more, but you can't take less. Give yourself time to get used to the feeling, as if you've never experienced it before, it's sure to feel a little alien.

Wrapping Up 
The process of applying to use medical marijuana and then taking it for the first time can feel daunting at first, so be sure to take things one step at a time and don't rush anything. Soon enough, you'll be reaping the benefits this special plant can bring to your health.