Does nausea and appetite loss qualify in South Dakota?
Yes. The South Dakota Medical Cannabis Program lists Severe nausea (except nausea associated with pregnancy) as a qualifying condition. A South Dakota-licensed provider still has to evaluate you and agree that cannabis is appropriate.
About nausea and appetite loss
Stronger evidence. There is conclusive evidence that oral cannabinoids treat chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, and limited evidence that they increase appetite and reduce weight loss in HIV/AIDS.
Symptoms South Dakota patients most often hope to ease:
- Nausea and vomiting during chemotherapy
- Loss of appetite
- Unwanted weight loss
- Food aversions and changes in taste
- Nausea that does not respond to standard medicines
Read more: medical marijuana for nausea and appetite loss.
How to get certified in South Dakota
- Confirm you have a debilitating medical condition listed in SDCL 34-20G-1.
- Visit a physician, PA or APRN for an in-person exam and get a written certification.
- Apply online at the Department of Health medical cannabis portal within 90 days of the certification date.
- Upload a copy of your unexpired photo ID and a 2x2 passport-style photo, and name up to two dispensaries and any caregiver.
- Pay $75, or $20 if your household income is under 130% of the federal poverty level, plus $20 if you want to grow at home.
- Wait for review, usually 2 to 4 days, then about 4 to 10 days for the card to arrive by mail.
South Dakota requires your first certification visit in person. Renewals can usually be done online.
Costs and timeline
- State fee: $75 ($20 for households under 130% of the federal poverty level)
- Card lasts: Up to 1 year (expiration set by the practitioner)
- Processing: Applications typically reviewed within 2 to 4 days; mailed card arrives in about 4 to 10 days
- Patient limit: 3 oz of cannabis plus product amounts set by Department rules
- Home grow: 2 flowering and 2 non-flowering plants if the card allows cultivation ($20 add-on)
- Recreational sales: Not legal
- First visit online: No — in person first
See the full South Dakota cost breakdown and South Dakota program overview.
Other qualifying conditions in South Dakota
- ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease)
- Cachexia & wasting syndrome
- Cancer
- Chronic pain
- Crohn's & IBD
- Epilepsy & seizures
- HIV/AIDS
- Multiple sclerosis
- PTSD
- Severe muscle spasms & spasticity
Nausea & appetite loss in nearby states
Frequently asked questions
Do I need medical records for nausea and appetite loss?
How long does certification take in South Dakota?
Can I renew online in South Dakota?
Sources
- Medical Cannabis Program - South Dakota Department of Health
- Patients, Caregivers & Practitioners - South Dakota Department of Health
- SDCL 34-20G-1 Definitions
- SDCL 34-20G-29 Registry card application and fee waiver
- SDCL 34-20G-43 Expiration of registry identification card
- SDCL 34-20G-5.1 Certification not authorized
- National Academies — The Health Effects of Cannabis and Cannabinoids (2017)
This guide is general information, not medical or legal advice. Laws change — confirm details with your state agency. State facts last checked October 7, 2026.