Edible Marijuana Dangers for Kids

 

Marijuana (cannabis) is legal for medical or recreational use in most U.S. states. That means the availability of tempting treats that contain tetrahydrocannabinol or THC, the psychoactive ingredient in marijuana, is on the rise. Unfortunately, so is the unintentional THC poisoning risk these products pose to kids.

This is just one more reason why it is such a bad idea to legalize marijuana: a recent report form the National Poison Data System (PNDS) found that calls to poison control centers about kids aged 5 & under accidentally consuming marijuana edibles rose from 207 in 2017 to 3,054 in 2021 - a 1,375 percent increase. In 98 percent of these cases, the victims found the edibles either at home or at a friend's house.

Marijuana can be dangerous in all forms for children and adults. That's why it is important for parents to understand just how much THC is contained in edible products and how THC is absorbed in the body. Edible marijuana products often look just like regular sweets and snacks, such as gummy candies, lollipops, fudge, and other candies. It can be added in baked goods, snack foods, and desserts such as cookies, brownies, popcorn, and ice cream, as well as in sweetened beverages like soda and lemonade.

Despite their ordinary appearances, just one cookie or candy bar laced with pot can contain several times the recommended adult dose of THC. A THC edible can produce overdose effects including intoxication, altered perception, anxiety, panic, paranoia, dizziness, slurred speech, poor coordination, excessive sleepiness, breathing or heart problems. Even using marijuana one time can alter motor control, coordination, and judgment - leading to unintentional injuries and death.

Although smoking pot takes just seconds to minutes, a THC edible typically takes 30-60 minutes after being eaten. The peak effect may occur 3-4 hours after ingesting. The fact that THC-laced edibles don't take effect quickly may lead to larger amounts ingested to try to "get high" - and this can lead to overdosing.

If your child has eaten an edible, try to find out how much they ate and how much THC the product contains. Call the FREE Poison Control Hotline - 1-800-222-1222 - for fast help. If symptoms are severe, call 911 or go to an emergency room right away.