Accidental ingestion of cannabis edibles by young children has become an increasing health concern, with doctors warning parents that products resembling sweets, chocolates and other familiar snacks can cause serious poisoning.
Recent reports have highlighted a sharp rise in accidental cannabis exposures among young children. US surveillance data have also documented increases in unintentional cannabis ingestion among children aged 10 and below.
Why edibles can be dangerous
Cannabis edibles contain tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the compound responsible for cannabis’s intoxicating effects. Unlike smoking, the effects of an edible can take 30 minutes to two hours to appear, making the consequences of accidental ingestion difficult to recognise initially.
Children are particularly vulnerable because of their smaller body size. After consuming THC, they may develop extreme sleepiness, confusion, difficulty walking or sitting upright, vomiting or breathing difficulties. In some cases, hospitalisation may be necessary.
Keep cannabis products away from children
The CDC advises people who use cannabis products to store them in locked, child-resistant containers, away from children’s sight and reach. This is especially important because some products are packaged to resemble popular sweets or snacks.
Parents and caregivers should also avoid leaving edible products in handbags, kitchen cupboards or bedside areas where children can access them.
If a child may have consumed a cannabis product, parents should seek urgent medical advice or contact their local poison control service. If the child has severe symptoms or difficulty breathing, emergency medical care should be sought immediately.
Preventing accidental exposure begins with treating cannabis edibles like medicines or other potentially harmful substances — securely stored, clearly identified and completely out of children’s reach.