Cannabis Edibles and Inquisitive Children: The Reasons Behind the Increase in Poison Control Calls and Important Information for Parents

What if, however, the cookie is more than just a cookie?

Cannabis-infused items, particularly edibles that taste and look like regular snacks, are becoming more widely available as cannabis legalization spreads throughout the United States. Many of these products, which range from chocolate bars and lollipops to gummy bears and brownies, are almost identical to their kid-friendly counterparts. And it is turning into a significant issue.

According to a research brief in Pediatrics, more than 4,100 reports for cannabis exposure in children aged 0 to 9 were made to U.S. poison control centers between 2017 and 2019. Edibles accounted for around half of all calls.

These figures are concerning, and they are increasing more quickly in jurisdictions where marijuana is legal.

The True Danger of a Sweet Delight

Which age group participates in these calls the most frequently? three to five-year-old preschoolers.

From a developmental perspective, this makes sense. Although they are not yet mature enough to comprehend danger, children at this age are nimble, intelligent, and insatiably curious. That dubious-smelling brownie appears to be dessert to them. It is a treat, not a danger, that neon gummy.

The majority of these dietary exposures caused quite minor effects. However, 1.4% were categorized as severe, with symptoms including vomiting, decreased breathing, excessive tiredness, and in rare instances, coma, while 15% were categorized as moderate.

Edibles are dangerous for reasons other than their contents. That is what:

Doses are frequently erratic and concentrated.

The effects take a long time to manifest.

Before anyone notices, a toddler can consume multiple meals.

Remember that this study only included instances that were reported. The actual number of cannabis exposures in youngsters is probably larger because some cases might have gone completely unreported or ignored.

Why Children Are Particularly at Risk from Edibles

Why are edibles particularly risky in a home with kids?

They frequently resemble appetizers. Consider chips, cookies, or candy.

When used in little doses, they are powerful. For a youngster, what is considered a normal dose for an adult is frequently toxic.

Even adults can unintentionally ingest too much of them. Consider a young child who lacks self-control.

How Parents Can Ensure Children's Safety Cannabis

Whether legal or not, cannabis edibles require the same level of caution as prescription drugs, cleaning products, and alcohol. Here's how to take the initiative:

1. Store delicacies in a lockable space rather than merely "out of reach."

Avoid depending on the top shelf. Just as you would with medication or sharp objects, use childproof containers and keep them out of reach.

2. Avoid purchasing delicacies that resemble candies.

Avoid packaging that mimics snacks or is cartoonish or colorful. Select goods with obvious labels and hard for kids to confuse with treats.

3. Make safety discussions commonplace.

Get comfortable asking when you are with friends or family: "Hey, just a heads-up, our kiddo's still pretty curious and fast with her hands." Do you have anything she might get into, such as food, matches, or medications?

At first, it may feel weird. Asking if there is a pool or a pet, for example, should be routine rather than accusatory. Most folks will comprehend. It is still worthwhile to inquire even if they don't.

Recognize the Symptoms of Cannabis Exposure in Children If your child exhibits any of these following a suspected exposure, contact Poison Control at 1-800-222-12222 or seek emergency medical attention:

Too much slumber or trouble waking

Vomiting

Speech slurring or difficulty walking

Problems with breathing

Unresponsiveness or seizures

A More Comprehensive Cultural Discussion

This is about adjusting to a new normal, not about criticizing cannabis use. Marijuana needs to be handled with the same caution and safety as any other adult product as it enters more homes.

Children have no idea what THC is. Their desire for the cookie is obvious.

Quick Takeaways: More children are being referred to poison control due to cannabis exposure, particularly from edibles.

The most vulnerable are preschoolers (ages 3–5).

Although edibles frequently resemble snacks, they can have serious side effects in young children.

Keep things locked away, steer clear of kid-friendly packaging, and have frank conversations about safety.