Many articles have been published over the past several months warning of the dangers of edible marijuana for children. A growing number of children are consuming these edibles. A new study has found that children, especially between the ages of 3-5 years old, are at the highest risk of accidental consumptions.
In the states that have legalized marijuana use, edible marijuana has become a popular item. It comes in the form of candies, cakes, cookies, chocolate bars, potato chips, and even beef jerky. Unfortunately, children are finding these forms attractive and accidental consumption has increased. Symptoms can be moderate to severe, and include drowsiness, trouble breathing, and increase heart rate to seizures, neurological impairment, and intense breathing issues.
Many edibles come in packages with more than one adult serving. Because children can find them attractive, they are likely to eat more than one serving and overdose. One mother went public about her child’s overdose on edibles that looked like gummies. He ate 15 of them for a total THC level of 75 mg, which was 7 times the serving size.
What is the difference between smoking a joint and eating an edible? According to the American Addiction Centers (AAC), it is important to remember that both contain THC. “Some of the more pronounced differences between smoking a joint and eating an edible are reflected in the speed of onset of effects, the duration until peak effects are experienced, and the longevity of the effects.” The AAC warn that since THC is present in both forms of use, the results are “the same psychoactive qualities and potentially adverse consequences no matter how it is used.”
I do not advocate marijuana use at all and in fact, have written previous blogs about its detrimental effects. I believe that it is important for parents to be aware of the seriousness of consuming marijuana, even as edibles. What can parents do? Be aware of where your children are and what they are doing – as much as possible. Who are their friends? Who are their friends’ parents? What do those parents believe about marijuana use and consuming edibles? For parents who are already consuming edibles, experts recommend that adults keep them in a secure location, just as with any toxic substance and prescribed medicine. Also, they recommend that adults not eat them in front of children.
To learn more, please visit:
https://www.addictioncenter.com/news/2022/01/children-consuming-marijuana-edibles/
https://drugabuse.com/blog/joints-vs-edibles-how-marijuana-effects-the-body/