Medical Minute: Rise In Pediatric Marijuana Poisoning Linked To THC-Infused Products

As more states legalize marijuana, reports of children being hospitalized after accidentally consuming THC-infused products have surged.

Pediatricians warn these items, often designed to look like candy or ordinary food, are highly dangerous to children.

The American Academy of Pediatrics reports a staggering 1,000% increase in marijuana poisoning cases among children over the past five years.

This year, Maine set a new record for pediatric cannabis ingestion. In separate incidents, a 4-year-old in Iowa consumed a THC bar, and a Northern Virginia mother now faces murder charges after her child died from ingesting THC gummies.

“They can have dizziness, hallucinations, high heart rate, slurred speech, and breathing problems — really scary symptoms,” said one expert. THC, the psychoactive compound in marijuana, can also cause long-term issues in children, including memory and learning impairments, mental health disorders like depression and anxiety, and a higher likelihood of future substance use.

Parents are advised to keep all THC products securely stored and out of reach. If a child is suspected of ingesting THC, immediate medical evaluation is critical.

“They need to be evaluated, and often supportive care can be given,” experts say.

For assistance, parents should call the Poison Control Center hotline at 1-800-222-1222.