Medical marijuana, also called medical cannabis, can be used to treat medical conditions as recommended by a physician. Marijuana comes from the plant Cannabis sativa and contains many different chemical compounds, mainly tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). THC is the chemical compound which produces a “high” or intoxicating effect associated with marijuana use, while CBD does not produce intoxicating effects.
Who Can Use Medical Marijuana?
Federal law does not allow the use of medical marijuana but some states including Ohio have legalized it for symptom relief in certain medical conditions. Medical providers can certify with the state’s medical marijuana program and can recommend its use if there may be a benefit to the patient. However, because it is not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), medical marijuana cannot be prescribed, it can only be recommended.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) opposes medical marijuana outside of the regulatory process of the FDA. The AAP also opposes the use of marijuana in children and adolescents under the age of 21 due to the potential harms it poses.
What’s Wrong with THC?
THC can be a problem for adolescents because their brains are still growing and changing. Using THC can make it harder for them to learn, remember things, and control their feelings. It has also been linked to a reduced likelihood of completing high school, and an increased likelihood of illicit drug use and suicide attempts later in life.
What About CBD?
There are CBD products that are sold over the counter (OTC) as lotions, gummies, oils, and drinks. Many of these claim they can treat or cure diseases, but these claims are often unsupported by scientific evidence. The FDA has issued warning letters to companies selling unapproved CBD products, highlighting concerns about their safety, effectiveness, and quality. Use caution when considering these products, as they are not evaluated by regulatory authorities.
On the other hand, there are some prescription cannabidiol medications that have been scientifically studied and are FDA approved. These medications contain a highly purified CBD extract, and do not cause a "high". Patients and their families can be reassured these medicines, when prescribed by a physician and supplied by a pharmacy, have been proven to be safe and effective for a particular disease or condition.
How Is Marijuana Legalization Affecting Our Kids?
With the legalization of medical marijuana (and in some states recreational marijuana) poison centers nationally have seen an increase in children exposed to cannabis products. The number of accidental cannabis-related poisonings reported to Ohio Poison Centers for all age groups has increased 20-fold since the legalization of medical marijuana. This trend has been most prominent for children under the age of six, who have had a 36-fold increase in accidental exposures.
While adults may experience minor symptoms when taking marijuana products, kids can have more serious symptoms and are more likely to require medical attention. Some symptoms seen in kids include:
There are lots of ways to reduce the risk of exposure in children. Some tips include using a medication lock box, keeping marijuana products out of sight and reach from young kids, and avoid taking medications in front of children.
For questions or concerns about exposures you can contact your local Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222. The Poison Center lines are monitored 24/7/365 by nurses and pharmacists who can provide free medical advice in emergent and non-emergent situations.
Marcel J. Casavant, MD, treats poisoned children at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, and he’s a toxicologist at the Central Ohio Poison Center. He’s also an Emeritus Professor at The Ohio State University where he has taught Emergency Medicine and Medical Toxicology for more than thirty years.
Sarah Coffey, PharmD, CSPI
Poison Control Center
Sarah Coffey, PharmD, CSPI, is a certified poison information specialist at the Poison Center.
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