Recreational Cannabis (Marijuana): How Does This Impact My Children?

In Ohio, the number of accidental poisonings related to cannabis (marijuana) products reported to Ohio Poison Centers has increased 20-fold since the sale of medical marijuana began in 2019. In fact, in 2024, Ohio is on track to see a 49% increase in edible marijuana exposures in children from 2023. This is a significant increase, but one that was expected given the legalization of recreational cannabis in Ohio. 

Cannabis Exposures on the Rise

• In 2023, 234 total edible exposure cases were reported to Ohio Poison Centers for children under the age of 6 years. During the first seven months of 2024, Ohio Poison Centers have managed 204 cannabis edible exposures in this age group. Data updated through July 31, 2024.
• Of note, there has been an increase in the number of exposures across all age groups for both edible products and all forms of cannabis.
• As cannabis products become more available in the community, an increase in exposures to these products is expected.
• In 2024, approximately 9 out of 10 exposures involving children under the age of 5 have required treatment in a healthcare facility.
  • Of these cases, 2 out of 3 patients were admitted, and 30% of the admissions required care in an ICU setting.

What Are Edibles?

Edibles is the term used to refer to any type of food products that contain cannabis, the active ingredient in marijuana. Cannabis can be infused in chocolates, gummies, chips, cookies — even juices! While these products are usually marketed toward adults, they are of particular concern because they are both visually appealing and taste good to children and adolescents.

Be aware that these products might not necessarily smell like cannabis, and thus it’s always important to read labels where cannabis products can be legally bought and consumed. These products are not safe for children.

It is important to keep edibles out of sight and locked away, like any other prescription or over-the-counter medication. Additionally, these products are not always regulated and can contain high amounts of THC, especially for younger children.

What Is THC?

Marijuana is a product of the plant Cannabis sativa. Cannabis sativa contains a substance called tetrahydrocannabinol, more commonly known at THC. THC is the substance responsible for the effects of marijuana on a person’s mental state, like when a person experiences euphoria or feels “high.”

In children and young adults, major developmental changes in the brain make marijuana use during this time particularly risky. Adding THC into their system causes dysfunction, as nerve connections form erratically and imperfectly, leading to a decrease in IQ that may not improve, affected memory, and a higher risk of lifelong substance use.

What Can Happen if My Child Eats an Edible?

If your child consumes a product containing THC, they may develop symptoms such as:

• Excessive sleepiness
• Fast heart rate
• Difficulty breathing
• Feelings of anxiety, panic or paranoia
• Nausea or vomiting
• Dizziness or weakness
• Poor coordination
• Seizures or coma (in rare cases)

The effects of eating these products can be delayed, which may put the child at risk of consuming a much higher amount before the child or a parent realizes anything is wrong.

If your child eats an edible and experiences any of these symptoms, call your local poison control center. If your child is experiencing severe symptoms, take your child to an emergency care physician immediately. Symptoms in children may be more severe depending on the amount of THC consumed.

What Can Parents Do to Help Keep Children Safe?

• Like any other medication or over-the-counter remedy, keep cannabis products out of sight and out of reach, ideally in a lockbox.
• Do not store edible cannabis products with or near food.
• Avoid using these products in the presence of children.
• Talk with anyone your child might be around about preventing access to cannabis edibles.

How Can I Talk to My Child about Edibles and Marijuana Usage?

• Having honest and age-appropriate conversations with your child is key.
• Start by sharing facts about marijuana: what it is, how it’s used, and symptoms people can develop.
• Ask your child how this topic makes them feel, to gauge their interest and comfort.
• Make sure to leave room for your child to share stories and ask questions.
• Approaching this topic in a non-judgmental way will help your child feel safe when talking to you about marijuana usage and edibles.

If you have questions or concerns about an ingestion, call the poison center at 1-800-222-1222 to speak with an expert immediately, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.