Child Ate a Marijuana Edible? Immediate Action Protocol for Parents

Pediatric cannabis ingestion—almost exclusively via edibles (gummies, chocolates, baked goods) resembling regular treats—has surged 1,375% (2017-2021, National Poison Data System). THC affects children disproportionately: smaller body mass, immature blood-brain barrier, developing brain. Most exposures are non-fatal, but severe toxicity (coma, respiratory depression, intubation) occurs. Every ingestion warrants Poison Control consultation.

🚨 IMMEDIATE ACTIONS

1. STAY CALM. Your panic impairs your judgment and frightens your child.
2. CALL POISON CONTROL: 1-800-222-1222 (US, 24/7, free, confidential, interpreter available). They calculate dose/kg, advise on observation vs. ER, and notify ER if en route.
3. DO NOT INDUCE VOMITING. Aspiration risk (decreased gag reflex, sedation). Activated charcoal *not* recommended (poor THC binding, aspiration risk).
4. CALL 911 IF: Unresponsive, difficulty breathing, seizure, cyanosis, cannot be awakened.

Monitoring Protocol (While Awaiting Guidance/Transport)

• Vitals: Respiratory rate, effort, oxygen saturation (pulse ox if available), heart rate.
• Neurologic: Level of consciousness (AVPU: Alert, Voice, Pain, Unresponsive), pupil size/reactivity, muscle tone (flaccid vs. rigid), gait/ataxia.
• Behavioral: Agitation, panic, hallucinations, paradoxical excitement, profound sedation.
• GI: Nausea/vomiting (aspiration risk if altered mental status).
• Document: Product type, THC mg (label), estimated amount ingested, time of ingestion, symptoms timeline. Photo packaging.

Expected Clinical Course

• Onset: 30 min - 4 hrs (edibles: delayed, erratic absorption).
• Peak: 2-4 hrs post-ingestion.
• Duration: 6-24+ hours (longer than adults due to enterohepatic recirculation, higher body fat %).
• Symptoms: Ataxia (70%), lethargy/coma (50%), respiratory depression (10-20%), tachycardia, hypotension/hypertension, mydriasis, hypotonia, urinary incontinence.

Hospital Management (If Admitted)

• Supportive: Airway protection (intubation if GCS ≤8), O2, IV fluids, normothermia.
• Monitoring: Continuous cardiorespiratory, q1h neuro checks.
• No specific antidote. Naloxone *ineffective* (not opioid).
• Discharge when: Alert, ambulatory, tolerating PO, stable vitals x 4-6h.

Prevention: The Only Cure

1. Lock It Up: Lockbox, high shelf, separate from food. Not the fridge door, candy bowl, nightstand.
2. Child-Resistant ≠ Child-Proof: CR packaging delays, doesn't prevent.
3. No "Medicine" Language: Don't call edibles "medicine," "gummies," "treats." Call them "adult-only medicine" or "dangerous."
4. Educate All Caregivers: Grandparents, babysitters, visitors.
5. Dispose Safely: Mix with coffee grounds/cat litter, seal, trash. Or DEA take-back.

Poison Control (1-800-222-1222) is your first, best call. They are the experts. Use them.