Cannabis Edibles and Emergency Department Visits

LOS ANGELES- The consumption of cannabis edibles has been linked to a notable increase in emergency department (ED) visits, particularly among younger populations. Unlike inhaled cannabis, edibles have a delayed onset of effects, often leading individuals to consume higher quantities, resulting in adverse reactions. ​

A study published in the Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) analyzed data from December 30, 2018, to January 1, 2023, revealing that 539,106 cannabis-involved ED visits occurred among individuals under 25 years old in the United States. Notably, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the average weekly cannabis-involved ED visits among children aged 10 years and younger ranged from 30.4 to 71.5, compared to 18.7 to 23.2 before the pandemic.

In Canada, research indicates a similar trend. A study published in BMC Public Health examined trends in cannabis-related poisoning pediatric ED visits and hospitalizations among children aged 0-11 years from 2015 to 2021. The findings showed a significant increase in age-specific rates for cannabis-related poisoning ED visits and hospitalizations, with the largest rise occurring from 2019 to 2020. Almost half of these pediatric edible-related events involved gummy edible products. ​

The rise in cannabis-related ED visits is not confined to North America. In Ireland, concerns have been raised over the increasing availability of hexahydrocannabinol (HHC), a semi-synthetic cannabinoid legally sold in vapes and edibles. Despite its legality, HHC has been linked to intense psychotic episodes, addiction, and other adverse mental health effects, particularly among adolescents.