Marijuana (cannabis) is now legal in South Africa for medical or recreational use. As a result, the availability of marijuana “edibles” containing tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), is increasing. Unfortunately, just one “edible” can contain several times the recommended adult dose of THC, and children who mistake an edible for a sweet treat can experience devastating overdose effects.
What is the difference between smoking and ingesting marijuana?
Symptoms appear quickly (within 5 to 30 minutes) after smoking or inhaling marijuana. However, symptoms usually only last an hour or two. In contrast, the onset of effects after ingesting marijuana in the form of food might take anywhere from one to four hours, and symptoms can linger for several hours.
Why are edibles so dangerous for children?
When marijuana is combined with food in an “edible” form, the most common overdose cases in children occur. This is because marijuana taken in this way has a more potent and long-lasting effect, especially in children under the age of 12.
In many cases, children mistake “edible” marijuana (such as gummy bears, brownies, lollipops, and other confections) for regular food and inadvertently consume it. Because of their size and weight, small children are in higher danger. Due to the severity of their symptoms, many young children who take marijuana edibles require hospitalisation.
What is marijuana’s long-term impact on a child?
Because it has not been thoroughly examined, the…
