Recommendations for the Clinical Management and Prevention of Pediatric Cannabis Edible Ingestions

Cannabis edible products pose significant health risks to children due to a wide variety of reasons. Currently, there is inconsistent governmental regulation and oversight for the manufacturing, packaging, and labeling of these products. Additionally, consumer education and harm reduction strategies are lacking, leading to an increase in the incidence of unintentional cannabis edible ingestions by the pediatric population. The variation of the components and potencies of cannabis products causes a wide range of dose-dependent adverse events within this patient population. This poses a significant challenge for clinicians treating pediatric patients who present with signs and symptoms consistent with cannabis intoxication. This article provides medical and pharmacological context on the current state of cannabis edibles in the United States, with further recommendations for the initial screening, management, and prevention of cannabis ingestions by pediatric patients.