Pediatric cannabis edible exposures jumped 5-fold after dispensaries opened in Massachusetts

Pediatric edible cannabis exposures increased five-fold after Massachusetts recreational dispensaries opened. Age under 10 was associated with bradypnea, hypertension, hospital admission, and need for respiratory support. Overall, 16% required respiratory support and 34% required hospital admission. Respiratory support was associated with lethargy, bradypnea, hypercarbia, seizure, and hypertension.

Retrospective chart review at a single tertiary care academic medical center covering a 28-month period. Included children under 18 evaluated in the ED for edible cannabis exposure without co-ingestion of other substances. 32 cases identified.

Edible cannabis products are particularly dangerous for young children because they are often packaged in appealing forms (gummies, chocolates) and can cause more severe effects than inhalation due to delayed onset and higher bioavailability. The 5-fold increase after dispensary opening suggests a direct policy consequence.

As more states legalize recreational cannabis, the pediatric safety of edible products becomes a growing public health concern. Child-resistant packaging and public awareness about keeping edibles out of children's reach are critical harm reduction measures.

Single center, small sample (32 cases). No THC dose quantification. Cannot determine true population incidence. Retrospective design may miss cases not presenting to this hospital.