The legalization of cannabis appears to result in higher rates of cannabis poisoning. Children in particular are at higher risk, reports a research team in the journal Addiction.

The review brings together the results of 30 studies that collectively show an overall increase in intoxications following cannabis legalization or decriminalization. In studies looking at the medical use of cannabis, the risk of poisoning was higher than in studies looking at recreational use. However, studies that did not show an overall increase in poisoning often revealed a higher risk in analyzes of subgroups, e.g. B. in children or in people who have been admitted to the intensive care unit.

dr Rose Cairns from the University of Sydney summarized: “Although the results of the studies are quite mixed, almost all point to an increase in cannabis poisoning after a change in cannabis laws.” It is likely that legalization will increase cannabis use, leading to an increase in poisoning. Maybe more people are thinking: If it's legal, it must be safe.

Cairns further stated: “The increasing use of edibles such as jelly beans and chocolate containing cannabis appears to be an important factor in the increase in cases of poisoning, particularly among children. The effects of edible cannabis come later than smoking. This leads to a higher risk of poisoning as people tend to consume larger amounts. This is worrying because such edibles are particularly appealing to children.”

Cannabis intoxication causes lethargy, drowsiness, dizziness, high blood pressure, palpitations, increased heart rate, nausea, vomiting, irritability, restlessness, coma, and central nervous system slowdown. In children, the risk of severe poisoning up to and including coma and severe effects on the nervous and cardiovascular systems is particularly high.

Quelle: DOI 10.1111/add.16280