Cannabis Edibles & ER Visits: A Guide by GateHouse

Cannabis edibles have surged in popularity across the United States, particularly as marijuana legalization expands in many places and more consumers seek alternatives to smoking. However, this growing trend comes along with serious health risks that are sending increasing numbers of individuals to the emergency room.

Understanding the risks of marijuana edibles and knowing when to seek help for cannabis overconsumption can make the difference between a manageable, maybe enjoyable experience and a medical emergency.

Today, many ask: What is the connection between cannabis edibles and ER visits?

The short answer to this question often includes the delayed effects of marijuana edibles and the user’s tolerance. The delayed onset of marijuana edibles leads many to overconsume them, creating intense or unexpected reactions accidentally.

This negative response can be prevalent if the user is not familiar with the effects of edibles or has a low tolerance for cannabis in general.

Additionally, children or unprepared adults have a high risk of accidental ingestion since cannabis edibles can be appealing and, in some cases, flavorless. These factors make severe symptoms associated with cannabis edibles more intense, leading some to seek emergency services.

Keep reading this guide by GateHouse Treatment to learn more about this valuable and trending topic. Discover other blogs about addiction recovery and more here.

Understanding What Cannabis Edibles Are and How They Work

Cannabis edibles are food products that are infused with various cannabinoids, primarily THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the psychoactive compound in marijuana.

These cannabis products come in various forms, including gummies, chocolates, baked goods, beverages, and even savory snacks. Unlike smoking cannabis, the consumer must digest edibles before they feel any effects, creating unique challenges for some users.

The potency of edibles varies significantly between products and manufacturers. Some contain as little as 2.5mg of THC per serving, while others may contain 100 mg or more. Reading labels carefully is vital to safe consumption, as the packaging doesn’t always clearly indicate appropriate dosing guidelines.

Why Edibles Lead to ER Visits

Recent research reveals alarming trends in cannabis-related emergency room visits. According to CDC data, cannabis-involved ER visits among young people increased significantly during the COVID-19 pandemic and remained elevated through 2022.

Other factors for this increase often include:

1. Delayed Effects Create Overconsumption Risk

As mentioned earlier, the primary danger of consuming marijuana edibles lies in their delayed onset. While smoking cannabis produces effects within minutes, edibles can take 30 minutes to 2 hours before users feel any change, with peak effects occurring 2-4 hours after consumption.

This delay leads some users to consume high doses before feeling the initial or total effects, resulting in dangerous overconsumption, which can be distressing.

2. Different Symptom Profiles and Tolerance Levels

Research published in the Annals of Internal Medicine found that edible-related ER visits present differently from smoking-related visits. While inhaled cannabis typically causes gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea and vomiting, edibles more commonly lead to psychiatric symptoms, including psychosis, panic attacks, and cardiovascular issues such as irregular heart rhythms.

The cannabis tolerance of the user is also essential to consider. Some users may need more THC to feel effects, while others who do not consume it as frequently may require much less.

3. Accidental Ingestion

Children are particularly vulnerable to accidental edible consumption. Canadian surveillance data show that 88% of pediatric cannabis edible-related events are associated with inadvertent ingestion, with gummy products accounting for nearly half of all cases.

Adults can also accidentally consume edibles that resemble regular food products, especially when packaging isn’t clearly labeled.

Recognizing Signs of Cannabis Overconsumption

Cannabis overdose, while rarely fatal, can cause severe distress and require medical intervention. Common symptoms include a mix of the following:

Psychological symptoms

• Intense anxiety or panic attacks
• Paranoia or psychosis
• Hallucinations
• Confusion or disorientation

Physical symptoms

• Rapid or irregular heart rate
• Chest pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• Severe dizziness
• Difficulty coordinating movement
• Excessive sweating

Symptoms from edible overconsumption can last 8-12 hours, significantly longer than inhaled cannabis effects, making medical intervention more likely.

Prevention Tips for Safer Cannabis Use

1. Start Low, Go Slow

For those choosing to use cannabis edibles, medical professionals recommend starting with no more than 2.5-5mg of THC and waiting at least 4 hours before consuming more. Even experienced cannabis users should demonstrate carefulness when taking edibles due to their different effects profile.

2. Secure Storage

Proper storage prevents accidental ingestion, especially by children. Store all cannabis products in locked containers, out of reach and sight of minors. Never leave marijuana edibles in areas where they might be mistaken for regular food.

3. Avoid Mixing Substances

Never combine cannabis edibles with alcohol or other substances. This mix of substances increases the risk of adverse effects and can lead to dangerous impairment.

4. Purchase from Licensed Sources

Buy edibles from licensed dispensaries that follow state regulations for testing, labeling, and packaging. Unregulated products may contain unknown THC concentrations or harmful additives.

What to Do in Case of Overconsumption

If you or someone you know experiences cannabis overconsumption:

Stay Calm and Create a Safe Environment

• Move to a quiet, comfortable space
• Stay with the person experiencing symptoms
• Provide reassurance that effects are temporary

Provide Basic Care

• Encourage slow, deep breathing
• Offer water to stay hydrated
• Avoid additional stimulation (loud noises, bright lights)

Seek Medical Help When Necessary

Call 911 or visit the nearest medical emergency center after ingesting cannabis edibles if experiencing:

• Severe chest pain or heart palpitations
• Difficulty breathing
• Persistent vomiting
• Severe panic that doesn’t improve
• Any symptoms causing serious concern

Be honest with medical professionals about cannabis consumption. This information helps them provide appropriate care without judgment.

Moving Forward Safely to Limit Edible-Related ER Visits

Cannabis edible-related emergency room visits represent a growing public health concern that affects users of all ages. For those who choose to use cannabis edibles, following safe consumption practices is essential. Taking these steps can make all the difference in your experience with responsible consumption of cannabis edibles.

How GateHouse Treatment Can Help

If you’re struggling with overusing cannabis or have experienced adverse consequences from your consumption, help is available. Recovery from substance use disorders (SUDs) is not only possible but also manageable with the proper support and treatment approach.

GateHouse Treatment understands that addiction affects everyone differently. Our center provides:

• Comprehensive Assessment: Our team evaluates your unique situation and develops individualized treatment plans.
• Multiple Levels of Care: From intensive outpatient programs to partial hospitalization, we offer flexible treatment options.
• Dual Diagnosis Treatment: We address co-occurring mental health conditions like anxiety and depression.
• Family Support: Our family program helps loved ones understand addiction and support recovery.
• Long-term Recovery Focus: We provide tools and skills for sustained sobriety.

For immediate assistance or to learn more about our addiction treatment programs, contact GateHouse Treatment at (855) 448-3588 or online.

Our compassionate addiction recovery is available 24/7 to provide confidential support and help you take the first step toward recovery.