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This is a life-threatening emergency. Call 911 immediately, then follow these steps while waiting for help.
Cannabis Edible Ingestion by a Child
Content reviewed against published AAP, Poison Control, CDC guidelines
Last reviewed:
Cannabis edible ingestion in children has risen sharply with legalization. Edibles often resemble candy or baked goods and contain concentrated THC. Children are extremely sensitive to THC and can experience significant toxicity including lethargy, breathing problems, and rarely, coma.
Immediate actions
- Call 911 immediately
- Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 immediately
- DO NOT: Do NOT induce vomiting
Step-by-Step Response
Assess the child
Check for: drowsiness, unsteadiness, rapid heart rate, dilated pupils, and responsiveness. Note the time of ingestion — edible effects may take 30-90 minutes to onset.
Determine the amount
Check the packaging for THC content (in milligrams). Note how much of the product was consumed. Save the packaging for medical providers.
Call Poison Control
Call 1-800-222-1222. Provide: product type, THC content, estimated amount eaten, child's age and weight, time of ingestion, and symptoms. They will advise on care level.
Monitor breathing and consciousness
The main dangers are: respiratory depression (slow/shallow breathing), extreme drowsiness progressing to unresponsiveness, and potential aspiration if vomiting while obtunded.
Place in recovery position if drowsy
If child is very drowsy, place on their side to protect the airway. Watch breathing rate and effort continuously.
Go to ER
Most cannabis edible ingestions in young children require ER evaluation. Bring the product/packaging. Be honest with providers about what was consumed — they cannot help effectively without accurate information.
Hospital care
Treatment is supportive: IV fluids, monitoring, and observation until effects wear off (which can take 12-24+ hours for edibles). Intubation is rarely needed but possible in severe cases.
What NOT to Do
- ✕Do NOT induce vomiting
- ✕Do NOT assume the child will just "sleep it off" — monitor closely
- ✕Do NOT delay seeking help due to embarrassment or legal concerns — medical professionals are focused on your child's safety
- ✕Do NOT give caffeine or try to keep the child awake artificially
- ✕Do NOT leave the child alone
- ✕Do NOT withhold information from medical providers — they need to know the substance to treat properly
When to Seek Help
Call 911 if:
- Child is unresponsive or extremely difficult to rouse
- Breathing is slow, shallow, or irregular
- Child is having seizures (uncommon but possible)
- Child is vomiting while very drowsy (aspiration risk)
- Child under 1 year ingested any amount
- Any ingestion with rapid symptom progression
Go to ER if:
- Most edible ingestions in children under 6 warrant ER evaluation
- Any symptoms: drowsiness, unsteadiness, rapid heartbeat, or vomiting
- Ingestion of a high-dose product (anything labeled 10mg+ THC per serving)
- Unknown amount consumed
- Poison Control directs you to go
- Child under age 3 with any confirmed ingestion
Call your doctor if:
- Child may have had a very small taste and is showing no symptoms after 2 hours
- After Poison Control consultation if home monitoring is advised
- Follow-up after ER discharge
Age-Specific Guidance
0-1 year
Infants are most vulnerable due to small body mass. Any ingestion is extremely concerning. Effects can be profound: deep sedation, respiratory depression, and hypothermia. Immediate ER evaluation needed.
1-3 years
Most reported cases are in this age group. Toddlers find and eat edibles that look like familiar foods/candy. Effects include: lethargy, ataxia (unsteadiness), tachycardia, and vomiting. Can last 12-24+ hours.
3-6 years
Children may find edibles in purses, bags, or accessible storage. They may eat large amounts because the products taste like regular food. Even one "adult serving" (5-10mg THC) can cause significant effects.
Prevention
- Store ALL cannabis products in locked, child-resistant containers — treat like medications
- Never leave edibles on counters, tables, or in accessible bags
- Edibles that look like candy, gummies, cookies, or brownies are extremely attractive to children
- Educate all household members and visitors to secure their products
- Use a locked box specifically for cannabis products
- Be aware that child-resistant packaging can still be opened by determined children
- If you live in a legalization state, discuss the risks with all caregivers
- Keep products in original packaging with clear labeling
Frequently asked questions
Should I call 911 for cannabis edible ingestion by a child?
What should I do first?
What should I NOT do?
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Sources
All content follows our editorial policy and is reviewed against published clinical guidelines.
2,705 evidence-based guides6 authoritative medical sources
Related Emergency Guides
Bottom line
This is a serious emergency. Always call 911 first, then follow the steps above while help is on the way.
You are doing the right thing by learning what to do in an emergency. Being prepared is one of the best things you can do for your child.