Accidental cannabis poisoning in the elderly

Abstract

There are two main varieties of Cannabis sativa plant, namely, hemp which is cultivated for fiber and seeds and contains low amounts of psychoactive cannabinoids and the other which is cultivated for the drug cannabis or marijuana. Increasing popularity of hemp food products and alleged beneficial effects of cannabinoids in the drug variety of cannabis might lead to confusion in the lay population and unintentional ingestion of marijuana, as described in this case report. During a workshop on the use of hemp for medicinal purposes, there was a degustation of various hemp food products including also cookies that were brought by one of the attendees. Approximately 1 h after ingestion of cookies, people experienced nausea and vomiting, dizziness, sleepiness and difficulty walking. Twelve people were referred to emergency department, where two were admitted to intensive care because of central nervous system depression. They were all managed with supportive measures and were discharged home without health-related consequences.

Cannabis-Induced Acute Encephalopathy in a 94-Year-Old Woman Due to Family Administration of Cannabidiol (CBD) Products: Case Report

“…THC’s adverse effects - drowsiness, dizziness, fatigue, agitation, hallucinations, and even diarrhea [ 1 , 2 , 14 ] - can have detrimental effects on frail elderly individuals [ 15 ], increasing already elevated risks of falls [ 14 ] and dehydration, and have the potential to be mistakenly managed as signs of acute infection or dementia rather than intoxication. Cannabis compounds are sold as an additive in common consumable products such as cookies, candies, or healthy snacks, facilitating unintentional ingestion or ingestion of larger amounts than intended [ 6 , 7 ].…”

Associations of Local Cannabis Control Policies With Harmful Cannabis Exposures Reported to the California Poison Control System

“…Adults who intentionally consume a recommended dose of a cannabis product may experience adverse effects such as vomiting or psychotic symptoms. 9 , 14 Consumers may also intentionally overdose, defined by poison centers as purposeful exposure to nonstandard doses of tetrahydrocannabinol-containing products with the intent to gain a high, euphoria, or some other psychotropic effect. 15 Unintentional overdoses may arise from unfamiliarity with new product types (e.g., concentrates), confusion about dosing, or lack of guidance on safe consumption.…”

“…16 Acute cannabis overdoses may manifest as vomiting, ataxia, disorientation, psychotic symptoms, or psychological distress. 9,14,17,18 Cannabis can be mistaken for other products and consumed unintentionally, particularly by children. [19][20][21][22][23][24][25][26][27] Finally, like most products, cannabis can be spoiled or contaminated with other drugs or chemicals.…”