Marijuana overdoses can result in cognitive and motor impairment, extreme sedation, agitation, anxiety, cardiac stress, and vomiting. High quantities of THC have been reported to cause transient psychotic symptoms such as hallucinations, delusions, and anxiety.3
Dr. Francine Pearce
As pediatricians, it is essential to educate teens and their families on the harmful effects of marijuana and dispel the myth that is benign. They need to be informed of the negative impact of marijuana, which leads to impairment of memory and executive function, on the developing brain. Parents also need to be aware of the current trends of use and formulations, so they can be aware of potential exposures.5
Dr. Pearce is a pediatrician in Frankfort, Ill. She said she had no relevant financial disclosures. Email her at pdnews@MDedge.com.
References
1. “American Academy of Pediatrics Reaffirms Opposition to Legalizing Marijuana for Recreational or Medical Use,” AAP press release on Jan. 26, 2015.
2. N Engl J Med. 2015;372:989-91.
3. Methods Rep RTI Press. 2016 Nov. doi: 10.3768/rtipress.2016.op.0035.1611.