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Cannabinoid Poisoning by Hemp Seed Oil in a Child
Matteo Chinello1, Salvatore Scommegna, Alison Shardlow
1From the *University of Trieste, Institute for Maternal and Child Health IRCCS 'Burlo Garofolo', Trieste; †Department of Pediatrics and Pediatric Hematology, S. Camillo-Forlanini Hospital; ‡Legal Medicine Department, Public Health Institute, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart; and §Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, Genetics Unit, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy.
Pediatric Emergency Care
|June 15, 2016
Summary
A preschool child experienced mild cannabinoid poisoning from prescribed hemp seed oil. Neurological symptoms resolved with hydration, highlighting potential risks of hemp products in children.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Toxicology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Hemp seed oil is increasingly used for perceived health benefits.
- Pediatricians may prescribe hemp seed oil for immune support.
- Cannabinoid poisoning in children is a growing concern.
Observation:
- A preschool child developed neurological symptoms after 3 weeks of prescribed hemp seed oil ingestion.
- Symptoms resolved with intravenous hydration.
- A mild withdrawal syndrome was suspected post-discharge.
Findings:
- The child's urine tested positive for the main metabolite of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ-THC).
- The ingested hemp seed oil contained very low concentrations of Δ-THC.
- This is the first reported case of cannabinoid poisoning in a preschooler due to medically prescribed hemp seed oil.
Implications:
- This case highlights the potential for unintended cannabinoid toxicity from hemp seed oil, even when prescribed.
- Pediatricians should exercise caution when prescribing hemp-based products to children.
- Further research is needed to understand the safety and efficacy of hemp seed oil in pediatric populations.