Acute cannabis intoxication among the paediatric population

Area of Science:

• Toxicology
• Pediatrics
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Cannabis use is increasing, leading to a rise in pediatric intoxication cases.
• Children's developing systems make them uniquely vulnerable to cannabinoid effects.
• Understanding these effects is crucial for clinical practice and public health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the toxicological, clinical, and medico-legal aspects of pediatric cannabis intoxication.
• To inform research, policy, and clinical practice regarding child cannabis exposure.
• To highlight the specific vulnerabilities of children to Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).

Main Methods:

• Narrative review of existing literature on pediatric cannabis intoxication.
• Synthesis of toxicological data, clinical presentations, and detection methods.
• Analysis of pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic differences in children versus adults.

Main Results:

• Children exhibit altered cannabinoid pharmacokinetics due to immature systems, leading to delayed and prolonged effects.
• Neurodevelopmental differences, particularly in CB1 receptor expression, increase children's sensitivity to THC.
• Urine immunoassay and plasma THC concentration are key detection methods, each with limitations.

Conclusions:

• Pediatric cannabis intoxication is a growing concern requiring targeted interventions.
• Child-resistant packaging, public education, and prenatal screening are vital preventive measures.
• Clinicians must consider THC exposure in the differential diagnosis of pediatric symptoms.