CHARLOTTE, N.C. — North Carolina health officials are sounding the alarm about a significant increase in the number of cases of kids being exposed to cannabis. 

Data released Monday by North Carolina Poison Control shows that the agency received more than 1,100 cannabis-related calls in 2024, with 42% of them involving a child under 13. That’s up dramatically from 2020 when North Carolina Poison Control managed 518 cannabis exposure calls, 27% of which involved a child under 13. 

“We are concerned about the increase in cannabis cases among children over time that we’re seeing,” Dr. Michael Beuhler said. “Parents should know that a child can become sick after eating only one gummy.”

Officials say products like edibles can be especially dangerous to kids who can’t distinguish them from regular candy. Because kids have lower body weight than adults, they’re more likely to experience cannabis poisoning, which can cause several symptoms, including difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include slurred speech, weakness, severe fatigue, nausea and vomiting.

“Cannabis-containing products should be stored securely away from children, just like medications,” Alexa Steverson, manager of communications and content development for North Carolina Poison Control, said. “Children can be enticed by appealing packaging and can easily mistake edible products for familiar foods and snacks.”

Officials also warned consumers that cannabis products may not always accurately list the amount of THC they contain, potentially increasing the risk of an overdose. Anyone who suspects a child may have consumed cannabis products should immediately contact NC Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222. The service is available 24 hours a day via phone and online.

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