By: Dr. Eric Levene, Chester Pediatrics (Whiteplains, NY)
Happy New Year, and welcome to 2023! With the start of any new year comes new laws. One new law on our radar this year is the legalization of marijuana in the tri-state area. New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut all have legalized marijuana recently and have started to license “weed” shops.
Why does this concern pediatricians? We have always been concerned about drug and alcohol use in teens, but my thoughts now are for parents with younger kids and the accidental overdose in children.
Today’s edibles are packaged to look like the candies we give our kids. They can easily be confused for treats like gummy bears, lollipops, and baked goods. Many are even packaged to look like ordinary candies and goods with familiar brand names.
While I’m not here to judge anybody’s use of these products, I am here to educate and advise. Please keep these products out of the reach of your children. We are now seeing too many reports of accidental overdoses in kids. If you are buying these products, treat them like you would alcohol, medications, or guns in your home. Lock them away, do not keep them anywhere near your kitchen or places you and your children normally eat.
If your child does accidentally eat one of these products, call poison control immediately. The number 1-800-222-1222 should be saved into your phones. This is your first call in any overdose.
Your trusted pediatrician is always available to you for information and without judgment.
Allied Physicians Group is a partnership of more than 150 dedicated, caring physicians and 350 highly trained support staff. Allied serves over 180,000 patients with offices throughout Greater New York City, Long Island, the Hudson Valley, and beyond. Founded in 2006, Allied Physicians Group is a recognized leader in increasing healthcare efficiencies and patient satisfaction, emphasizing support, innovation, and collaboration. If you are looking for a Pediatrician near you click here or for more information please visit https://alliedphysiciansgroup.com/.
