Health Canada says it has become aware of edible cannabis products available for sale that contain a quantity of THC that exceeds the allowable limit of 10 mg of THC per package. Consumers of these items may accidentally consume higher than expected levels of THC, which can cause adverse reactions (side effects).
These product formats similar to gummies and other confectionary products such as hard candy, have been incorrectly marketed and sold as cannabis extracts. Cannabis extracts may contain up to 1,000 mg of THC per package, with up to 10 mg of THC per unit.
Edible cannabis products are intended to be consumed in the same manner as food. They often have a pleasant taste, odour and texture, and look like conventional food or drinks. It takes longer to feel the effects of cannabis when it is ingested orally (by mouth), and the effects last longer than when cannabis is smoked or inhaled. As a result, there is an increased risk that edible cannabis products may be consumed accidentally (particularly by children) or overconsumed.
Consumers are advised to always read and understand the label of cannabis products which identifies the amount of THC per unit and per package, prior to consuming cannabis products to ensure you are consuming them correctly.
Signs that an individual has consumed high quantities of THC can include:
- chest pain
- rapid heartbeat
- nausea
- vomiting
- psychotic episode
- slowed and ineffective breathing (respiratory depression)
- severe anxiety
- panic attack
- agitation
- confusion
- slurred speech
- unsteadiness on feet
- drowsiness/lethargy
- muscle weakness
- loss of consciousness
