The blunt Fact about Cannabis
Edible cannabis products may be available as early as December 16, 2019 for residents to buy in-store or online. Ottawa Public Health is sharing important information to ensure that you and those around you stay safe.
Residents should be aware that when ingesting cannabis the effects take longer to feel and can last longer than when cannabis is inhaled. The effects of edibles can be delayed from 30 minutes to 2 hours and last up to 12 hours.
The cannabis plant contains chemicals called cannabinoids. The two main cannabinoids are THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabinoidol). THC is the psychoactive component in cannabis. CBD is non-psychoactive.
Edible cannabis products will have up to 10 mg of THC per package. Make sure to read the label to know how much THC is in each serving. Start low and go slow. Start with 2.5 mg of THC or less and wait at least 30 minutes to 2 hours to feel the effects.
Kids can get into anything. Here are a few ways children are protected with the new laws:
- Packaging must be child resistant
- Products cannot be appealing to kids
- Products with even small amounts of THC must have a universal THC symbol
Keep all cannabis products in their original packaging and in a locked place that is out of sight and out of reach from children. If you make your own cannabis edibles, clearly label the container and keep it in a secure location. Severe drowsiness and breathing problems can be signs that a child has accidentally consumed cannabis.
If you think your child may have ingested cannabis, call the Ontario Poison Centre immediately at 1-800-268-9017 or call 9- 1-1 if it is an emergency.
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