Thursday, March 30, 2023

 

Are THC edibles snacks?

 

Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) edibles come in many different forms. They can come in the form of cookies, gummies, brownies, chocolates, and many others.  The packaging for these edibles can sometimes resemble brand name snacks and candies we are used to eating. This packaging and product look-a-like can be confusing even to adults. You really have to take a close look at the packaging to even know that it contains THC. 

 




So, are THC edibles snacks?  Can we eat the whole package of cookies or gummies, or the entire chocolate bar?  The answer is No, they are not intended to be snacks. For example, in a package of 20 THC edible gummy bears, each bear is supposed to be “one dose” of THC as per the product label. In a THC edible chocolate bar, the whole bar may be 20 doses of THC, according to the product label.  Therefore, the THC edible chocolate bar must be broken up into 20 pieces, with each piece eaten at a different sitting, according to the label.  Another thing to keep in mind is that THC edibles are not for children! THC consumption by children is illegal in the U.S..  Adults need to treat THC edibles like they treat alcohol or medications.  They should be keep locked up and out of sight from children.  Since these edibles look like normal candies and food items, they can easily be confused by a child and even an adult.   


 

Other things to keep in mind:

THC laws are very different state by state and THC containing products are not legal in all states, like Texas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas, just to name a few.  THC edibles are also not regulated by the FDA

Each THC containing product is supposed to indicate what “a dose” of THC is on the product label.  You must read the product label so that you know the amount of THC you are consuming before you dive into snaking on the whole thing.  That is, assuming the label is accurate…

 

 

 

https://disa.com/maps/marijuana-legality-by-state

 

Map of cannabis laws in the US

Monday, February 27, 2023

Stay Informed of Alcohol Laws in Texas and Drink Responsibly During the Spring Holiday

March marks the beginning of spring and the start of school break activities. Families and college students are moving across the nation and the world to reach their Spring Break destinations. A symbol of Spring Break is the consumption of alcohol. It is important to develop safe drinking habits and be informed of the drinking laws in your state.

The state of Texas has a Zero Tolerance Law. This law states that it is a criminal offense for a minor to have any detectable amount of alcohol in their system and operating a motor vehicle. This law extends to purchasing or the attempt to purchase alcohol while underage.

According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAA) 85.6 percent of individuals 18 or older have drank alcohol. Those who plan to legally engage in the consumption of alcohol should learn safe drinking habits. Safe drinking habits include eating a full meal before you begin drinking. If you engage in heavy drinking (more than 3 drinks for women, and more than 4 drinks for men) make sure you have chosen a designated driver. Make sure to hydrate(drink water) before drinking, and continue to hydrate between alcoholic beverages. Finally, make sure you are familiar with the MUST HELP acronym for recognizing alcohol poisoning.




If you feel that you or someone you know is experiencing alcohol poisoning, The Texas Poison Center Network is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.



Underage drinkers (under 21) who know someone that is experiencing alcohol poisoning, do not hesitate to call 911. Underage drinkers who are reporting an alcohol poisoning of another underage individual are given immunity from criminal charges. This law is referred to as the 911 Lifeline policy. You may read more about the origins of this policy in the December 2013 blog entry.

 

Remember to save the Texas Poison Center Network toll- free number in your phone. You can order magnets, stickers and other materials with the TPCN number here.



Monday, February 13, 2023

Is camphor safe to use?

 

Is camphor safe to use?                              

  

Camphor is a chemical used in a variety of medicines and household products around the world. There are natural forms of camphor derived from different plants and trees and synthetic forms derived from oil of turpentine.  It is commonly used in creams, for its cooling sensation, and to provide relief for pain, cough, itching, cold sores, or sore muscles. It can also be found in products such as essential oils, mothballs, and even some pest control products.

Safe Use

Always follow the directions on the label when using products containing camphor. Camphor containing creams that are not FDA approved, over the counter products should not be applied to the eyes, nose, or mouth, especially in young children. Ask your doctor before using these products on babies or young children.

When applying creams to the skin, do not cover with bandages or excess clothing. If the cream is covered, it can cause the skin to absorb more of the product, which may cause unwanted side effects. If the product causes skin irritation or burning, remove the product and rinse the area well with water.

Child-resistant containers will not prevent all children from opening the product. Store these products up, away, and out of sight. Do not keep these products on tables or countertops, even if they are being used frequently. Always keep products in their original labeled container. 

Health Effects 

If swallowed, camphor can cause:

·        Mouth irritation

·        Stomach pain

·        Nausea and vomiting                                                       

·        Lower blood pressure

·        Difficulty breathing

·        Seizures

·        Death

 

Call your local poison center at 1-800-222-1222 if you experience these or any other symptom after use. Never make a person throw-up! If the person is not breathing, is unconscious, or having seizures, call 911.