Cannabis edibles: As more states legalize cannabis, cases in which children accidentally eat food or drinks that contain cannabis are on the rise. Cannabis edibles can be especially tricky because they don’t just look like food — they often are food products with cannabis as an added ingredient.
Chewable antacids: Many antacids come in fruit or mint flavors and can look and taste like Sweet Tarts or Mentos.
Some antacid chews can also look and taste like a piece of bubble gum or taffy.
Tablets with a smooth outer coating: Many medications, such as conjugated estrogens (Premarin), iron supplements, and over-the-counter (OTC) ibuprofen (Advil), come as tablets with a smooth outer coating. It’s there to make tablets easier to swallow, among other effects. But it can also make them look very similar to various candies, such as M&M’s, Skittles, and Tic Tacs.
Chewable Vitamins: These often come in bright colors and fun shapes, making them look similar to gummy candies.
Antacid Tablets: Some antacids are colorful and round, resembling small hard candies.
Cough Drops: With their shiny, often brightly colored exteriors, cough drops can easily be mistaken for hard candy.
Birth Control Pills: Packaged in circular or rectangular formations with colorful coatings, they can appear candy-like.
Pediatric Medications: Liquid medicines or chewables designed for children are sometimes flavored and brightly colored, much like liquid candy or gummy treats.
It’s important to note that even over-the-counter medications, such as vitamins or antacids, can be dangerous if taken in large amounts. Parents and caregivers should take steps to store medications away from children and educate them on when it’s safe to take medication and from whom.
Poison Control
Call 1-800-222-1222
Call 1-800-222-1222
