Trends in intentional abuse and misuse ingestions in school-aged children and adolescents reported to US poison centers from 2000-2020.

With over 330,000 poison center cases reported during the 20-year study period, intentional substance misuse and abuse exposures substantially impact the pediatric population. The substances most commonly misused/abused are more widely available substances such as over-the-counter medications, household products and pharmaceuticals commonly prescribed to youth. Differences in age and sex were evident, with males and adolescents more likely to abuse and misuse substances. Our study describes an upward trend in marijuana misuse/abuse exposures among youth, especially those involving edible products. These findings highlight an ongoing concern about the impact of rapidly evolving cannabis legalization on this vulnerable population.