THC levels too high: Cannabis products recalled

Recalled cannabis products are shown. (Handout)

A pair of cannabis products sold in several provinces have been recalled due to inaccurate levels of THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol), the main psychoactive compound in cannabis, listed on the packaging.

According to a Health Canada recall alert, packages of Wintermint Chillows cannabis extract and Cinnamon Chillows cannabis extract contain higher THC levels than what is stated on the pouches’ label. The products are used by placing them between the gum and cheek.

The recalled products were sold in Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba and Ontario. The alert warns that pouches in which the products were sold in contain over 10 mg of THC, and that there is significant unit-to-unit variability of THC levels between pouches.

“The elevated and inconsistent levels of THC in each pouch may make it difficult to make informed decisions regarding your cannabis use,” the statement reads. “This may lead to over-intoxication and temporary adverse health consequences associated with THC overdose.”

Some symptoms could include:

• confusion
• disorganized thinking
• physical and mental impairment
• anxiety
• fear or panic
• decreased blood pressure
• elevated heart rate

“In remote cases, depending on the individual and the dose of THC consumed, THC overdose can also result in psychotic episodes characterized by paranoia, delusion or hallucinations. These effects could in some cases lead to an emergency department visit or hospitalization,” the recall says.

Anyone in possession of these recalled products is asked to stop using them, return them to the store where they were bought or dispose of them safely and away from where children or youth might access them.

Since 2018, when cannabis was legalized in Canada, several cannabis products have been recalled due to incorrect THC values listed on the label.