Trending
The Wisconsin Poison Center uses both statewide and national data to determine the most popular poison-related topics. Here you can find information and resources related to topics that are both gaining popularity and have the potential for harm. Trending topics typically do not relate to one specific product and can instead take many different forms, often gaining popularity through social media and shifting cultural norms.
Trending Topics
Cannabis/THC
What is it: THC is the part of the cannabis plant that causes a high. In recent years, calls about child cannabis poisonings at the Wisconsin Poison Center have increased. Most of these poisonings happen by accident, with edibles being the most common type of exposure.
Danger: Cannabis edibles (like cookies or gummies) look like regular treats and can make kids sick.
Signs include:
- Vomiting
- Drowsiness
- Trouble walking or breathing
If a child eats cannabis edibles, call the Wisconsin Poison Center right away for recommendations on what to do next: 1-800-222-1222.
Energy Drinks/Caffeine
What are they: Energy drinks contain high levels of caffeine and sugar.
Danger: Drinking too much caffeine can cause stomach pain, shaking or nervousness, mood swings, heart issues, or seizures. Teens should have no more than 100mg of caffeine per day.
If you are concerned about a reaction you are having to an energy drink or if you have questions about whether you should drink one, call Wisconsin Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222.
GLP-1 Medications
What is it: GLP-1s (like Ozempic®, Rybelsus®, Wegovy®) are used to treat diabetes and help with weight loss in certain people.
Danger: Poison Centers are seeing more calls about overdose or fake/counterfeit versions of these drugs.
Medication mistakes could include taking too much of the medication or taking doses too closely together. For questions about GLP-1 medications or overdoses, call the Wisconsin Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222.
Lead Poisoning
What is it: Lead poisoning is most often caused by old paint or dust in homes built before 1978.
Danger: Lead poisoning can affect brain development, learning, and behavior, especially in infants and children.
It’s important to get your child tested for lead poisoning at least twice before the age of 2. This can be done through a finger poke blood lead test at your child’s doctor’s office.
Vaping
What is it: While tobacco and nicotine products have been a long-standing public health issue, e-cigarettes (also referred to as vapes) have continued to gain popularity throughout the last decade. Vapes and e-cigarettes are common in homes and may look like toys or food.
Danger: Nicotine is very addictive and can be dangerous if swallowed, inhaled, or spilled on the skin. If exposed, wash the skin and call the Wisconsin Poison Center right away: 1-800-222-1222.
Please visit Children’s WI for more information on vaping awareness and prevention.