Over the past 15 years, the number of U.S. children suffering seizures after taking prescription painkillers, synthetic marijuana, and other harmful substances has nearly doubled, according to new research from the University of Virginia.
The study highlights a sharp increase in drug-induced seizures, with many cases involving common household medications and illegal drugs.
From 2009 to 2023, cases of drug-induced seizures in individuals under the age of 20 jumped from 1,418 to 2,749—a startling 94% increase.
The analysis, based on national poison control data, highlights that many of these cases involved prescription painkillers such as tramadol, antidepressants like bupropion (Wellbutrin), over-the-counter antihistamines such as diphenhydramine (commonly known as Benadryl), and synthetic cannabinoids, including K2 and spice.
The annual rise in such incidents has averaged 5%, with the most significant increases observed in children aged 6 to 19, where cases have doubled over the past 15 years. For children younger than 6, the rise is similarly concerning, with a 45% increase reported.
Dr. Conner McDonald, from the University of Virginia School of Medicine, described the increase in drug-induced seizures as “extremely worrying.”
He highlighted the severity of seizures as one of the most dangerous symptoms a child can experience after exposure to toxic substances.
“Seizures can lead to long-term damage or even death, depending on factors like where the seizure occurs, how long it lasts, and the child’s pre-existing health conditions,” McDonald explained.
Researchers attribute this spike in cases to the growing availability of both legal and illegal drugs, which are now more easily accessible online and shipped directly to homes. The ease of access has made it more common for children to encounter these substances within reach in their own households.
To combat this disturbing trend, McDonald and his team are advocating for stronger preventive measures, including child-resistant packaging for medications.
They propose using blister packs, which require users to push tablets through foil, making it more difficult for children to access the drugs. They also call on parents to securely store medications out of children’s reach.
The research was presented at the European Emergency Medicine Congress in Copenhagen, where experts reiterated the urgent need for action to address the rising number of drug-related poisonings and seizures among children.
As concerns about children’s safety grow, the public is encouraged to pay close attention to the medications and substances stored in their homes and to adopt proper safety measures to protect their children from accidental ingestion of dangerous drugs.