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Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome

Tae K Kim, MD and Gemma Kim, MD Reviewed 04/2024
 


BASICS

DESCRIPTION

  • Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS) is defined by cyclic nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain typically relieved by hot showers or baths in the setting of chronic cannabis use.

  • Eas...

DIAGNOSIS

HISTORY

  • CHS occurs in three phases: prodromal, hyperemetic, and recovery phase.

    • Prodromal phase: early morning nausea and abdominal discomfort with normal eating patterns—can last for months o...

TREATMENT

Treatment should focus on relieving symptoms and advising on marijuana cessation. 

GENERAL MEASURES

  • Acute treatment includes fluid replacement, antiemetics, benzodiazepines, electrolyte replac...

ONGOING CARE

FOLLOW-UP RECOMMENDATIONS

Referral for outpatient or inpatient treatment for cessation of cannabis such as cognitive behavioral therapy and rehabilitation programs 

Patient Monitoring

  • Monito...

REFERENCES

1
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Results from the 2020 National Survey on Drug Use and Health: detailed tables. Rockville, MD: Center for Behavioral Health Statis...

SEE ALSO

Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome; Marijuana (Cannabis) Use Disorder; Substance Use Disorders, Pediatric 

CLINICAL PEARLS

  • CHS is a syndrome characterized by bouts of nausea, emesis, and abdominal pain.

  • Sufferers often take multiple hot baths or showers daily to relieve symptoms.

  • Treatment centers around eli...

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