Cannabis hyperemesis syndrome: A case report review of treatment

Abstract

IntroductionCannabis is the most common illegal substance used in the world. The psychoactive nature of cannabis is primarily due to delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Some research suggests that prolonged cannabinoid use increases its half-life and fat solubility in the body, slowing gastric emptying, leading towards feelings of nausea and vomiting. We describe a case where a 32 year old male has excessive nausea and vomiting after prolonged use of daily cannabis.Case ReportA 32 year old Hispanic male with no significant past medical history presented to the emergency department with five days history of nausea and vomiting associated with abdominal pain. The vomitus is associated with diffuse abdominal pain and is alleviated by taking hot showers. Vital signs were normal and physical exam showed some abdominal tenderness. CBC and CMP were normal, and urine toxin screen revealed positivity for THC. The patient was admitted with possible diagnoses of cannabis induced hyperemesis. He was placed on Lorazepam and he took multiple hot showers, which improved his nausea. The next day he was discharged home in stable condition.ConclusionOur patient reported the vomiting episodes were associated with the regular usage of cannabis over 19 years. One theory on the effectiveness of hot showers states that it may correct the disequilibrium of the thermoregulatory system in the hypothalamus. Another theory suggests that the concept of peripheral vasodilation and redistribution of blood flow from the splanchnic circulation to peripheral musculature helps decrease vomiting. This research gap shows that further studying of cannabis and its effects are still needed.

Role of chronic cannabis use: Cyclic vomiting syndrome vs cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome

“…Our review of the literature identified a total of 25 case series (n = 271) and 105 individual case reports of patients identified with CHS (Table ) . Most of the reported case series and case studies predated the publication of Rome IV criteria for CHS.…”

Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome: What Do We Know?

“…From 29 case reports and case series identified on CHS presentation as of 2024, representing 36 unique individuals, the ages of people represented in cases ranged from a low of 15 years old to a high of 47 years old [6‒34]. Most reports (21 | 29) described frequency of cannabis use as daily or multiple times per day in cases.…”

Running Out of Options: Rhabdomyolysis Associated with Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome

“…Though only first described in 2004, cannabis hyperemesis syndrome (CHS) and affected patients' characteristic compulsive hot showering or bathing behavior has been well documented. [3][4][5][6] The physiologic cause of CHS remains poorly understood, and the mechanism of relief of symptoms that patients receive from hot water bathing and showering is even less well understood. 7…”