Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome

It is common knowledge that Cannabis has been used for years to increase the appetite in those that are sick. Many healthy people that use the drug recreationally have also reported an increased appetite. Either way, this is commonly referred to as the ‘munchies. However, there is a small percentage of people, who, after years of chronic cannabis use, will slowly begin to experience nausea and vomiting because of their chronic use. This condition is called Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS).

CHS was previously thought to be a rare syndrome. However, as many states have legalized cannabis over the past few years, CHS is becoming more prevalent. In fact, six percent of all patients that are brought to the emergency room due to nausea and vomiting have CHS. Unfortunately, CHS is often not considered by many clinicians when their patient first reports symptoms. According to statistics, patients that report symptoms of CHS see their clinician as many as five times and have been to the emergency room multiple times prior to finally being diagnosed with Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome.

What causes CHS? Unfortunately, it is still hard to say. Since there are many different active chemicals in cannabis and these chemicals are active in various parts in the brain, a definite cause is unknown. One theory is that THC, which accumulates in the brain of chronic users, directly affects the part of the brain that is responsible for our gastric abilities. This would increase our potential to become nauseous and possibly vomit. Although, the interesting is that many chronic users will never experience any of these symptoms or CHS.

Long term Cannabis use of at least once per week puts users at risk of developing CHS. Use of Cannabis daily will increase that risk. Typically, the condition develops in three phases. In the first phase, the user will experience nausea, stomach discomfort, light vomiting or gagging, and fear of vomiting. Unfortunately, many users will use more Cannabis during this time to help with their nausea. Symptoms often occur in the morning. This phase can last for months or years. The second phase lasts about twenty-four to forty-eight hours. During this phase, the user will experience extreme vomiting and nausea. This is why many users wind up in the emergency room or hospital. The final phase is the recovery phase. This is when symptoms have subsided. However, if the user decides to begin using it again, the cycle will continue.

If you would like to speak to a professional counselor or psychologist about this and are in the Chicago area, please feel free to contact Olive Branch Counseling Associates, Inc. at 708-633-8000. We are located at 6819 West 167^th Street in Tinley Park, Illinois 60477.

Hillary R.,

Masters Level Intern, 2023

Sources –

Ashley DePuy, P. C. 2017 T. U. S. of P. P. (2016, December 16). Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome. U.S. Pharmacist – The Leading Journal in Pharmacy. https://www.uspharmacist.com/article/cannabinoid-hyperemesis-syndrome/