Skip to main content
Article
Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome: An unrecognized cause of nausea and vomiting
JAAPA (2019)
  • Tiffany Smith
  • Anne Walsh
  • Christopher Forest, California State University, Monterey Bay
Abstract
Cannabis has long been used for medical and recreational purposes because of its antiemetic, analgesic, and mood effects. Ironically, chronic use of cannabis can result in paradoxical effects, including a condition known as cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome. Patients with this syndrome often are seen in the ED with cyclic vomiting, nausea, and epigastric pain. Although the definitive treatment of cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome is discontinuing the causative agent, medical management that includes rehydration is important to prevent complications. Common antiemetic medications are ineffective, but some studies have shown haloperidol and lorazepam to be effective in treating acute symptoms.
Keywords
  • Cannabinoid hyperemesis,
  • Cannabis
Publication Date
April, 2019
DOI
10.1097/01.JAA.0000554231.86747.0a
Citation Information
Tiffany Smith, Anne Walsh and Christopher Forest. "Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome: An unrecognized cause of nausea and vomiting" JAAPA Vol. 32 Iss. 4 (2019) p. 1 - 5
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/christopher-forest/33/