Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome: Marijuana is both antiemetic and proemetic

Abstract

Although marijuana is sometimes used to treat chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, when used long-term it can have a paradoxical hyperemetic effect known as cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome. Knowledge of this phenomenon may reduce the ordering of unnecessary and expensive investigations, as well as inappropriate medical and surgical treatment in patients presenting with recurrent vomiting of unknown cause. This article reviews the pathophysiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis, and management of this emerging condition.