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. 2022;31(1):29-38.
doi: 10.1159/000520417. Epub 2021 Nov 1.

A Systematic Review on Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome and Its Management Options

Helen Senderovich  1 , Preet Patel  2 , Briam Jimenez Lopez  3 , Sarah Waicus  4
Affiliations

A Systematic Review on Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome and Its Management Options

Helen Senderovich et al. Med Princ Pract. 2022.

Abstract

Introduction: Several forms of cannabinoids are currently being used to manage nausea and vomiting (N/V). Emerging cases of refractory N/V associated with chronic cannabis use among adults and older patients have been reported named cannabis hyperemesis syndrome (CHS). CHS is a condition that leads to repeated and severe N/V in long-term users of cannabinoids.

Objective: The aim of this study was to outline current treatments for the management of CHS.

Methods: A systematic review was conducted using PubMed, Ovid MEDLINE, Cochrane Central, EMBASE, and Google Scholar. Databases were used to search for articles on CHS published from January 2009 to June 2021, yielding 225 results of which 17 were deemed relevant and underwent review by 2 separate reviewers.

Results: The duration of cannabis administration ranged between 6 months to 11 years may precipitate symptoms of CHS. The Rome IV diagnostic criteria of CHS require cannabinoid use and persistence of N/V symptoms for at least the past 6 months. Cannabis cessation is noted to be the most successful management, but other treatments also demonstrated symptom relief; these include hot water hydrotherapy, topical capsaicin cream, haloperidol, droperidol, benzodiazepines, propranolol, and aprepitant administration.

Conclusion: More research on CHS is needed to enhance knowledge translation, education, and create awareness in the medical community on the side effects of cannabinoids and to propose the best treatment options.

Keywords: Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome; Cannabinoids; Nausea; Vomiting.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare.

Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
Mechanisms of CHS. CHS, cannabis hyperemesis syndrome; CB1, cannabinoid receptors 1; CTZ, chemoreceptor trigger zone; THC, tetrahydrocannabinol.
Fig. 2
Fig. 2
PRISMA flow diagram search history. RCT, randomized control trial; CHS, cannabis hyperemesis syndrome.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

Comment in

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