Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome in Children: A Review of Epidemiology, Pathology, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Abstract

Cannabis remains one of the most frequently misused substances among adolescents. As recreational cannabis has proliferated across the United States, cannabis-related emergency department visits have increased. Cannabis hyperemesis syndrome, a variant of cyclic vomiting syndrome, has emerged as a recognized but poorly understood complication of chronic cannabis use among a subset of individuals. Cannabis hyperemesis syndrome is characterized by repeated cycles of abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting refractory to standard antiemetics, with users reporting the compulsive use of hot showers to mitigate symptoms. Treatment modalities include intravenous fluid and electrolyte repletion, topical application of capsaicin, and the use of antidopaminergics (eg, droperidol, haloperidol).

Keywords: cannabis hyperemesis syndrome; cyclic vomiting syndrome; marijuana.