Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome and Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome: Their Intersection and Joint Existence

Abstract

Cyclic vomiting syndrome (CVS) and cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS) are 2 disorders characterized by recurrent episodes of nausea and vomiting that are stereotypical in nature with intervening periods of baseline health. While they share overlapping clinical features, their underlying pathophysiology, epidemiology, and management strategies differ. CVS is primarily a disorder of gut-brain interaction with a strong association with migraine and autonomic dysfunction, whereas CHS is directly linked to chronic and heavy use of cannabis. The prodromal, emetic, recovery, and interepisodic baseline health phases define their severity and dictate the prescribed therapeutic approach.

Keywords: Abortive therapy; Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome; Cyclic vomiting phases; Cyclic vomiting syndrome; Prophylactic therapy.