Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome: Causes, Treatment, and More

For example, the drug affects the receptors in the esophageal sphincter, the tight band of muscle that opens and closes to let food go from your throat to your stomach. If this flap doesn’t work properly, your stomach acids might flow upward and cause you to have nausea and vomiting. Marijuana has a lot of active chemical compounds called cannabinoids. When you use weed, these compounds bind to cannabinoid receptors found in your brain, digestive tract (gut), and certain cells in your body.

Hyperemetic Phase of CHS –

Right now, the only known effective treatment for CHS is to stop using cannabis. Neither the psychological treatments nor the pharmacological treatments seem to be that effective,” he said. Typical antiemetics such as ondansetron, commonly known as Zofran, have often been found ineffective at suppressing nausea caused by CHS.

Can CBD products cause CHS?

A systematic review by Richards et al. 64 showed that these standard anti-emetics are often ineffective when used alone and demonstrated superior efficacy with intravenous benzodiazepines. Both CVS and CHS are complex gastrointestinal conditions influenced by several entities, including genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. While their genetic underpinnings are still not fully understood, research has suggested potential genetic predispositions for each. The CVS has strong links to mitochondrial dysfunction and neurobiological pathways related to migraine, while CHS is primarily influenced by chronic cannabis use and endocannabinoid system dysfunction. The effects of cannabis and its interactions on the various organ systems were elucidated further with the discovery of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) 1. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome

Most medications used to treat nausea and vomiting do not work with CHS. Prolonged vomiting can cause severe illness requiring intensive care treatment. Dehydration, severe electrolyte abnormalities, pneumonia, and aspiration can all occur with any condition involving prolonged vomiting, including CHS. Compared to CHS, ulcer symptoms are more constant, not weeks apart like CHS. Like gastritis, ulcers can feel worse on an empty stomach and feel better after antacids.

Marijuana-Induced Vomiting Syndrome Rising in Young Men

• The only way to stop CHS and its symptoms is to completely quit using cannabis.
• CHS typically affects individuals younger than 50 years, with a median age of 28 years.
• As studies, like Farrimond’s 2021 microbiota work or Wargent’s 2022 THCV research, advance, cannabis proves it’s more than a recreational herb.
• For instance, new diagnostic criteria for CHS now include a weight loss of 5 kg or more, with symptoms often peaking in the morning while bowel habits remain normal.
• If you have cannabis use disorder and need help quitting, professional treatment is available.

This is the first and most crucial step in the recovery process. Once cannabis use is stopped, the symptoms of CHS will gradually start to subside. The good news is the recovery process from CHS begins when cannabis use ceases, but it’s not an overnight cure. Every person will have their own experience, but the process typically follows a standard timeline. Symptoms become more severe and debilitating in this hyper (excessive) emetic (vomiting) phase. Medical intervention now can prevent more severe complications.

Additionally, we provide resources that assist new users in making informed decisions about their usage. Have you considered how support groups can aid recovery for CHS patients? Research indicates that participation in these groups can significantly enhance emotional support and provide practical coping strategies. Case studies have shown a clear connection between chronic marijuana use and an increased risk of PONV, leading to recommendations for caution in adjusting prophylactic measures for these individuals. As the marijuana landscape evolves, ongoing education about its health implications is critical in preventing CHS and promoting safer consumption practices. At Leafy Mate, we are dedicated to empowering you with the knowledge needed to navigate this complex landscape responsibly.

Additionally, the prolonged use of certain antiemetics, such as ondansetron, may have limited benefit in CHS, further highlighting the need for individualized management plans. Recent developments in cannabinoid research have led to the creation of novel modulators aimed at specifically targeting the CB1 receptors, which are integral to the psychoactive effects of cannabis. When these receptors are activated, they can drug addiction treatment influence mood and behavior, and in some individuals, may contribute to adverse psychological effects such as depression and suicidal ideation. This raises important concerns about the safety profile of future cannabinoid-based medications and therapies.

• One running theory is that cannabis changes how molecules in the digestive tract respond, as cannabinoid receptors are present in the digestive tract as well and are affected by cannabis use.
• Typically, patients can only find relief from intense and persistent nausea by taking hot baths or showers.
• While it is possible that legalization has made patients more willing to seek emergency care, the burden of managing these cases ultimately falls on healthcare providers.
• For instance, consider the recent case of a 46-year-old woman who presented to the emergency department with withdrawal signs after losing her job and being unable to afford medical marijuana.
• Several previous studies have described the characteristics of frequent and prolonged hot shower use common among patients with CHS.

Cannabis can influence appetite and digestion with compounds like THC, CBD, and THCV, offering benefits for weight management, digestive comfort, and overall wellness via the endocannabinoid system. Marijuana use disorder A range of problems that can occur with marijuana. This includes issues such as dependence, withdrawal, and addiction. A group of medications used to reduce the amount of acid your stomach lining produces.

The abdominal pain can be burning, dull, or gnawing, like hunger pain. However, the symptoms of ulcers tend to be worse than those of gastritis. Experts believe only a fraction of habitual cannabis users develop CHS. But because CHS is a somewhat newly discovered condition https://ecosoberhouse.com/article/what-is-the-most-addictive-drug/ that was first diagnosed in 2004, some people may be underdiagnosed or misdiagnosed. Keep in mind none of these treatments will be effective if you continue using cannabis products. The prodromal phase can last for months, or even years in some cases.

• After stopping cannabis use, symptoms generally resolve within days or months.
• Recovering from Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS) can be a challenging journey, but understanding the timeline can provide some comfort.
• As Jeremy Hernandez noted in his study on CHS presentation, understanding these dynamics is crucial for developing effective treatment and support strategies.
• Studies suggest that CHS may involve disruption at the hippocampal–hypothalamic–pituitary level 22.
• When you stop using cannabis completely, you will usually feel better in 10 days.
• But, researchers do know only cannabis users get this condition.

Phase 2: Symptom Relief

Organizations like Leafy Mate are committed to equipping users with the resources and connections to trusted medical professionals. Together, we can navigate the complexities of cannabis use safely and responsibly. By fostering a community of informed consumers, we can significantly reduce the potential for CHS and its repercussions, paving the way for healthier cannabis consumption practices. We invite you to explore our guides and connect with medical marijuana doctors through Leafy Mate for personalized support. Together, we can ensure that your choices are informed and health-conscious.

Understanding Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome: An Overview

Their findings suggest that enhancing the brain’s cannabis-like proteins could be a promising avenue for treatment, potentially alleviating withdrawal symptoms and reducing overall drug use. Both cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS) and cyclic vomiting syndrome (CVS) cause people to feel sick to the stomach and throw up at times, while feeling normal at other times. This is more common in men than women and usually starts around 35 years old. These two conditions are hard to distinguish between and the main difference is CHS happens with using a lot of marijuana.