Patient education: Cannabis hyperemesis syndrome (The Basics)

What is cannabis hyperemesis syndrome? — Cannabis hyperemesis syndrome is a condition that causes frequent vomiting, or throwing up. It can happen in people who have been using cannabis (marijuana) regularly for at least a year. It is sometimes called "cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome."

Cannabis hyperemesis syndrome is uncommon. But it might be happening more as cannabis products become legal in more places. It is more likely to affect teenage and young adult males.

What are the symptoms of cannabis hyperemesis syndrome? — The main symptom is repeated, severe episodes of vomiting. A person might vomit up to 6 to 8 times per hour during an episode. These episodes can last for up to a few days. Then the cycle repeats every few weeks or months.

In addition to vomiting, symptoms can include:

●Nausea

●Belly pain

●Feeling very tired

●Pale skin

●Diarrhea

Lots of vomiting can lead to dehydration. This is when the body loses too much water.

Often, people with cannabis hyperemesis syndrome take a lot of very hot showers or baths. This sometimes helps them feel better temporarily.

Should I see a doctor or nurse? — Yes. If you have repeated episodes of vomiting or belly pain, call your doctor or nurse. They will ask about your symptoms and do an exam. They will also ask you questions about your cannabis use, including how long you have been using it, what products you use, and how often you use it. It's important to be honest in your answers, since this information will help your doctor or nurse figure out what is causing your symptoms.

You should also call your doctor or nurse if you have any signs of dehydration, such as:

●Feeling very tired

●Being very thirsty or having a dry mouth or tongue

●Muscle cramps

●Dizziness

●Confusion

●Urine that is dark yellow, or not needing to urinate for more than 5 hours

How is cannabis hyperemesis syndrome treated? — The main treatment is to stop using cannabis products. Vomiting usually gets better within a day or 2 of stopping. If you continue to have vomiting episodes even after stopping cannabis use, tell your doctor or nurse. They can try to figure out what else might be causing your symptoms.

If you are dehydrated, you might need to get extra fluids through an IV. (An IV is a thin tube that goes into a vein.)

Can cannabis hyperemesis syndrome be prevented? — The only way to prevent this condition for sure is to avoid using cannabis products at all. Some people can use cannabis once in a while without having problems. But if you have already had cannabis hyperemesis syndrome, using it at all is likely to cause your symptoms to come back.

If you are trying to stop using cannabis and having a hard time, tell your doctor or nurse. They can help you get support. This might involve counseling or support groups.

More on this topic

Patient education: Nausea and vomiting in adults (The Basics)
Patient education: Marijuana use and addiction (The Basics)