The findings suggest that Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS) is a "costly and largely hidden public health problem," according to lead author Andrew Meltzer, Professor of Emergency Medicine at the GW School of Medicine & Health Sciences.
High Burden of Disease and Healthcare Use
The researchers surveyed 1,052 individuals reporting CHS to assess the frequency and impact of the condition. The results highlight a high reliance on acute medical care:
- ED Visits: 85% of respondents reported at least one emergency department (ED) visit due to hyperemesis symptoms.
- Hospitalizations: 44% reported at least one associated hospitalization.
The severe symptoms, including pain and repeated vomiting, often result in costly and recurrent trips to the hospital.
Key Risk Factors for CHS Severity
The study identified strong associations between early and frequent cannabis use and the likelihood of severe symptoms leading to ED visits:
- Daily Use: Daily cannabis use before the onset of CHS was nearly universal. Over 40% of respondents reported using cannabis more than five times a day.
- Duration: Prolonged use was common, with 44% reporting regular use for more than five years before the syndrome began.
- Early Initiation: An early age of cannabis initiation was associated with higher odds of needing emergency department care. This suggests that starting daily use of cannabis as an adolescent may increase the risk of this painful and costly condition.
Treatment and Clinical Awareness
While emergency room doctors can stabilize patients and alleviate acute symptoms, the researchers stress that the only known way to stop the episodes is to cease cannabis use.
Why Cannabis Causes CHS: It remains unclear why cannabis, which is medically known to ease nausea (especially in chemotherapy patients), causes severe nausea and vomiting in a subset of people after prolonged exposure. Meltzer notes that more research is needed to understand the underlying mechanism and why only some chronic users develop the syndrome.
Call to Clinicians: Meltzer emphasizes that it is crucial for healthcare providers to:
- Advise patients with frequent cannabis use or hyperemesis about the risks and disease burden of CHS.
- Explain the connection between their cannabis use and the syndrome, as many patients are unaware.
- Offer resources to help patients quit cannabis use.
The study, "Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome is Associated with High Disease Burden: An Internet-based Survey," was published in the Annals of Emergency Medicine on February 20, 2025.
Disclaimer: This content is published only for health awareness and informational purposes. It's not a substitute for your professional medical advice. You must consult a doctor/healthcare professional regarding your specific health concerns.
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