At Bloomly, we advocate for the numerous benefits of cannabis, but it’s crucial to acknowledge that it isn’t universally beneficial. A growing concern within the community is a condition known as Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS), first identified in 2004. This condition can cause severe discomfort, including persistent nausea and vomiting, for a small percentage of frequent cannabis users. Our aim with this discussion isn’t to create apprehension but to foster awareness and education for those who might be suffering from CHS.

Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS) has gained more attention since its discovery and is undeniably real. We want to educate those who may be experiencing severe adverse reactions to cannabis. CHS is believed to be a side effect of frequent cannabis use. Symptoms include, but are not limited to, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. If a person believes they have CHS, they should cease THC/CBD use immediately.

CHS is divided into 3 stages: the prodromal phase, the hyperemetic phase, and the recovery phase. It’s important to note that not every CHS patient experiences the same onset of symptoms.

During this prodromal phase, the main symptoms tend to be:

• Early morning nausea
• Belly (abdominal) pain
• Burping
• Heartburn, like acid reflux
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Some people also develop a fear of vomiting

Most people maintain normal eating patterns during the prodromal phase. Some people use more cannabis because they hope marijuana’s anti-nausea effects will stop the nausea. This phase may last for months or years. Symptoms during the hyperemetic phase may include:

• Repeated vomiting
• Ongoing nausea
• Belly pain
• Decreased food intake and weight loss
• Dehydration (which can lead to organ failure)
• Acid reflux
• Sweating
• Chills
• Burping
• Diarrhoea
• Constipation

During this phase, vomiting is often overwhelming. Many people take frequent hot showers, as doing so eases their nausea. Some people experience burns on the skin from using scalding hot water. Some people seek medical care during this phase. Once a person stops using cannabis, they may remain in the hyperemetic phase for days, weeks, or longer.

During the recovery phase, symptoms go away. Eating is possible again. This phase can last days or months. In addition, some individuals may experience withdrawal symptoms to cannabis due to excessive or frequent use in the past. It is important during this phase to refrain from the use of all cannabis products as symptoms may return if individuals use cannabis again.

There are a few different treatment options to provide relief from CHS symptoms, but individual results may vary:

• IV (intravenous) fluid replacement for dehydration.
• A small amount of capsaicin cream applied on to the abdomen helps temporarily relieve symptoms for some but not all CHS patients. Capsaicin cream is a cayenne pepper-based cream and creates a burning sensation that may be painful. If the burn becomes uncomfortable, apply milk to relieve the burning sensation.
• Frequent hot showers provide relief to some but not all CHS patients.
• Running. A very small percent of patients find relief by engaging in physical activity like jogging or running. If you are weak and dehydrated, do not attempt to overexert yourself.
• Medicines to help decrease vomiting: anti-psychotics have been successfully used to treat the symptoms of CHS in some patients. These medications can have uncomfortable side effects. Some patients report that they would rather continue to throw up than take these medicines. Medicines commonly used to help relieve symptoms include Haldol, Zofran, Ativan, Valium, Morphine, Gravol, Benadryl, and Promethazine. Symptoms often ease within a few days of quitting cannabis, but some may experience symptoms for up to 90 days.

If you or someone you know is struggling with CHS, there are resources available to help:

Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome Recovery: This Facebook support group of over 15,000 patients is a safe space to connect with others living with CHS. 

Cannabinoid Hyperemesis: Founded by Alice Moon, a patient and awareness advocate of CHS, this website includes information, resources, and research papers on CHS.

Research on CHS is still limited, but clinical trials and studies have begun to shed light on this condition. One study found that the prevalence of CHS among regular cannabis users was approximately 2.75%. Additionally, the study found that CHS was more common among daily users than occasional users.

Another clinical trial, conducted by the University of Colorado School of Medicine, investigated the impact of hot water exposure on CHS symptoms. The study found that hot showers or baths might help alleviate symptoms by activating the TRPV1 receptor, a temperature-sensitive receptor in the body. This activation may help counteract the effects of cannabis on the gastrointestinal system.

Despite these findings, the exact cause of CHS remains unknown, and more research is needed to understand this condition better. Some potential theories include cannabinoid build-up or the body’s inability to process cannabinoids properly, but experts continue to investigate the matter.

If you suspect that you or someone you know may be experiencing CHS, it is crucial to consult with a medical professional and stop the use of cannabis immediately. By raising awareness and understanding of CHS, we can promote responsible and safe cannabis consumption for everyone.

Read the studies here

Habboushe, J., & Sedor, J. (2018). The Prevalence of Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome among Regular Marijuana Smokers in an Urban Public Hospital. Basic & Clinical Pharmacology & Toxicology, 122(6), 660-662. https://doi.org/10.1111/bcpt.12962

Richards, J. R., & Lapoint, J. M. (2021). Hot water immersion for the treatment of cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome: A pilot study. Clinical Toxicology, 59(4), 295-300. https://doi.org/10.1080/15563650.2020.1817941

Cannabinoid Hyperemesis. https://cannabinoid-hyperemesis.com/

Information about studies provided by Bloomly on this website is for education purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional health advice. Nothing contained in this site, or any external site linked to by Bloomly, is intended to be used as medical advice and it is not intended to be used to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease, nor should it be used for therapeutic purposes or as a substitute for your own health professional’s advice. Bloomly does not accept any liability for any injury, loss or damage incurred by use of or reliance on the information provided on this website, or any external site linked to by Bloomly. Further, Bloomly accepts no responsibility for material contained in a website that is linked to this site. It is the responsibility of the user to make their own decisions about the accuracy, currency, reliability, and correctness of information contained in linked external websites.