Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome overview and update

Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS) is a medical condition which was identified for the first time in 2004 and affects chronic users of cannabis. It is characterized by cyclic episodes of uncontrollable vomiting as well as compulsive bathing in hot water. The episodes have a duration of two to four days. The vomiting is recognizable by a lack of response to regular antiemetic treatment, and subsides only with cannabis abstinence, reappearing in periods of consumption of this substance.
The etiology of this syndrome is unknown.
The average duration between the onset of acute CHS episodes and diagnosis is 3.1 years. This “delay” of CHS diagnosis demonstrates a lack of awareness with respect to this medical condition in the healthcare.