Unraveling the Enigma of Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome: A Narrative Review of Diagnosis and Management

Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS) is a serious condition primarily seen in chronic cannabis users, characterized by persistent cycles of severe nausea and vomiting, often leading to frequent emergency room visits. Accurate diagnosis is crucial due to the overlap with other gastrointestinal disorders. The traditional use of antiemetics such as ondansetron often fails to alleviate symptoms, making CHS difficult to manage. More effective treatments, such as haloperidol and topical capsaicin, have shown promise in reducing symptoms. Comprehensive management, including cannabis cessation, is essential. This narrative review explores current and emerging treatments for CHS, emphasizing the need for tailored therapeutic strategies and further research to improve patient outcomes. Pressing research needs include being able to predict who will develop CHS and optimizing interventions to reach those who are resistant to stopping cannabis use. As a narrative review, this study does not include statistical summary methods but emphasizes current knowledge and gaps to inform future studies.