About this episode
Author: Dylan Luyten, M.D. Educational Pearls Cannabinoid Hyperemesis syndrome is a relatively new diagnosis that presents with vomiting and abdominal pain without a clear etiology in the setting of daily marijuana use. The pathophysiology is not well-understood well, but may involve cannabinoid receptors in the gut. Treatment is abstinence from marijuana, fluids, dextrose, and antiemetics (haldol, ondansetron, etc). Opioids should be avoided. Capsaicin cream on the abdomen may be helpful, as it can distract from the pain and vomiting. Milk can be used to reverse its effects. References: Galli JA, Sawaya RA, Friedenberg FK. Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome. Current drug abuse reviews . 2011;4(4):241-249.