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A case of cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome caused by synthetic cannabinoids
Christopher Y Hopkins1, Brandi L Gilchrist
1Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Florida - Jacksonville Health Science Center, Jacksonville, Florida.
Background:
Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS) was initially described in 2004 and remains an under-recognized clinical entity that occurs in chronic heavy marijuana smokers.
Case Report:
We describe the first report of CHS in an abuser of synthetic cannabinoids. CHS is thought to be caused by over-stimulation of the cannabinoid 1 receptor. The synthetic cannabinoids found in K2, Spice, and other commonly abused designer cannabinoids, including those used by our patient (JWH-018, JWH-073, JWH-122, AM-2201, and AM-694), are potent agonists of the cannabinoid 1 receptor.
Conclusion:
Our report suggests that frequent habitual smoking of synthetic cannabinoids can cause cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome.
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