Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome in a 17-Year-Old Adolescent

Cannabis is the most widely used illicit drug in the world. In Canada, cannabis use has been decreasing among youth since 2008. However, it is still two times more prevalent than among adults. A distinct syndrome, characterized by recurrent vomiting associated with abdominal pain and compulsive bathing, has been increasingly recognized in chronic adult users. The cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS) is still underdiagnosed among adults and even more among adolescents. The authors describe the case of a 17-year-old adolescent, who sought emergency care five times over a year for uncontrolled nausea, profuse vomiting, and weight loss. The patient's symptoms were ameliorated by repetitive hot showering and by avoiding cannabis use. Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome is a clinical diagnosis and should be consider in every case of cyclical vomiting. A review of the clinical aspects and the treatment is presented here.