Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome Is Associated With High Disease Burden: An Internet-Based Survey

Area of Science:

• Medical Research
• Public Health
• Cannabis Studies

Background:

• Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS) is a condition causing severe vomiting and abdominal pain in chronic cannabis users.
• It is often underrecognized, leading to significant patient distress and healthcare utilization.
• Understanding the factors contributing to CHS is crucial for effective management and prevention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the disease burden of self-reported CHS.
• To investigate the association between heavy cannabis use, early initiation of cannabis use, and CHS episode frequency.
• To highlight the impact of CHS on healthcare utilization.

Main Methods:

• An internet-based survey was distributed to individuals with self-reported CHS.
• 1,052 participants completed the survey, providing data on their cannabis use patterns and health experiences.
• Data analysis focused on correlations between cannabis use characteristics and CHS symptom frequency.

Main Results:

• The majority of participants reported frequent cannabis use.
• Significant healthcare utilization was observed, including emergency department visits and hospitalizations.
• Heavy daily cannabis use and adolescent initiation of use were associated with increased CHS episode frequency.

Conclusions:

• CHS represents a substantial disease burden, particularly within online support communities.
• Heavy daily cannabis use and initiation of use during adolescence may increase the risk and frequency of CHS episodes.
• Further research into heavy cannabis users is needed to fully understand CHS and its associated risks.