Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome in Adolescents: A Narrative Review

TL;DR

Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome is a condition causing cyclic vomiting in cannabis users, and this review focuses on its challenges in adolescents.

Contribution

This review synthesizes current knowledge on CHS in the pediatric population, emphasizing diagnostic and treatment challenges.

Findings

CHS is increasingly diagnosed due to rising cannabis use, especially among young people.

Standard anti-emetic therapies show limited efficacy in treating CHS in adolescents.

Cessation of cannabis use is crucial for managing CHS symptoms in pediatric patients.

Abstract

Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS) is characterized by a pattern of cyclic vomiting and abdominal pain despite an absence of an organic cause, occurring in regular cannabis users. This syndrome was first described in 2004. Initially considered rare, with the increased use and legalization of cannabis, a growing incidence of diagnoses has been observed. Data on the pediatric population are still scant despite the high rate of cannabis consumption in young people. In this narrative review, we aim to synthesize the growing knowledge about CHS and its epidemiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management in the pediatric population. Findings in this review highlight the diagnostic challenges in pediatric patients, the limited efficacy of standard anti-emetic therapies, and the central role of cannabis cessation in treatment. This review underscores the need for increased awareness of CHS in pediatric practice to ensure timely diagnosis and avoid unnecessary investigations and interventions.

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