Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS): Understanding an Emerging Public Health Challenge

This webinar, presented by Ethan Russo, MD, and co-sponsored by the UW Addictions, Drug & Alcohol Institute's Cannabis Education & Research Program (CERP), will provide an overview of cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS), a constellation of intractable vomiting, abdominal pain, and hot bathing behavior that solely occurs in the context of certain heavy chronic use of THC-predominant cannabis, including synthetic cannabinoids.

Though multiple etiological theories of its causation have been advanced (e.g., pesticide or neem exposure), these have been largely debunked. CHS is associated with frequent emergency department visits with high associated expense (>$90K USD). Considerable morbidity and even some fatalities have been reported. The definitive treatment is abstention from cannabis usage, but parenteral haloperidol and cutaneous application of capsaicin ointment can provide symptomatic relief.

Ethan Russo, MD, is a board-certified child and adult neurologist, psychopharmacologist, and Founder/CEO of CReDO Science.He is also Chief Medical Officer to Andira Pharmaceuticals, Senior Medical Advisor to Canurta and Medical Director of Breeder’s Best. He is a past president of the International Cannabinoid Research Society (ICRS), and past chairman of the International Association for Cannabinoid Medicines (IACM).