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What Is Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome?

June 26, 2025

If you’re a regular marijuana user and have experienced serious nausea or vomiting, it might not be something you ate — it could be cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome.

This overlooked and misunderstood condition is becoming more and more prevalent with the rise in legalized marijuana.

We spoke with Amir Masoud, MD, medical co-director of the Hartford HealthCare Neurogastroenterology & Motility Center, about what causes it, how to to recognize the symptoms, and why stopping cannabis use isn’t always the whole answer.

What does cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome feel like?

Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome doesn’t feel the same for everyone, but when it flares up, it can be intense and overwhelming.

It typically affects people who have used cannabis heavily and over a long period of time, triggering intense episodes of:

• Cyclical vomiting.
• Persistent nausea.
• Stomach pain.

“Vomiting is the hallmark symptom, but patients often experience sweating, chills and an urge to take hot showers,” explains Dr. Masoud. “Inadequate nutrition and hydration can further exacerbate fatigue and overall discomfort.”

> Related: 5 Things to Know Before Indulging in Legal Marijuana in Connecticut 

How long does an attack last?

Unfortunately, there’s no clear timeline. Episodes can last for days and recovery isn’t straightforward.

“Symptoms can persist for days before resolving on their own,” Dr. Masoud notes. “Patients often experience fluctuating periods of improvement and relapse.”

And one of the biggest challenges? Many people turn to more cannabis to help with the nausea, which can make symptoms worse.

“In the midst of a flare, additional cannabis use does not provide relief,” says Dr. Masoud. “The key is to step back and allow the body to recover.”

How can you make symptoms go away?

When you’re in the midst of a cannabinoid hyperemesis attack, treat it like a stomach bug — rest, hydrate and take it easy. In some cases, IV fluid or anti-nausea medication are necessary to manage symptoms.

But it’s important to understand that these are only short-term solutions.

“The only definitive way to eliminate CHS is complete cessation of cannabis use – but that’s often easier said than done,” says Dr. Masoud. “Many individuals depend on cannabis for symptom relief or appetite stimulation.”

And even after stopping cannabis use, recovery isn’t always quick.

“For some, improvement takes weeks or even months,” he adds. “The timeline varies significantly.”

> Related: Want more health news? Text StartHere to 85209 to sign up for text alerts

When to see a doctor.

If you’re dealing with cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome, you don’t have to go through it alone — your doctor can help.

“A physician’s role is not to judge why someone uses cannabis but to help them regain their health and prevent recurrent attacks,” says Dr. Masoud. “The goal is to keep patients out of the hospital and avoid complications such as dehydration or kidney dysfunction.”

The most effective step? Consulting a gastroenterologist.

“We take a personalized approach,” says Dr. Masoud. “We identify triggers, develop an individualized plan and consider medical therapies to ease the transition and prevent future episodes.”