Beyond the Bliss

An alarming trend is emerging as cases of uncontrollable vomiting related to marijuana use are on the rise. A mysterious cannabis-related illness, known as Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS), is sending people to emergency rooms, sparking concerns about the impact on marijuana legalization worldwide. Today, we'll unravel the science behind this phenomenon and explore whether it poses a threat to the widespread acceptance of marijuana.

CHS was first identified in the early 2000s when several marijuana users in Australia experienced severe vomiting. Since then, the cases have been increasing, with Ontario, Canada, reporting a 13-fold rise in ER visits related to Cannabis-Induced Vomiting Syndrome between 2014 and 2021. In Colorado, where marijuana is legal, there was a 29% surge in vomiting-related ER visits from 2014 to 2019.

Key features of Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome include:

Chronic Cannabis Use: CHS is typically associated with long-term and heavy cannabis use. However, the exact mechanisms behind why some chronic users develop CHS while others do not are not well understood.

Episodic Symptoms: The syndrome is marked by episodes of intense nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. These symptoms can be severe and may lead to dehydration and weight loss.

Temporary Relief from Hot Baths or Showers: One distinctive feature of CHS is that individuals often find temporary relief from their symptoms by taking hot baths or showers. The reason behind this phenomenon is not completely clear.

In addition, doctors began noticing a peculiar behavior called "scromiting" among these cannabis users. Scromiting is a combination of screaming and vomiting, indicating a distinctive symptom of CHS. This unusual condition has raised questions about the potential impacts on individuals and the broader community.

So, what's causing marijuana to make people sick? The key lies in the endocannabinoid system, a widespread neurobiology system in the body that regulates balance or homeostasis. Marijuana contains molecules that mimic natural neurotransmitters, affecting the CB1 receptors in the brain. This overstimulation of the endocannabinoid system, especially with prolonged and high marijuana use, disrupts the body's ability to control nausea, anxiety, and vomiting, leading to CHS.

Physiologically, cannabis consumption modulates serotonin in the brain areas controlling nausea and vomiting. While low doses can be therapeutic for certain conditions, chronic and high amounts of marijuana disrupt the endocannabinoid system, causing physiological deregulation. This imbalance can result in uncontrollable vomiting, anxiety, and disrupted homeostasis, manifesting as CHS.

Moreover, marijuana affects the stomach, influencing hunger hormones and gut hormones. While it may induce the "munchies" in moderate amounts, excessive consumption can lead to a decrease in appetite, eventually contributing to the development of CHS.

Research indicates that individuals who consume around 4 grams of marijuana per day, roughly eight large joints, are more likely to experience CHS. The rise in cases is particularly pronounced in areas where marijuana is legalized, such as Alberta, Canada. In 2020, there was a significant increase in cannabis-induced syndrome patients, with young adults aged 16 to 24 being notably affected.

While CHS is a concerning development, the impact on marijuana legalization remains uncertain. In places like Canada, where marijuana is legal along with alcohol and cigarettes, the comparison raises questions about relative risks. Researchers suggest that while legalization might continue, awareness of CHS and its effects on the endocannabinoid system is crucial for making informed decisions.

Maintaining homeostasis in the body is vital, and the endocannabinoid system plays a crucial role. Excessive marijuana consumption can disrupt this balance, affecting sleep, mood, anxiety, and vomiting control. As discussions about marijuana use and its consequences unfold, further research and funding are necessary to fully understand and address this relatively new and concerning disease."