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Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome: an underreported entity causing nausea and vomiting of pregnancy

  • Materno-Fetal Medicine
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Abstract

Introduction

In the western world, cannabis is the most widely used drug of abuse. Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome, which seems to be a rare paradoxical reaction in individuals with a particular predisposition, is characterized by cyclic severe nausea and vomiting in long-term cannabis users. While the symptoms are unresponsive to antiemetic drugs, compulsive hot baths result in a considerable symptom relief.

Methods

We report the first case of cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome in pregnancy. A 26-year-old patient was admitted to our clinic in the 10th week of gestation.

Conclusion

Before undertaking time-consuming and expensive medical examinations to rule out other medical reasons for therapy-resistant hyperemesis in pregnancy, obstetricians should determine whether compulsive bathing or showering provides symptomatic relief and ask specific questions regarding possible/suspected cannabis consumption.

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Correspondence to Uwe Güth.

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Schmid, S.M., Lapaire, O., Huang, D.J. et al. Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome: an underreported entity causing nausea and vomiting of pregnancy. Arch Gynecol Obstet 284, 1095–1097 (2011). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00404-010-1811-8

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00404-010-1811-8

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