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WHO recognizes dangerous cannabis vomiting disorder amid alarming cases

Nov 29, 2025, 3:11 PM10
(Update: Nov 29, 2025, 3:11 PM)
specialized agency of the United Nations that is concerned with international public health

WHO recognizes dangerous cannabis vomiting disorder amid alarming cases

  • Cannabis hyperemesis syndrome (CHS) has been officially recognized by the WHO, leading to a distinct diagnostic code.
  • Cases of CHS have significantly increased, particularly in the United States, with a notable rise during the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • Health experts believe the recognition of CHS will enhance diagnosis, improve patient outcomes, and help monitor this growing health issue.
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In October 2023, the World Health Organization officially recognized cannabis hyperemesis syndrome (CHS) as a serious medical condition by adding it to its diagnostic manual. CHS primarily affects chronic cannabis users and is characterized by severe symptoms including intense nausea, violent vomiting, abdominal pain, and dehydration. In some instances, the condition can escalate to fatal complications like kidney failure and heart rhythm problems. As medical professionals struggled to accurately diagnose CHS due to its symptoms mimicking various other conditions like food poisoning, this new classification offers clearer guidance for both diagnosis and treatment. Currently, reports indicate a significant rise in emergency room visits related to CHS, particularly in the United States, where cases surged during the COVID-19 pandemic and have remained elevated ever since. The increasing prevalence of high-potency cannabis products, which often contain upwards of 90% THC, has been linked to this growth in CHS cases by some health experts. Dr. Chris Buresh and other medical professionals emphasize that individuals with a history of cannabis use may suddenly develop CHS symptoms even after years of no issues, suggesting a critical need for improved awareness and treatment options. Although cannabis is legal in various jurisdictions and is often seen as relatively harmless, the newly established diagnostic code by the WHO aims to improve surveillance of CHS, particularly as high-potency cannabis becomes more accessible. Experts believe that by formally recognizing this syndrome, healthcare providers will have better mechanisms for tracking and addressing the health ramifications associated with cannabis use. Beatriz Carlini, a research associate at the University of Washington, supports this addition as a means to collect quantitative data, advocating for its role in shaping public health responses. While stopping cannabis use is currently the only proven method to alleviate CHS symptoms, the condition's fluctuating nature can complicate the decision for users to quit. Many experience episodic symptoms that lead them to believe they can continue using cannabis without experiencing problems. However, health professionals warn that even small amounts can trigger severe reactions in those with a prior history of CHS, highlighting the urgent need for public awareness and education regarding the dangers of prolonged cannabis use.

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