IV Therapy for Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS)
Cannabis is often praised for its calming effects, but for some individuals, it can trigger a little-known condition with debilitating symptoms: Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS). At purelyIV, we’ve supported many clients across Metro Detroit experiencing CHS and developed a unique IV therapy approach to help ease symptoms and support recovery—all in the comfort of home.
Let’s explore what CHS is, how to recognize it, and how our rotating IV therapy protocol can help provide effective relief.
What Is Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS)?
CHS is a condition that can result from cannabis use—even in some infrequent or occasional users. Although cannabis is often used to reduce nausea, in certain individuals it can cause the opposite effect: cyclical episodes of intense nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. The exact cause isn’t fully understood, but it’s believed to involve overstimulation of cannabinoid receptors in the gut and brain.
One of the hallmark symptoms of CHS is temporary relief with hot showers or baths, which many sufferers instinctively turn to during an episode.
CHS vs. Overindulgence: How to Tell the Difference
It’s easy to confuse CHS with a hangover or stomach bug, especially if someone recently consumed cannabis, alcohol, or heavy food. But CHS has more severe and longer-lasting symptoms that come in cycles:
Overindulgence vs. CHS Symptoms
Mild, short-lived nausea → Severe, unrelenting nausea
Vomiting once or twice → Vomiting repeatedly, often hourly
Improves with rest → Lasts for several days or more
Caused by alcohol or food → Triggered by cannabis use
No pattern → Recurs in cycles unless cannabis is stopped
Identifying CHS correctly is critical to getting appropriate care. Many people with CHS visit the ER multiple times before receiving an accurate diagnosis.
Long-Term Effects of CHS
Without proper support, CHS can lead to:
Severe dehydration and electrolyte loss
Malnutrition due to inability to eat or retain fluids
Kidney strain from fluid imbalance
Anxiety and mental stress from repeat episodes
Increased ER visits and missed time from work or school
While the only definitive cure is discontinuing cannabis use, IV therapy can help relieve acute symptoms and aid recovery when episodes occur.
How IV Therapy Supports CHS Relief
During a CHS episode, most clients can’t keep food or fluids down, making oral hydration and nutrition nearly impossible. IV therapy may offer benefits by:
Rehydrating the body quickly
Replenishing depleted electrolytes and nutrients
Easing nausea and GI irritation
Our Rotating IV Therapy Protocol for CHS Relief
At purelyIV, we’ve found that using a rotating protocol provides broader support for CHS symptoms. Each visit delivers targeted hydration and symptom relief, but with slightly different formulations on alternating days to address the wide range of needs during recovery.
IV Therapy – Infusion A
This drip focuses on treating nausea and acid irritation, while supporting energy and electrolyte balance. It includes ingredients to soothe the stomach, replenish key nutrients, and assist cellular function.
IV Therapy – Infusion B
On the following day (if needed), we administer a second IV with a similar base but alternate support nutrients. This helps avoid over-reliance on a single formulation and provides a more comprehensive nutrient profile that includes support for gut health, immune function, and continued nausea relief.
Used on alternating treatment days as needed, this infusion builds on the same foundational base while introducing complementary nutrients. It broadens the therapeutic spectrum with additional support for gut health, immune modulation, and sustained relief from nausea—while helping reduce the risk of nutrient overload from repeated single-formula use.
This rotating approach is especially helpful when CHS symptoms last for several days, as it allows for ongoing relief and deeper replenishment.
When to Seek Additional Medical Care
IV therapy can offer meaningful symptom relief, but you should seek emergency care if:
Vomiting persists for 24+ hours with no improvement
You feel lightheaded, disoriented, or can’t keep down small sips of fluid
You notice blood in vomit or stool
Abdominal pain is severe or localized
Our team can help assess your situation and guide you on the appropriate next steps if home care isn’t enough.
Discreet, In-Home Relief from CHS
When you’re in the middle of a CHS episode, the last thing you want is to sit in an ER or urgent care waiting room. Our team brings expert care to you, making it easier to focus on rest and recovery.
In-home IV treatments tailored for CHS
No waiting rooms, no judgment
Ongoing treatments may be recommended depending on patient tolerance and persistent symptoms
Serving clients in Rochester Hills, Troy, Sterling Heights, Royal Oak, and throughout the Metro Detroit area
If you’re suffering from CHS or know someone who is, reach out to purelyIV for compassionate, effective relief—delivered right to your door.
Disclaimer: The information in this blog post is for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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References
Sorensen CJ, DeSanto K, Borgelt L, Phillips KT, Monte AA. Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome: Diagnosis, Pathophysiology, and Treatment—A Systematic Review. J Med Toxicol. 2017;13(1):71-87. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13181-016-0595-z
Habboushe J, Rubin A, Liu H, Hoffman RS. The Prevalence of Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome Among Regular Marijuana Smokers in an Urban Public Hospital. Basic Clin Pharmacol Toxicol. 2018;122(6):660-662. https://doi.org/10.1111/bcpt.12962
National Institutes of Health – Office of Dietary Supplements
https://ods.od.nih.govAmerican College of Gastroenterology – CHS Guidelines
https://gi.org
