Abstract

In recent years in the United States there has been a shift towards legalization of marijuana for medical and recreational purposes. The medical use of cannabis is legalized in 33 states, 4 territories and the district of Columbia. Medical marijuana use was legalized in Puerto Rico in 2015.  Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS) is one of the effects of the use of cannabis.  This paper will attempt to introduce CHS to providers in Puerto and provide suggestions for incorporating the diagnosis and treatment modalities into the healthcare system of Puerto Rico. Electronic searches in PubMed from 2000 to 2019, the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature were used. A hand search of selected specialist journals and reference lists of articles obtained was then conducted. A total of 22 articles were reviewed. Literature review indicated that Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS) is fairly new and that healthcare providers must consider this syndrome in patients on medical marijuana. Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS) is possible in patients using medical marijuana. This further increases the need for surveillance and proper therapeutic managements. CHS needs to be added to the list of diagnosis in Puerto Rico. Health care plans would also need to begin the process for inclusion of CHS in list of covered disorders and formulate mechanisms for reimbursement and other healthcare finance approvals.

Key words: Medical marijuana, Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome, Therapeutic managements