What Is ‘Scromiting’? U.S. Citizens Warned About Terrifying Cannabis Side Effect

Long-term recovery often depends on completely quitting cannabis, although addiction can make abstinence a challenge.

Scientists are still unsure why CHS affects some users and not others.

The leading theory suggests that overstimulation of the endocannabinoid system disrupts the body’s natural regulation of nausea and vomiting.Save on Rx

Dr. Buresh adds:

“It seems like there’s a threshold when people can become vulnerable to this condition, and that threshold is different for everyone. Even using in small amounts can make these people start throwing up.”

A study from George Washington University surveyed more than 1,000 CHS patients, finding that early and prolonged cannabis use is

 strongly linked to emergency room visits for scromiting.

Disturbingly, adolescent cases in the U.S. increased more than tenfold from 2016 to 2023, with the fastest rises occurring in states where recreational cannabis remains illegal. Interestingly, while overall CHS cases were more common in states where cannabis is legal, younger users saw more cases in states where it remains illegal.Buy Maps

CHS Officially Recognized

The World Health Organization formally recognized CHS on October 1, 2025, giving it an official diagnosis code. Carlini explained the significance:

“A new code for cannabis hyperemesis syndrome will supply important hard evidence on cannabis-adverse events, which physicians tell us is a growing problem.”

With emergency room visits climbing, experts warn that cannabis users—both teenagers and adults—need to be aware of this potentially debilitating condition