National survey data linked cannabis use to lower odds of some GI illnesses but the picture is complex
Analysis of NHANES data from 2005-2018 found cannabis use associated with reduced odds of certain gastrointestinal illnesses in adults, while heavy use has separately been linked to intractable vomiting.
Quick Facts
What This Study Found
Cannabis use was associated with lower odds of some gastrointestinal tract illnesses in a large nationally representative sample. This contrasts with increasing reports of cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome among heavy users.
Key Numbers
NHANES 2005-2018 data. Non-pregnant adults ages 20-59 without cancer or HIV (approximately 18,000+ participants). Cannabis use associated with reduced odds of certain GI illnesses.
How They Did This
Cross-sectional analysis of NHANES data (2005-2018). Included non-pregnant adults ages 20-59 without cancer or HIV (n~18,000+). Examined associations between cannabis use and GI illness.
Why This Research Matters
The relationship between cannabis and the gut is paradoxical: it has antiemetic properties used in chemotherapy but can also cause severe vomiting in heavy users. Large population-level data helps map this complex relationship.
The Bigger Picture
The endocannabinoid system is active throughout the gastrointestinal tract, and cannabis affects gut motility, inflammation, and nausea pathways. The dual nature of cannabis (antiemetic at moderate use, potentially emetogenic at heavy use) complicates simple messaging.
What This Study Doesn't Tell Us
Cross-sectional NHANES data cannot establish causation. Self-reported cannabis use and GI diagnoses. Healthy user bias possible (sicker people may avoid cannabis). Cannot distinguish cannabis use patterns (frequency, method, potency). Cannabinoid hyperemesis likely underdiagnosed in survey data.
Questions This Raises
- ?At what level of use does the antiemetic benefit of cannabis shift to emetogenic risk?
- ?Would prospective studies with detailed use patterns clarify the dose-response relationship?
Trust & Context
- Key Stat:
- Cannabis associated with lower GI illness odds in national survey of 18,000+ adults
- Evidence Grade:
- Large nationally representative dataset with validated measures. Cross-sectional design and self-report limit causal inference.
- Study Age:
- Published 2023. NHANES data 2005-2018.
- Original Title:
- Cannabis use and gastrointestinal tract illnesses: The National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys, 2005-2018.
- Published In:
- Drug and alcohol review, 42(4), 785-790 (2023)
- Authors:
- Vanderziel, Alyssa(5), Alshaarawy, Omayma(9)
- Database ID:
- RTHC-04996
Evidence Hierarchy
A snapshot of a population at one point in time.
What do these levels mean? →Frequently Asked Questions
Is cannabis good or bad for the stomach?
It depends on the pattern of use. This national survey found cannabis use associated with lower rates of some GI illnesses at the population level. However, heavy, chronic cannabis use has been linked to cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome, involving severe, cyclical vomiting. The relationship appears dose-dependent and complex.
What is cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome?
Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS) is a condition seen in heavy, long-term cannabis users characterized by repeated episodes of severe nausea and vomiting. Hot showers or baths typically provide temporary relief. CHS resolves with cannabis cessation. It is increasingly recognized in emergency departments.
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Cite This Study
https://rethinkthc.com/research/RTHC-04996APA
Vanderziel, Alyssa; Alshaarawy, Omayma. (2023). Cannabis use and gastrointestinal tract illnesses: The National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys, 2005-2018.. Drug and alcohol review, 42(4), 785-790. https://doi.org/10.1111/dar.13609
MLA
Vanderziel, Alyssa, et al. "Cannabis use and gastrointestinal tract illnesses: The National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys, 2005-2018.." Drug and alcohol review, 2023. https://doi.org/10.1111/dar.13609
RethinkTHC
RethinkTHC Research Database. "Cannabis use and gastrointestinal tract illnesses: The Natio..." RTHC-04996. Retrieved from https://rethinkthc.com/research/vanderziel-2023-cannabis-use-and-gastrointestinal
Access the Original Study
Study data sourced from PubMed, a service of the U.S. National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health.
This study breakdown was produced by the RethinkTHC research team. We analyze and report published research findings without making health recommendations. All interpretations are based solely on the published abstract and study data.