Inhaled Isopropyl Alcohol for Refractory Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome: A Case With Pneumomediastinum and Pneumothorax

Cannabis hyperemesis syndrome (CHS) is a well-recognized condition associated with chronic cannabis use, characterized by recurrent nausea, retching, vomiting, and relief with hot showers. Management is challenging, particularly as symptoms are refractory to conventional antiemetic therapy. We report the case of a 26-year-old man with a history of daily cannabis use who presented with severe retching and vomiting, complicated by pneumothorax and pneumomediastinum. His nausea and retching persisted despite multiple antiemetic therapies but responded rapidly to inhaled isopropyl alcohol (IPA) swabs. This case highlights the potential role of non-pharmacological aromatherapy as a safe and effective adjunct in managing refractory CHS while also underscoring the serious complications that can occur from severe persistent emesis.