Gastrointestinal manifestations of synthetic cannabinoids: a retrospective cohort study

Abstract Background Synthetic cannabinoids (SC) are chemical substances which activate cannabinoid receptors similarly to tetrahydrocannabinol, but with a higher efficacy. These used as illicit recreational drugs, often smoked herbal mixtures. The continuing availability and rapid evolution of SC is an ongoing health risk. adverse effects wide ranging, span from mild behavioral changes death. Knowledge regarding gastrointestinal (GI) manifestations use sparse. Methods Single tertiary-care referral medical center retrospective study. Results records patients presented hospital emergency care due between January 2014 February 2018 were retrieved Hadassah Mount Scopus Hospital’s computerized database. reviewed for clinical outcomes laboratory tests. Fifty-five (55) identified presentation use. Twenty-one (21) out 55 (38%) reported complaints. most common complaints abdominal pain vomiting. Of those, 28% had recurrent department presentations 66% leukocytosis. Serum lactate was elevated in GI manifestations. One patient abnormal tomography (CT) angiography scan, compatible intestinal ischemia. Conclusions spectrum intoxication ranges symptoms, such vomiting, even more severe symptoms suggestive Clinicians should be aware that other can associated