R.E.B.E.L.EM - October 01, 2020 - By Mark Ramzy
Paper: Dean D, et al. A Pilot Trial of Topical Capsaicin Cream for Treatment of Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome. Academic Emergency Medicine. 2020. PMID: 32569429
"Clinical Question:
What is the safety and efficacy of topical capsaicin cream for vomiting from suspected cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome in the emergency department?
Author’s Conclusions:
In this pilot trial, the application of topical capsaicin cream was associated with a significant reduction in nausea at 60 minutes but not at 30 minutes and provided more complete relief of nausea.
Clinical Bottom Line:
Widespread availability, low cost, low adverse effect profile and ability to reduce nausea at 60 minutes are all factors that favor the use of capsaicin cream in the treatment of patients with CHS. Although not statistically significant, there were trends toward higher proportion of patients with complete nausea relief, overall rates of vomiting and need for rescue medications again favoring the capsaicin arm. Due to this study being underpowered, major conclusions cannot be drawn however this pilot trial provides direction for planning larger scale, adequately powered, clinical trials on this topic."