Nausea (general)
Nausea not caused by chemotherapy. The strong evidence is specific to chemotherapy — this is weaker ground.
What the evidence says
Extrapolated from the chemotherapy-induced nausea finding. Not separately established by NASEM for general nausea.
The substantial NASEM evidence for cannabinoid antiemetics is specifically about chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting. Nausea from other causes has not been established in the same way.
There is an important counter-risk. Long-term heavy cannabis use can cause cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome — cyclical severe vomiting, often relieved temporarily by hot showers. Because cannabis normally treats nausea, people frequently respond to CHS by using more, which makes it worse. The only definitive treatment is stopping cannabis.
What to ask for
This is a starting point, not a prescription. Take it to a licensed dispensary and ask to see the batch certificate of analysis.
- Suggested ratio
- Low-dose THC
- Starting THC dose
- 2.5 mg
- Commonly chosen profile
- Balanced hybrid
- Time of day
- either
Cannabinoids
- THC
The main intoxicating compound in cannabis. It drives most of what people mean by "high," and it is also the cannabinoid behind most documented therapeutic effects.
Terpenes to look for
Commonly present in products people choose for this. Terpene effect claims are preclinical — this is a way to find a product again, not a promise about how it will feel.
Formats
- Vape cartridgeOnset 1–10 min · lasts 2–4 h
Concentrated cannabis oil in a battery-powered cartridge. Discreet, potent, and easy to over-do.
- FlowerOnset 1–10 min · lasts 2–4 h
Dried cannabis, smoked or dry-herb vaporised. Fast onset makes it the easiest format to titrate.
- TinctureOnset 15–90 min · lasts 4–8 h
Liquid extract dosed by dropper. The most precise way to titrate an oral dose in small increments.
Get a personalised starting point
Answer four questions and we will adjust the dose for your experience level and find licensed dispensaries near you.
Get guidanceTalk to a doctor if
- • You cannot keep fluids down
- • You have cyclical vomiting relieved by hot showers — this may be cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome
- • Nausea comes with severe abdominal pain, chest pain, or a stiff neck
- • You are pregnant
Related conditions
- Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomitingNausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy. One of three indications with substantial evidence, and the basis for two FDA-approved medicines.
- Appetite loss with HIV/AIDSLoss of appetite and weight in HIV/AIDS. Limited evidence, and the basis for one of dronabinol's FDA indications.
- IBS and inflammatory bowel diseaseDigestive conditions with pain and disrupted bowel function. Symptom relief may help; disease activity does not appear to change.