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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Weed Smoker. Have To Remove A Tooth. Cannot Smoke Weed For 4 Weeks Prior To Sedation. Medical Reason?

Hi I am due to have sedation to have a tooth removed tomorrow morning. I am a moderate-heavy weed smoker, I smoke about a gram a day. My clinic ha said I can't smoke weed for 4 weeks prior to sedation. What is the actual medical reason for this? I smoke it in spliffs with rolling tobacco? Please help as I havnt stopped and don't want to have to rearrange if possible an I will be ok? Thanks
Wed, 13 Nov 2013
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Addiction Medicine Specialist,  's  Response
Hi,

Doctors advise you not to take marijuana before surgery because even by itself,
marijuana may cause cardiac arrhythmias, cardiac and respiratory depression, or even pulmonary edema. When taken in conjunction with an anesthetic, marijuana can cause severe complications. That is why it is advisable not to smoke a few weeks before surgery. While one cannot predict whether you actually will suffer from the complications or not, there is definitely a risk and a lot would depend on the status of your lungs and heart. I would recommend complete abstinence for at least a week before surgery, if not more.

Best wishes.
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Weed Smoker. Have To Remove A Tooth. Cannot Smoke Weed For 4 Weeks Prior To Sedation. Medical Reason?

Hi, Doctors advise you not to take marijuana before surgery because even by itself, marijuana may cause cardiac arrhythmias, cardiac and respiratory depression, or even pulmonary edema. When taken in conjunction with an anesthetic, marijuana can cause severe complications. That is why it is advisable not to smoke a few weeks before surgery. While one cannot predict whether you actually will suffer from the complications or not, there is definitely a risk and a lot would depend on the status of your lungs and heart. I would recommend complete abstinence for at least a week before surgery, if not more. Best wishes.