marijuana offers hope of postoperative pain relief, yet patients must be wary of its possible risks. According to new research, those who consume or smoke cannabis before surgery may need more anesthetic, have worse post-op pain, and require higher dosages of opioids to manage it.
Studies involving 34,000 elective surgery patients at Cleveland Clinic who reported using marijuana within 30 days experienced 14% more pain afterward and required 7% more opioids to manage it than those who didn’t, in line with previous research. These results corroborate existing data.
1. Cannabinoids
Cannabis contains phytochemicals that engage your body’s regulatory system known as the endocannabinoid system. This system regulates responses such as pain and inflammation responses, hunger signals and mood. Cannabis compounds interact with CB1 and CB2 receptors within your body to relieve pain, stimulate appetite and relax muscles – potentially aiding post surgery recovery efforts.
Studies demonstrate the efficacy and tolerability of cannabis as an analgesic adjunct, helping reduce opioid usage during surgery. RCTs and non-RCTs comparing dronabinol with other analgesics revealed cannabis was associated with reduced postoperative opioid consumption.
Cannabis users should inform their surgeon or anesthesiologist prior to surgery as its use could interfere with anesthesia, increase bleeding risk, alter breathing or interact with other medications they are taking.
2. Terpenes
Terpenes are aromatic molecules responsible for creating the distinct scent of cannabis plants. While terpenes don’t possess psychoactive properties or make you high, they do interact with our bodies’ endocannabinoid system in ways that enhance cannabinoid effects – this phenomenon is known as “The Entourage Effect.”
Research suggests that terpenes can aid with pain management. Myrcene, for example, has been shown to reduce inflammation and soothe symptoms for those suffering from arthritis. Pinene possesses anti-inflammatory properties which can be found naturally in pine trees and basil plants.
Studies indicate that terpenes may provide an effective alternative to prescription NSAIDs and opioids for pain relief after surgery, however further clinical trials must take place before these findings can be verified. As an interim solution, doctors advise trying other forms of medication like over-the-counter ibuprofen or acetaminophen, or combination products like hydrocodone/acetaminophen (Vicodin). Patients can also try non-medication approaches like physical therapy or massage as additional strategies to lessen discomfort.
3. Flavonoids
Although marijuana can provide effective pain relief, it should be remembered that its effects may also include negative side effects. Therefore, before considering cannabis as a pain reliever option, always consult your doctor or healthcare provider first as they will know which strain would work best with other medications or supplements you are taking.
Opioids work by blocking signals from nociceptive neurons; THC activates CB2 receptors in the brain which inhibit pain via yet-unknown mechanisms, making cannabis an appealing alternative for patients seeking to avoid opioid’s harmful side effects and increase appetite compared to opioids which decrease it and lead to nausea; moreover, opioids can be highly addictive with an increased risk of lethal overdose.
4. Essential Oils
Essential oils have been demonstrated to effectively manage pain, anxiety, nausea and stress after surgery. Essential oils can be inhaled directly through breathing or diffused for maximum effect or applied topically for maximum efficacy.
Studies have revealed that lavender, helichrysum, clary sage, mandarin and citrus eucalyptus oil – among others – can effectively ease pain, reduce inflammation and assist the body’s natural healing processes. Furthermore, these substances also possess antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral properties.
Before trying any new remedies containing essential oils or herbs, such as essential oils or herbs that could possibly interact with certain medications used during and after your surgery, it is a good idea to consult with an anesthesiologist first and make a list of all supplements or treatments you plan to take before your procedure – some essential oils could potentially interact with some drugs and lead to unwanted side effects.
5. Other Compounds
Cannabis contains several compounds that may further augment its pain-relief capabilities, depending on strain and dosage. Terpenes, flavonoids and essential oils all offer various medicinal advantages that could contribute to improved pain relief.
THC and CBD act on CB1 and CB2 receptors located throughout the brain and spinal cord to produce psychoactive effects as well as appetite stimulation and pain relief. Furthermore, humans produce their own cannabinoids which also act on these receptors to reduce anxiety and minimize nausea.
Though marijuana can provide pain relief, its use prior and after surgery should be approached with caution. Long-term consumption could result in respiratory problems as well as interactions between its use and medications used during anesthesia procedures. Furthermore, smoking marijuana in some states is illegal – patients using this substance should inform their doctors prior to any surgery being scheduled.