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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Is There A Specific Risk In Using Cannabis After An Upper Endoscopy With General Anesthesia?

Hi, I just had an upper endoscopy this morning. It went well and I feel mostly back to my normal self. I am a regular cannabis user and was wondering how long, if it all, I should wait before resuming my cannabis usage. My doctors advised me to wait 24 hours, but I’d just like to know if there is a legitimate reason for that beyond the typical better safe than sorry doctor philosophy. Is there some adverse effect with general anesthesia and cannabis? I understand it takes a full day for the anesthesia to get completely flushed out of the system, but once again I feel pretty normal and was just wondering if I can resume my cannabis habits. Thank you!
Sat, 29 Mar 2025
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Hello,

Depending on your overall health and the type of GA used, there can be certain risks, so it is commonly advised to wait at least 24 hours before using cannabis to allow anesthesia to fully wear off. Stay hydrated and monitor for any unusual symptoms like difficulty breathing, extreme dizziness, or prolonged nausea. Cannibis can delay recovery as it can prolong cognitive impairment, making it harder to function normally post-procedure.

GA can cause lingering drowsiness, confusion, and impaired coordination for hours or even a day. GA and cannabis can affect heart rate and BP depending upon any underlying cardiac condition you have. You are advised not to use cannabis presently, as it can irritate the airways. If you had a history of breathing issues (e.g., asthma, sleep apnea), combining cannabis with residual anesthetic effects may increase respiratory risks.

Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. Nupur K., General & Family Physician
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Is There A Specific Risk In Using Cannabis After An Upper Endoscopy With General Anesthesia?

Hello, Depending on your overall health and the type of GA used, there can be certain risks, so it is commonly advised to wait at least 24 hours before using cannabis to allow anesthesia to fully wear off. Stay hydrated and monitor for any unusual symptoms like difficulty breathing, extreme dizziness, or prolonged nausea. Cannibis can delay recovery as it can prolong cognitive impairment, making it harder to function normally post-procedure. GA can cause lingering drowsiness, confusion, and impaired coordination for hours or even a day. GA and cannabis can affect heart rate and BP depending upon any underlying cardiac condition you have. You are advised not to use cannabis presently, as it can irritate the airways. If you had a history of breathing issues (e.g., asthma, sleep apnea), combining cannabis with residual anesthetic effects may increase respiratory risks. Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Nupur K., General & Family Physician