Anesthesiologists reveal risks of using marijuana for pain control

The American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) has raised concerns about improper marijuana use. A recent survey asked Americans if they are interested in using marijuana to treat pain. Results show 75 percent of the respondents agree. They believe it is safe and have fewer side effects than opioids or other medications.

There is misinformation due to lack of research

The sample showed that millennials have expressed great interest in the use of this plant. Generation X and baby boomers also have high expectations about its properties.

The survey indicated that more than two-thirds had used or intended to use cannabis. This also includes cannabinoid compounds such as cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).

Dr. Linda J. Mason, president of the ASA, said that the use of marijuana comes with a huge risk. In addition, there is not enough research on the safety and effectiveness of the plant.

There are other alternatives for pain control

Dr. Mason suggested that patients must first talk with health specialists. This is to develop a personalized plan to help them reduce their pain.

However, such treatments, according to Dr. Mason, include alternative non-opioid medications and other therapies. Furthermore, these also include injections, nerve blocks, radio waves, and spinal cord stimulation.

Unregulated cannabis have dangerous side effects

About side effects, she said they range from excessive drowsiness to liver damage. It is quite possible the quality of these cannabis products is not controlled.

Mason hinted that marijuana and cannabinoids are currently in unknown territory. There is no way for people to know exactly what they are buying because there is no regulation.

Ingredient labels might not be entirely honest

Furthermore, it is worth mentioning that 33 states in America have already legalized marijuana. However, this is both for recreational or medical use, and even so, each state establishes its own regulations.

Still, the label of a marijuana product may not list all ingredients. It may very well contain dangerous synthetic compounds, pesticides, and other impurities.

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First published in Nacion Cannabis, a third-party contributor translated and adapted the article from the original. In case of discrepancy, the original will prevail.

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