Anesthetists are aware of the growing popularity
of marijuana (cannabis). They see more of their
patients admitting to its use. However, many
anesthetists are not aware of the potential adverse
effects which may occur if marijuana is taken prior
to the administration of an anesthetic. By itself,
marijuana may cause cardiac arrhythmias, cardiac
and respiratory depression, or even pulmonary
edema. In conjunction with an anesthetic, marijuana can cause severe complications.