Is it safe to use cannabis before surgery to relax?

More and more people are turning to cannabis to calm anxiety or relax, and it's not uncommon for the question to arise before surgery: "Can I use it to calm myself before the procedure?" The answer, as with almost everything in

In medicine, it depends on the type of cannabis, the dose, and the context.

The main principle is clear: high-THC cannabis should not be used in the 24 to 72 hours prior to surgery. THC, responsible for the psychoactive effect, can alter heart rate, blood pressure, and the body's response to anesthetics. Furthermore, it can cause paradoxical anxiety, disorientation, and increase the amount of anesthesia required.

All of this complicates a moment when the body needs stability and control.

On the other hand, CBD (cannabidiol), especially in pure formulations or those with minimal THC, can have an anxiolytic effect without interfering with anesthesia. Sublingual doses of 25 to 50 mg, taken one or two hours before the procedure, can induce a mild sense of calm without altering consciousness or cardiovascular function. However, this should only be done with the approval of the anesthesiologist or attending physician.

The best advice is transparency and caution. Always inform your medical team about any recent cannabis use, avoid edibles or long-acting products the night before, and combine your preparation with natural relaxation techniques such as the 4-7-8 breathing exercise, soothing music, or guided meditation.

Cannabis can be an ally for well-being, but in the operating room, safety is paramount. Used with knowledge, respect, and medical supervision, its therapeutic potential is not lost: it is channeled.

Dr. Jaime Claudio Villamil

Professor of cannabis medicine

Faculty of Family Medicine - UPR

@jaimeclaudiovillamil