Common antidepressants and herbal medications may have potentially harmful intraoperative effects on patients undergoing cosmetic surgical procedures, according to a new study appearing in the January 2009 issue of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. Researchers conducted and reviewed case studies regarding the effects of the 29 most commonly used herbs and antidepressants, on anesthesia and surgery. After identifying a number of harmful, intraoperative risks the authors established recommendations for the management of these medications before elective surgery, suggesting that patients using those antidepressants and herbs noted in the study consult with the prescribing physician about discontinuing use for up to two weeks prior to surgery.
[Source: Medical News Today]
