Antidepressants pose risks to cosmetic surgery patients

Washington, Jan 6 (ANI): A research team from New York has found that using common antidepressants and herbal medications may have potentially harmful intraoperative effects on patients undergoing cosmetic surgical procedures.

The researchers conducted and reviewed case studies regarding the effects of the 29 most commonly used herbs and antidepressants, on anesthesia and surgery.

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They identified a number of harmful, intraoperative risks, ranging from increased bleeding to fatal interactions.

The researchers have established recommendations for the management of these medications before elective surgery.

They suggest 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.

This study appears in the January 2009 issue of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.(ANI)