A Preliminary Study on the Influence of Cannabis and Opioid Use on Weight Loss and Mental Health Biomarkers Post-Weight Loss Surgery
Denise C. Vidot, Sapna Deo, Sylvia Daunert, Nestor de la Cruz-Munoz, Sarah E. Messiah
- This study used objective biological measurements to examine how cannabis and opioid use influence both weight loss and mental health after weight loss surgery.
- After bariatric surgery, the body processes substances differently due to smaller stomach size, changed absorption, and altered appetite hormones.
- The study measured stress hormone (cortisol) and mood-regulating chemical (serotonin) markers, providing more objective assessment than self-reported use alone.
- Some patients experience 'addiction transfer,' where compulsive eating is replaced by other compulsive behaviors after surgery.
- This is one of seven publications by the research team examining substance use and behavioral health after bariatric surgery.
- For patients with substance use concerns, this demonstrates evidence-based, nonjudgmental guidance is part of comprehensive care.
This preliminary study published in Obesity Surgery examined the influence of cannabis and opioid use on weight loss outcomes and mental health biomarkers among patients who had undergone weight loss surgery. As cannabis legalization expands and opioid use remains a public health concern, understanding how these substances affect bariatric surgery outcomes has become increasingly important for patients and clinicians. Dr. de la Cruz-Muñoz is a co-author.
Vidot DC, Deo S, Daunert S, de la Cruz-Munoz N, Messiah SE. A Preliminary Study on the Influence of Cannabis and Opioid Use on Weight Loss and Mental Health Biomarkers Post-Weight Loss Surgery. Obesity Surgery. 2020;30(11):4331-4338.
