Are there any specific medications that I need to stop taking before the surgery?
August 7, 2023 | 30,00 EUR | answered by Sebastian Köhler
Dear doctor,
My name is Artur Hentschel and I am about to undergo surgery that will require general anesthesia. However, I am concerned about whether there are certain medications that I need to discontinue before the operation.
Background information: I suffer from high blood pressure and take daily medication for it. Additionally, I have experienced intolerance to certain painkillers such as ibuprofen and aspirin in the past. I also regularly take an antidepressant.
Current situation: Since I have had negative experiences with medications in the past, I want to ensure that I do not take any risks before the operation and that I tolerate the anesthesia optimally. I am aware that some medications can affect the effectiveness of anesthesia and therefore need to be discontinued before surgery.
My concerns: I am worried that I may not be able to continue taking my current medications or that there may be complications during the operation if certain medications are not discontinued.
My question: Are there specific medications that I need to discontinue before the operation, especially considering my pre-existing conditions and the medications I am already taking? Are there possibly alternatives that I can take during the operation to minimize potential risks?
Thank you in advance for your support and guidance.
Sincerely,
Artur Hentschel
Dear Mr. Hentschel,
Thank you for your question regarding the necessary preparations before your upcoming surgery, where general anesthesia will be required. It is understandable that you are concerned about taking your medications and avoiding potential risks during the anesthesia. I am happy to provide you with detailed information and recommendations on this matter.
First and foremost, it is important to know that there are some medications that need to be discontinued before surgery as they can affect the effects of anesthesia. In your case, as you suffer from high blood pressure and take daily medication, it is especially important that you speak with your treating physician or anesthesiologist to ensure that your blood pressure medication can continue to be taken safely before the operation. In most cases, blood pressure medications do not need to be discontinued, as stable blood pressure during the operation is of great importance.
Regarding your intolerance to certain pain medications such as Ibuprofen and Aspirin, it is also important to inform your treating physician or anesthesiologist about this. There are alternative pain medications that can be used during the operation to control your pain without facing unwanted side effects or allergic reactions.
As for your antidepressant medication, it is generally advisable to continue taking it during the operation, as sudden discontinuation can lead to unwanted consequences. However, your anesthesiologist will check if the antidepressant may interact with other medications needed during the anesthesia.
It is important that you disclose all your medications, including over-the-counter medications, supplements, and herbal preparations, to your anesthesiologist before the operation so that he can provide individual recommendations. He may give you specific instructions on which medications you need to discontinue before the operation and which ones you can continue to take.
Overall, it is crucial that you discuss all your concerns and questions with your anesthesiologist so that he can best prepare you for the upcoming surgery. Your safety and well-being are always the top priority.
I hope that this information has been helpful to you. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to ask.
Sincerely,
Sebastian Köhler, Specialist in Anesthesiology
