Medication

A thorough review of all medications, over-the-counter drugs, supplements, and herbal remedies is important so that the patient can be advised which medicines to continue and what they should stop taking before an operation.

Abrupt withdrawal of some medications, especially cardiovascular and central nervous drugs, can lead to postoperative issues.

Many other drugs need to be appropriately stopped, including herbal medications that can increase bleeding, diuretics in a dehydrated patient, and reduction in opiates to prevent failed spinal fusions.

Medication Checklist