Medications to Avoid Prior to Surgery

Before undergoing oral surgery, it is important to understand any drug interactions or contraindications to treatment. Dr. Chris L. Tye, MD, DDS at Texas Oral Surgery Specialists in Colleyville, TX has compiled a list of common medications and supplements that should be avoided.

Common Herbal Supplements to Avoid

Many patients are under the impression that herbal supplements and vitamins do not have the same effect on your body as medications. However, many supplements on the market today have a blood-thinning property. Therefore, it is important to avoid certain ones that may interfere with treatment. These herbal supplements should be avoided for approximately two weeks prior to surgery:

• Garlic
• Ginseng
• Ginkgo biloba
• Fish oil
• Vitamin E

Common Drugs to Avoid

In addition to herbal supplements, there are several over-the-counter and prescription medications that should be avoided as well. It is important to note that you should not discontinue a prescribed medication without speaking with your medical doctor. Dr. Tye will be in communication with your primary care physician if you take a medication that could interfere with surgery. Together, they will determine the best course of action. Always follow the advice of your health care providers.

NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) can lead to excessive post-operative bleeding. For this reason, most doctors recommend that you avoid them for approximately one week before your procedure. Examples include:

• Aspirin
• Ibuprofen
• Naproxen
• Celebrex
• Zorvolex
• Indocin

Tylenol is the preferred Over-the-counter pain medication prior to surgery.

Blood Thinners: What You Should Know

If you currently take a blood thinner, such as Coumadin, Eliquis, Xarelto, Brilanta, and Plavix to name a few, inform your Oral Surgeon at least one week prior to your procedure if you are on blood thinners. Your Oral Surgeon will consult with your general practitioner or cardiologist to determine what should be done. You may or may not be taken off of your blood thinners for a two to 7 days prior to your surgery.  If there is no bleeding the day after your procedure, it is often safe and advised to resume your medication. However, because each patient is different, you will need to obtain recommendations from your Oral Surgeon and Physician for your specific situation.

Bisphosphonates: What You Should Know

If you are currently taking oral bisphosphonates for osteoporosis, consult with your Oral Surgeon prior to your surgery to receive his recommendation. These medications include Actonel, Aclasta, Zometa, Boniva, Fosamax, Skelid, Reclast, Didronel, and more. If you have been on these medications for more than two years, it may be advised to take a “drug holiday” by not taking the medication two to three months prior to your procedure, and resuming one month afterwards. Consult your Oral Surgeon and Physician for specific recommendations.

Semi-Glutides GLP-1 Antagonist Medications for Weight Loss or Diabetes

These medications include Ozempic^®, Wegovy^®, and Rybelsus^®.Semi-Glutides cause slow emptying of your stomach. If your procedure involves IV Sedation or General Anesthesia, it is advised by the American Society of Anesthesiology to hold these medications prior to surgery. When taking medication for weight loss only, and not for diabetes, your oral surgeon may request that you hold your medication for one week if you take it weekly, and hold it on the day of the procedure if you take it daily. If prescribed Semi-Glutides for diabetes, it is advised to consult with your physician regarding a proper protocol

An Important Reminder

As mentioned above, do not discontinue any prescription medications without your doctor’s knowledge. The information presented here is designed as a guide for your initial consultation with Dr. Tye. When discussing your medical history, be sure to mention any and all medications you are currently taking. Being informed, knowledgeable, and prepared will help you have a comfortable experience.

Contact Your Grapevine Oral Surgeon Today

If you have further questions about preparing for your surgery, contact a team member at our Colleyville, TX practice today. We also serve the outlying areas of Keller, Southlake, Euless, and Bedford. You can reach us online, or by calling Texas Oral Surgery Specialists Phone Number (817) 552-3223.

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