Be sure to let the surgeon, the anesthesiologist and your primary physician know about the vitamins and medications you're taking. Patients should be especially aware of potential risks associated with these medications:
Don't overlook any medications or supplements, including antibiotics prescribed by a dentist or even herbal teas. When you go for your preoperative evaluation, bring a list of all medications, or put them all in a bag and bring them along. If you realize you've forgotten something, call your doctor right away. Waiting to share this information until the day before or the day of surgery may delay the procedure or cause complications during your surgery or recovery.
It's also important to let your doctors know if you've ever had a bad reaction to certain medications. This may be a true drug allergy such as a rash or hives, or it may simply be that a certain drug made you feel nauseated or uncomfortable. Often, your doctors will be able to choose alternative medications that avoid allergic reactions or other serious side effects.
Last updated September 06, 2011
