To download and print a PDF version of this document, click here Surgery Preparations and Medications.pdf
Many medications can thin the blood and cause excessive bleeding during surgical procedures. It is very important that you cease any blood thinning medications 7-10 days prior to some surgical procedures. Common medications that thin the blood are Aspirin, Warfarin, Plavix (Clopidogrel) and anti-inflammatory pain medications. Nurofen and cold and flu tablets can also thin the blood.
Do not stop any of these medications without discussion with Dr Swindle as he will advise you of the exact timing to cease any medication.
You are usually able to continue taking your prescribed medications during the course of your surgical procedure however it may however be necessary to cease some medications. Be sure to bring all medications that you are currently taking with you to the hospital, including inhalers and sprays, in their labelled containers. Please advise Dr Swindle and your anaesthetist who will discuss with you which of these medicines you should take on the day of surgery as some may need to be avoided.
Below are links to lists of medications which you must stop taking prior to your Prostate Cancer treatment. Check with Dr Swindle to determine whether you can, or need to take other medications in their place.