Can I take Excedrin a week before surgery?

Question

The doctor said no Advil or ibprofin but I have a horrible headache, can I take excedrin?

Richard H. Tholen, MD, FACS · Answer

NO!Excedrin contains aspirin, and even the amount of a baby aspirin can cause bleeding if taken within 2 weeks before surgery.Some surgeons may say 1 week is OK, and some surgeons say ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, Nuprin) or Aleve or OK. But most of us will ask you to avoid all of those for 2 weeks before elective surgery.If they really believe it's OK, I think it's sort of like saying, "Well, a little bleeding might be OK and might not lead to a re-operation!"Why chance it? Tylenol will not cause bleeding, though it may not work as well as these other medications for a headache. But acetaminophen (Tylenol) doesn't cause bleeding. Best wishes! Dr. Tholen

Deborah Sillins, MD · Answer

no it is an aspirin. aspirin will make you bleed after surgery. you should stop taking any aspirin products ibuprofen's 2 weeks before surgery.

Gregory T. Lynam, MD · Answer

Aspirin will increase bleeding and most surgeons stop aspirin 2 weeks before surgery. Tylenol is OK. Good Luck!

Ted Eisenberg, DO, FACOS, FAACS · Answer

No, you should not take excedrin. It can also prolong bleeding during surgery like Advil. I advise my patients that they can take acetaminophen for a headache prior to surgery. It's always a good idea to check with your surgeon with questions like this before your surgery as every surgeon has their own protocol as well.Dr. Ted Eisenberg, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and Author

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Excedrin falls into the same category as Advil and ibuprofen.  Phone your PS's office and ask what is recommended for a horrible headache.Kenneth Hughes, MD, Board Certified Plastic SurgeonLos Angeles, CA

Can I take Excedrin a week before surgery?

Answers (7)

Answer: No Excedrin before surgery

Answer: No Excedrin before surgery

Answer: Can I take Excedrin a week before surgery?

Answer: Can I take Excedrin a week before surgery?

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Can I take Excedrin a week before surgery?

Answers (7)

Answer: No Excedrin before surgery

Answer: No Excedrin before surgery

Answer: Can I take Excedrin a week before surgery?

Answer: Can I take Excedrin a week before surgery?

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Everything you need to know about Breast Implants

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.