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My Medicines

It is important that you bring all your current medications in their original containers, as well as a printout of your medications from your GP - or pharmacist/chemist - that includes the dosage and how often you take them. This will help your doctors ensure the correct medications are continued for you. Medications include tablets/pills, syrups, ointments, inhalers, injections, herbal remedies, homeopathic and complementary medicines, vitamins and other supplements.

Please check with your surgeon and anaesthetist whether your regular medications and natural remedies should be taken as normal, and be sure to follow their instructions regarding the use of any medications.

Please refer also to our frequently asked questions section below.

Medication FAQs

Can I leave my MedicAlert bracelet or pendant on?

Answer:

Yes, it is very important that you leave your MedicAlert bracelet, pendant or other MedicAlert item on at all times. It is also important that you indicate that you have a MedicAlert or any other allergey or sensitivty on your Health Questionnaire Form and verbally on admission to your medical specialists and nurses.

Do I bring my usual medications in with me?

Answer:

You will have discussed with your specialist any regular medications you are taking.

It is important that you bring all your usual medications and other remedies in the original containers to hospital with you - as well as a printout of your medications from your GP or pharmacy/chemist that includes the dosage and how often you take them.

A detailed list from your general practitioner will help your doctors ensure the correct medications are continued for you. Medicines include tablets/pills, syrups, ointments, inhalers, injections, herbal remedies, homeopathic and complementary medicines, vitamins and other supplements.

Should I tell my specialist if I take natural supplements, herbal, homeopathic or other medicines not prescribed by my GP or specialist?

Answer:

Yes, always tell your anaesthetist, specialist and/or registered nurse about any vitamins, herbal remedies, homeopathic medications or supplements that you are taking, as these may interfere with conventional drugs and anaesthetics. As a rule of thumb, do not take non-prescribed medications or substances for a week before surgery unless your anaesthetist or specialist has specifically stated that you can.

Please refer to Your Anaesthetic leaflet, produced by New Zealand Society of Anaesthetists - a copy of which is included in your Admission Pack. Alternatively, you can view it here)

Should I keep taking my usual medications?

Answer:

If you are being admitted on the day of your surgery, yes, continue to take your regular medications as prescribed - unless advised otherwise by your specialist. Patients on anticoagulants need to take special care. Anticoagulants (blood thinning medications) e.g. Warfarin, Plavix, Persantin, should not be taken prior to surgery without consulting your specialist. Aspirin or Disprin may be discontinued in the week prior to surgery or your specialist may request you continue to take it. Please check with your specialist. Please check with your specialist about whether you should continue with any medications, including aspirin or dispirin.