Free tool · No sign-up · Reviewed by an anesthesiologist
Take or hold? Medication checker
Tick the regular medicines you take and get a clear take / hold / ask-your-team list you can print and bring to your pre-op visit.
Want everything in one place?
Build your full surgery plan — this medication list plus your exact fasting times, a dated countdown, what to bring, the questions to ask and your recovery dates — on one printable page.
Build my surgery plan →Frequently asked questions
Which medications do I stop before surgery?
The big ones patients get wrong: SGLT2 diabetes pills (Jardiance/Farxiga/Invokana) stop 3–4 days before; blood thinners are held on a drug-specific schedule; water pills and ADHD stimulants are usually held the morning of. Many others — beta-blockers, thyroid, antidepressants, seizure meds, inhalers, steroids — should NOT be stopped. Always follow your pre-op team's exact list.
Can I take my medications the morning of surgery with water?
Many essential medicines are taken as usual with a small sip of water — this does not break your fast. But some must be held. Use the checker above for a starting point, then confirm your personal list with your pre-op team.
Should I stop my antidepressant before surgery?
Usually no. SSRIs, SNRIs and tricyclics are typically continued — stopping risks relapse and withdrawal. MAOIs are the exception and need special anesthesia handling, so tell your team but don't stop on your own.
Do I hold my blood pressure pills before surgery?
It depends on the type. Beta-blockers, calcium-channel blockers and clonidine are usually continued; ACE inhibitors/ARBs and water pills are often held the morning of surgery. Never stop a beta-blocker or clonidine suddenly. Follow your team's instruction.