Why should patients discontinue certain medications before surgery?

Discontinuing certain medications before surgery is essential primarily to reduce the risk of adverse reactions and complications during anesthesia. Some medications can interact negatively with anesthetic agents, leading to increased cardiac or respiratory complications, prolonged recovery times, or ineffective analgesia. For instance, anticoagulants can increase bleeding risk, while certain herbal supplements may affect blood pressure or lead to unpredictable responses to anesthesia.

Ensuring patient safety is a primary concern during any surgical procedure, and understanding the implications of medication use is a crucial part of preoperative assessments. By identifying and managing these risks beforehand, healthcare providers can create a safer surgical environment for patients.