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Berberine (Goldenseal)Bleeding DisordersDanshenDong QuaiEchinaceaEphedraFeverfewGarlicGingerGinkgoGinsengHigh Blood PressureKavaLicoriceSennaSt. John's WortSurgeryValerian

What not to take before surgery

JR

OK, you’re scheduled for surgery, and you take herbals.

Does your surgeon know what you take?

Be smart. If you use any of the herbals on this list, tell your surgeon.

  • Danshen: May cause bleeding
  • Dong quai: May cause bleeding
  • Echinacea: May interfere with immune functioning, may alter effectiveness of immunosuppressant drugs given after transplant surgery
  • Ephedra: May cause abnormal heartbeat, may cause extreme high blood pressure and coma if combined with certain antidepressants and anesthesia
  • Feverfew: May cause bleeding
  • Garlic: May cause bleeding, may interfere with normal blood clotting
  • Ginger: May cause bleeding
  • Ginkgo: May cause bleeding
  • Ginseng: May cause bleeding, may cause rapid heartbeat, may cause high blood pressure
  • Goldenseal: May cause or worsen high blood pressure
  • Kava: May enhance sedative effects of anesthesia
  • Licorice (not including licorice candy): May increase blood pressure
  • Senna: May cause electrolyte imbalance
  • St. John’s wort: May increase or decrease the effects of some drugs used during and after surgery
  • Valerian: May interfere with the effects of anesthesia

Thanks to MayoClinic.com.

9/10/06 11:26 JR

Hi, I’m JR

John Russo, Jr., PharmD, is president of The MedCom Resource, Inc. Previously, he was senior vice president of medical communications at www.Vicus.com, a complementary and alternative medicine website.

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