Post Opers I Have A Question. Concerned!

[Lisa's Hope 421]

I've been concerned about something and wondering if anyone can help. My surgery is scheduled for 5/21 and one thing that is bothering me is I've heard that usually patients are taken off their BP meds after surgery. I am on a beta blocker that CANNOT be stopped abruptly. If that happened, I could have a heart attack!! I've been on these meds for over 20 years for PVC's and BP. I'm also on another BP med but not too worried about this one being discontinued due to it is a very low dose anyway. I'm so scared about this!! The beta blocker is called atenolol and does not have a diuretic in it. So, my question is do you still get your regular' medication after surgery???? I'm also on synthroid daily which I can't miss either. How do they give you meds if you can't swallow anything?? Please help! Thanks!!

[BlackBerryJuice 349]

If you can't take it by mouth, there are various beta blockers that can be given IV, e.g. labetalol.

Edit: apparently, there's IV atenolol, also.

[Lissa 2,631]

IIRC, from a stint as a pharmacy tech during college, atenolol isn't a big pill. You should be able to swallow it. If not, ask your pharmacist if you can crush it and take it in applesauce or some other pureed food. I took coumadin, singulair and albuterol with no problems after surgery.

[Lisa's Hope 421]

Thanks Blackberry. My pre op testing is Monday so I will be sure to ask. I guess I'm just concerned because I will be out of it and I just can't miss those meds.. I worry too much!

[Lisa's Hope 421]

Thanks Lissa. Did they give you those in while you were in the hospital. I'm just wondering if I should take my own meds with me.. LOL

[lsereno 2,525]

I swallowed my pills the next day without a problem. I was on atenol, cozaar, and a cholesterol med. The only thing they stopped before surgery was the Water pill I used to take for blood pressure. I stopped that before surgery and never took it again.

After about three months, Dr. took me off all blood pressure and cholesterol meds, but I have had to restart the cozaar.

Lynda

[Lisa's Hope 421]

Thanks girls! Maybe I can calm down and stop being so whiney...lol Ugghhh.. I will be glad to be on the other side!! Now I'm trying to figure out what to buy for the 14 day preop diet I start on 5/7. Any ideas anyone? I love this site! Everyone here is soooo nice and helpful!

[mmorral 19]

Thanks girls! Maybe I can calm down and stop being so whiney...lol Ugghhh.. I will be glad to be on the other side!! Now I'm trying to figure out what to buy for the 14 day preop diet I start on 5/7. Any ideas anyone? I love this site! Everyone here is soooo nice and helpful!

Lisa,

It is alright to be worried. I sure was. For the pre op diet depends on your doctor. I bought pure Protein shakes, injury powders, Tomato Soup, and the creamy chicken Soup. I liked the Campbell soup at hand ones. For the pre diet I would suggest gum to chew if your mouth needs to chew. I hope this helps a little