Preparing for your procedure

Prep at a glance

• No food or drink, including water, about 6 hours before
• Tell us about every medication and supplement
• Flag any blood thinners well ahead of time

Fasting before your exam

For the best and safest examination, your stomach must be completely empty. You should have nothing to eat or drink, including water, for approximately 6 hours before the examination. Your exact fasting start time depends on when your procedure is scheduled, and your physician will confirm it with you.

Tell us about your medications

Let your doctor know about all of your current medications, both prescription and over the counter, along with any vitamins and herbal supplements. Be sure to mention any medication allergies or a latex allergy.

Blood thinners

It is essential to tell your physician if you take a blood thinner, including Aspirin, Coumadin, Plavix, Aggrenox, Ticlid, or Persantine. These medications sometimes need to be adjusted before a procedure, and that decision is made with your physician in advance.

Your procedure-specific instructions

Different procedures have different prep. Download the instructions for your specific procedure on our prep forms page, and review them a few days ahead so you have time to ask questions. You can learn more about a colonoscopy or an upper endoscopy on their pages.

Questions about your prep? Call us at (330) 869-0954 and our team will help.