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Supplements Before Surgery

Supplements before surgery and procedures: NIH and FDA say some supplements can affect anesthesia, bleeding, heart rate and blood pressure; tell your surgeon and anesthesia team; do not stop prescribed medicines on your own.

Content last updated . This page has not been medically reviewed.

Why it matters

Some dietary supplements may cause problems during surgery because they may: [1]
  • affect your response to anesthetics or other medicines given before, during or after the operation,
  • increase your risk of bleeding,
  • cause serious changes in heart rate or blood pressure.

FDA adds that your health professional may ask you to stop supplements two or three weeks before a procedure. [2]

Examples

Garlic supplements may increase bleeding risk, and NIH says this is especially important for surgery. [3] Ginkgo may increase bleeding in people on anticoagulants. [4] See Interactions by drug class.

What to do

  1. Tell your surgeon, anesthesia provider and pharmacist about every supplement, herb, tea, oil and "natural" product as far in advance as possible. [1]
  2. Some providers ask patients to stop herbal supplements several weeks before elective (planned) surgery; ask what yours wants. [1]
  3. Do not stop a prescribed medicine on your own.
  4. In emergency surgery you cannot stop ahead of time; you or a loved one should still tell the surgical and anesthesia team what you take. [1]
  5. Bring the bottles or a written list. [5]

Related

Talking with a health professional

Frequently asked questions

How long before surgery should I stop supplements?

Ask your surgical team. FDA says providers may ask you to stop two or three weeks before. [2]

References

  1. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NIH). Know the Science: Some Medication-Supplement Interactions Can Be Serious. Read 2026-10-22.
  2. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Mixing Medications and Dietary Supplements Can Endanger Your Health. Read 2026-10-22.
  3. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NIH). Garlic: Usefulness and Safety. Read 2026-10-22.
  4. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NIH). Ginkgo: Usefulness and Safety. Read 2026-10-22.
  5. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NIH). Know the Science: Talk With Your Health Care Providers. Read 2026-10-22.
Education, not medical advice. This page is for general information. It does not diagnose or treat any condition and is not a substitute for care from a qualified health professional. Natural does not automatically mean safe. Ask a clinician or pharmacist before changing your care, especially if you take medication, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have a health condition.