Answered By: Addiction Specialist

Answer: Certain drugs called NSAIDs interfere with the function of a component of your blood called "platelets" which are involved in the process of forming clots. These drugs can reduce your blood's ability to clot and thus should not be taken before any type of surgery. Drugs in this class include aspirin, Advil (ibuprofen), and Naprosyn (naproxen). Vicodin contains Tylenol (acetaminophen) which is often assumed to be in this class but it is not. Acetaminophen does not affect your platelets in the same way that NSAIDs do; however, acetaminophen taken in large quantities can damage your liver. Your liver makes a substance called thrombopoietin which causes your bone marrow to make platelets, so if you damage your liver with acetaminophen you could reduce the number of platelets in your blood and have problems forming clots. You should always follow your doctor's advice, especially in regards to preparation for surgery. If you are concerned about stopping the vicodin you may want to discuss the issue with your doctor to see if there are alternatives for your pain control in the week before surgery.

Answered on: December 10, 2008