A Clearance for Pre-Op: Lovenox, Xeralta, Norco, and Other Drugs We Love to Hate

I visited my primary care physician today for pre-op clearance. I am now a big proponent for streamlining the health care system so that if one has had several doctors over the past ten years or twenty years, his health history would in theory go with him to the new one. The shift from paper filing to computer/virtual filing is long overdue. I had to complete a new profile and health history because I’m not on record with my new primary care physician. Much of this is my fault for being to stubborn to visit my primary care physician for regular check-ups at least once a year. However, no better time then the present.

I had a blood draw today in order to test my blood count in preparation for the surgery. Blood-thinners actually concern me. Although I am not diabetic nor have had previous heart conditions (all to my current knowledge), the thought of bleeding easily is one I’d rather not have. However, blood-thinners seek to reduce the chase of clotting in my casted-leg. Any thoughts about lovenox and/or xeralta, the two blood-thinning medications I may have to face? And as it relates to pain killers, can Norco become addictive?