Aman Singh, MD Gastroenterologist

Preparation Procedures for Upper Endoscopy

Seven Days Before the Procedure

Medication Restrictions

1. Diabetics taking insulin will need dose adjustment the day before the exam. Please ask for advice from the physician that prescribes your insulin. For diabetics only taking diabetic pills simply do not take
   the pills the day of the procedure (see below).
2. Blood thinners including Coumadin, aspirin, and Plavix type medicines. These can increase the risk of bleeding during endoscopic procedures to a varying degree. We recommend stopping Coumadin three days before the procedure, if possible. Please ask for advice from the physician that prescribes your Coumadin. If aspirin is used for preventative reasons and not for active cardiac or stroke prevention then it should be stopped for 7 days before the procedure. Discuss the use of other blood thinners, such as Plavix, with the prescribing physician.

The Morning of the Procedure

1. Nothing to eat after midnight the day of your procedure. You should take any necessary medications you normally use on the morning of the procedure with sips of water. Take nothing by mouth, including water, four hours before your scheduled arrival time.
2. Take your regular medications (except diabetic pills) on the morning of the procedure with sips of water.
3. Arrive at your scheduled appointment time.
4. Bring a list of your medications, insurance cards and photo ID. 
5. After the procedure you must have a responsible adult drive you home. It is best if your driver waits for you at the endoscopy center. You may be dropped off and picked up by a responsible person approximately one and a half hours later. Taking a cab home is not an option. 
6. You may not drive or work until the next day.

Questions or Problems

1. Daytime phone number is (314) 997-0554.
2. After hours number is (314) 388-6578. 
3. Internet website address is www.Gidoctor.net

Important Information About Sedation

Sedatives used for endoscopy include Propofol. These medications provide amnesia and pain relief. You are breathing on your own. It is not considered general anesthesia. The only reasons not to receive Propofol are pregnancy, egg allergy and soy allergy.