Which medication is typically considered safest to take for pain in the week before surgical procedures?

Acetaminophen is widely regarded as the safest option to take for pain relief in the week leading up to surgical procedures. Unlike nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as naproxen and ketorolac, and antiplatelet agents like aspirin, acetaminophen does not have significant effects on platelet function. This is critical because maintaining normal platelet function is essential to minimize the risk of excessive bleeding during and after surgery.

Acetaminophen is non-opioid, does not irritate the gastrointestinal lining, and does not interfere with blood clotting, which makes it a preferred choice for managing pain in the context of surgical preparation. It provides an effective analgesic effect without the associated risks of bleeding complications that are typically heightened with NSAIDs and aspirin, making it particularly suitable for patients who are about to undergo surgical intervention.