Preparing for Your Procedure
Everything you need to know before your appointment with Dr. Maher. Follow these instructions carefully. Good preparation leads to a safer, smoother procedure and the best possible results.
Start 7 Days Before
Medication review and adjustments
Driver Required
No exceptions. No rideshare alone.
Questions?
Call (281) 945-5190 anytime
Medications
Contact our office if you take any of the following. Do not stop any medication without speaking to Dr. Maher's team first.
Blood Thinners
These medications may need to be paused before your procedure. The timing depends on which medication you take. Our office will give you specific instructions on when to stop and when to restart. Low-dose aspirin (81 mg) can usually be continued unless Dr. Maher instructs otherwise.
Diabetes Medications
If you take insulin, oral diabetes medications, or injectable diabetes drugs, your dosage may need to be adjusted for the day before and day of your procedure. Contact our office for specific guidance based on your medication type.
GLP-1 Medications
You must pause this medication before your procedure. GLP-1 drugs slow stomach emptying and can increase the risk of aspiration during sedation. Contact our office at least 7 days before your procedure for instructions on when to stop.
Iron and Fiber Supplements
Stop all iron supplements and fiber products 7 days before your procedure. Iron darkens the stool and can interfere with visualization during your exam.
Other Supplements
Bring a complete list of everything you take, including over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Some can increase bleeding risk and may need to be paused.
Not sure about your medication?
Call our office. We will tell you exactly what to stop, what to adjust, and what to continue.
(281) 945-5190Diet and Fasting
Your dietary preparation depends on which procedure you are having. Follow the guide that applies to you.
Colonoscopy
Follow a specific bowel prep protocol including a low-residue diet, a clear liquid day, and a prescribed prep solution. Timing is critical.
View Full Colonoscopy Prep →Upper Endoscopy (EGD)
Eat normally during the day. Have a light dinner and stop eating solid food after midnight the night before your procedure.
View Full EGD Prep →Both Procedures Same Day
Follow the colonoscopy preparation instructions. The bowel prep covers the fasting requirements for both procedures.
View Colonoscopy Prep →Universal rule for all sedation procedures: Stop all food and liquids 2 to 4 hours before your scheduled arrival time unless our office instructs you otherwise. An empty stomach is essential for safe sedation.
What to Bring
Have everything ready before you leave home to make check-in as smooth as possible.
Required Items
- Photo ID (driver's license, state ID, or passport)
- Insurance card (front and back)
- Complete medication list (including dosages and supplements)
- Signed consent forms (or complete via our patient portal in advance)
- Your designated driver (required for all sedation procedures — no exceptions)
Recommended Items
- Comfortable, loose-fitting clothing
- A light jacket or sweater (procedure rooms are kept cool)
- Reading material or your phone (for the waiting area)
- Something for your driver to do (1.5–2 hours total)
Leave at Home
- Jewelry, watches, and valuables
- Contact lenses (wear glasses if possible)
- Large amounts of cash
What to Avoid on Procedure Day
Three things that directly affect your safety and the quality of your procedure.
No Food or Liquids
Stop all eating and drinking 2 to 4 hours before your arrival time. You may take approved morning medications with a small sip of water at least 2 hours before your appointment — but only medications cleared by our office.
No Smoking or Tobacco
Do not smoke, vape, or use any tobacco products on the day of your procedure. Nicotine affects sedation, recovery, and healing. This includes e-cigarettes and nicotine patches.
No Driving
You will receive sedation and cannot drive for 24 hours afterward. Do not plan to drive yourself home. Do not use a rideshare service alone. A responsible adult must be present to take you home.
When You Arrive
What happens from check-in through the start of your procedure.
Check In Early
Arrive 30 to 60 minutes before your scheduled procedure time. Our front desk team will verify your identity, insurance, and paperwork. If you have not completed your consent forms, you will do so at this time.
Pre-Procedure Preparation
A member of our clinical team will review your medical history and medications, take your vital signs, and place your IV line for sedation. This is your last opportunity to ask Dr. Maher's team any questions before your procedure begins.
Your Procedure
Dr. Maher personally performs every procedure. You will be sedated and comfortable. Most GI procedures take between 15 and 45 minutes depending on the type and findings.
After Your Procedure: Getting Home Safely
What to expect in recovery and what to arrange before your appointment.
You will rest in our recovery area for 20 to 30 minutes as sedation wears off. Dr. Maher will speak with you before you leave to discuss what he found. You may eat and drink normally after your procedure unless Dr. Maher gives you different instructions — start with something light.
Your driver must be present. We will not discharge you without a responsible adult to take you home. They must be reachable and able to return within 15 minutes of our call. Total visit time is typically 1.5 to 2 hours.
For 24 hours after sedation, do not:
When to Contact Our Office After Your Procedure
Call us immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms after your procedure:
(281) 945-5190Any symptom that feels abnormal or concerning should also prompt a call. If our office is closed and symptoms are severe, go to the nearest emergency room or call 911.
Common Pre-Operative Questions
Answers about fasting mistakes, medications, drivers, illness, and pre-procedure nerves.
Call Our Office
What if I accidentally ate or drank something I should not have?
Can I take my blood pressure medication the morning of my procedure?
Can I brush my teeth the morning of my procedure?
What if my driver cannot stay at the facility?
What if I am sick on the day of my procedure?
I am nervous about the procedure. Is that normal?
Have Questions About Your Upcoming Procedure?
Do not guess. If anything about these instructions is unclear, or if your situation does not fit the standard guidelines, call our office. We would rather answer your question now than reschedule your procedure later.
Mon–Thu 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM | Fri 8:30 AM – 1:00 PM
19255 Park Row #104, Houston, TX 77084