Fasting blood test query

[Bluey-1]

I’ve been asked to book a fasting blood test next week. It’s at 10.00am. I take it this is a 12 hour fast. Do I take meds first thing as usual with water? Currently take enteric coated pred with a spoonful of yoghurt, then edoxaban and Bisoprolal after breakfast. Can’t get an answer from the receptionist who rang to arrange the test. She said to ask the pharmacist who said it would be ok to take the pred with water. I want to know if I should take meds before or after the test but struggle to get through to a doctor / nurse for the answer. I know the surgery have had several changes of admin staff but it’s frustrating not to get clarity when they’ve requested the test!

[SheffieldJane]

Is this a diabetes test? In that case take your Pred. If it is for your Arenaline function, then take it afterwards. This is based on my experience and memory.

[Bluey-1 in reply to SheffieldJane]

I don’t know. Definitely not adrenaline I would think. May stop at the surgery on my way back from shopping and try to get clarity. Thanks Jane

[Bluey-1 in reply to SheffieldJane]

Take it all back Jane. The surgery are on my case, just new admin still in training. Had a letter from Notts fracture liaison service re my bone health review today. The bloods have been requested from them as a follow on from the Zoledronic infusion I had in March 22, prior to GCA diagnosis.

[Bluey-1 in reply to SheffieldJane]

Text from nurse at surgery to delay taking meds until after test.

[PMRpro Ambassador]

It is usually fine to take tablets WITH WATER. If cortisol is to be measured, don't take pred in the 24 hours before. It really is a good idea to NOT take anticoagulant medication until the blood test is done! I now always delay mine until the blood is taken and it stops having to sit pressing on my arm for 15 mins until it stops bleeding (that is the edoxaban).

But since they have finally commented, take your pills and a bottle of water with you and take them as soon as the needle is out of your arm!

[Bluey-1 in reply to PMRpro]

Good tip re the anticoagulants. I’ll remember that for future tests. I’ll take the meds as soon as it’s done.

[Poshcards]

i thought 'fasting' blood tests were a thing of the past, they are at my surgery now x

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to Poshcards]

Here there is a sign saying that blood tests should always be regarded as "fasting". It is important for some things.

[Poshcards in reply to PMRpro]

That's what I thought too, but blood nurses now say not necessary x