Which of the following should be avoided prior to a colonoscopy?

Taking NSAIDs before a colonoscopy should generally be avoided because they can increase the risk of bleeding, especially if any biopsies or polypectomies are performed during the procedure. NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen and naproxen, have antiplatelet effects that can inhibit platelet function and affect blood clotting. For patients who are scheduled for a colonoscopy, it's crucial to minimize any potential complications such as excessive bleeding, which is why discontinuing NSAIDs in the days leading up to the procedure is a common recommendation.

Other medications, such as antibiotics, proton pump inhibitors, and vitamins, do not carry the same bleeding risk and may not require cessation before undergoing a colonoscopy. Instead, the focus is primarily on ensuring that the gastrointestinal tract is properly prepared and that the risk of complications during and after the procedure is minimized.