Gas-X, yes or no?????

Hi, I always thought since surgery that GasX is ok to take for intestional gas...I've taken it from time to time since surgery when I get a pretty bad gas bubble that needs to come out... Hubby has been going to the support group meetings at Middlesex in prep of his surgery and the subject came up at a meeting and some said that it is a No No because it can stretch the pouch. Anyone know the truth to this? Is it yes or no? I'm having a hard time today with intestional gas pains (the kind that double you over) and I may need to take something. If the Gas X is a no, what is safe to take for this? The Gas X has always done it's job and worked, but I don't want to stretch my pouch anymore than it already has. Thanks, paula

Dear Paula, I think I was at that meeting. Lois is the one who told me that gas-x can cause swelling. Liz, the dietition said she's not sure. I think she said something to the fact that it's been used with good results, but I can't remember for sure. Anyway, I had the lap band , not the bypass, big difference. Also, I was only 1 1/2 weeks postop when she told me that it might do more harm than good. Dr. Aranow is the only one that I would talk to personally about this. I'm not even going to relay it thru the office staff, as I'm not sure everything gets interpreted exactly from me to him and vice-versa. I've always been a firm believer in gas-x (before surgery). I want to keep using it, so when I see Dr. A in July, I plan to ask him. Feel better, Esther R. Wolcott

Paula - According to my surgeon and my primary physician, any gas reliever containing "Simethicone" should be safe for us. That is the active ingredient in Gas-X, so I think you should be fine taking it. If unsure, check with your physician. Good luck!! Carla

I was told by my surgeon to take it for gas as needed. And I do need it quite often! Check with your surgeon first tho as everyone is different! hugs Krista 327/191/150

Hi Paula, I have been told (from Aranow's office) that Gas X is okay to use. I was never told that using Gas X could stretch your pouch, only that air buildup in your pouch could. I use it regularly as well as Phazyme and have had no problems. I've also been told form the office that the products with Simethicone are safe for us. Debbi