Arthrotec 6 years out.

I have been suffering with arthritis since a teen and I haven't taken any anti inflamitories since my wls.  I have finally reached a point that I can't take it anymore.  Tramidol doesn't cut it anymore so today my doctor prescribed me Arthrotec 50mgs once a day to start out and see if it works.  She said it has helped a few of her rny patients without a problem.  So I am giving a try at the lowest dose.   Has anyone else tried this?   I am starting it tomorrow.  I pray it works.  I would love to hear others experience on it. 

Yes, I took it before my RNY, but not since. i need to find out if it can be crushed, because im afraid to swallow it whole.
It was like a miracle drug for my arthritis.
Hope it work's as well for you.

I am so glad you posted.  I had an appointment with my doctor yesterday so it was good timing.  I have fibro and I have also had a lot of inflammation and swelling in my hands and feet lately.  The pain has been really bad.  I asked my Dr. about Arthrotec and he had some samples.  I've only taken 2 doses so far, but feel better already.  It has really helped with the stiffness.  I'm hoping the stomach protectant in the medication will keep my tummy happy.  Thanks again for your post.  I hope it works well for you too!  Best of luck.
Marsha 

I have only taken 1 pill a day(for 3 days now) and I have noticed it helps a bit. So far no stomach problems.  If all continues to go well, I will be able to increase dosage if need be.  *fingers crossed*  I have been living in pain for a long time now with swelling and unable to take an anti-inflamitory.....maybe that will all change

You are aware that this is an NSAID, right?

Yes I am aware, but when you are living with arthritis, swelling and joint pain and it affects your quality of life?  I have to do something.  I am being closely watched by my doctor and no stomach pain or irritation so far. 

Oh, I agree---you simply have to weigh the benefits against the risks. I've had severe arthritis since I was 20, and I'm 52 now. I just wanted to be sure you did realize it was an NSAID.

Arthrotec is designed to relieve the symptoms of arthritis in people who are also prone to ulcers. It contains diclofenac, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) for control of the inflammation, swelling, stiffness, and joint pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. However, since NSAIDs can cause stomach ulcers in susceptible people, Arthrotec also contains misoprostol, a synthetic prostaglandin that serves to reduce the production of stomach acid, protect the stomach lining, and thus prevent ulcers.

Although Arthrotec is designed to protect against stomach ulcers and bleeding, they remain a possibility. Contact your doctor immediately if you notice signs of bleeding such as black tarry stools. Also call the doctor if you develop severe diarrhea, cramping, or nausea, or if milder symptoms persist for more than 7 days.

Hi,
I've been taking Arthrotec for about for about 4 months now, for my arthritic knees.  It got to the point where I had so much pain I was not really moving or doing much of anything other than what I absolutely had to do to get through my work day.  As a result I have slowly begain to gain weight.  I was so afraid to take any kind of NSAID but Arthrotec has not caused me any problems so far.  I take 50mg once per day, sometimes twice if I have to do a lot of stuff.

Just yesterday  the orthopedic specialist I went to see started me on "Orthovisc" injections in both knees and today my knees feel WONDERFUL.  It is like a miracle.  He also gave me a "chaser" (as he called it) of cortisone at the same time so that may be what's making my knees feel so much better but whatever it is, I don't care, it worked.  I have not taken an Arthrotec today and haven't missed it.  I sure hope this lasts because I'll feel a lot better about not taking the risk of the NSAID.  I get three more shots of Orthovisc over the next 3 weeks and should hopefully get about 6 months of pain relief.  Then, when the pain gets bad again I can have another series of 4 shots over 4 weeks but that's it.  After that we move on to whatever the next step witll be.

Karen