Hello all, my question is about: how the mal-absorptive properties of my DS, affects my...

Hello all, my question is about: how the mal-absorptive properties of my DS, affects my meds. i had surgery about 10 years ago and i think i remember my doc telling me it was unknown at that time the affect the DS would have on medications. Since absorption can occur in the stomach, small and large intestine. And different things, are absorbed better in different places, their were too many variables to answer my question. Is their some sort of website that is approved by the bariatic surgeons that i can direct my docs too?  

I haven't seen anything documented but it sure would be great if there were. 

--gina

Ditto what Gina said.  I think it's a YMMV thing.  I know when I take a paracetamol it works the same as ever, but there are other things I take that I know I'm not absorbing well like calcium, so it's a case of trial and error I'm afraid.

Yup....totally what Gina said.  I know I'm not absorbing my thyroid meds we'll and that greatly affects my energy and well being.

Huneypie is right. Each of us is unique. I am 5 yrs out. My thyroid meds are still 125 mgs. each day. No change after my DS.

Hope you find your answers.

I take Levothyroxine and it has not been affected by it. I recently had my thyroid checked and it was perfect. I take the same dose I took before surgery. 

How about pain meds? Same thing or have people noticed they don't work as well? I don't just mean Tylenol or Ibuprofen, but Percocet and Vicodin too.

I don't notice any difference with pain meds.  The normal dose seems to do the trick fine even if I have to take paracetamol or codydramol with an NSAID.

What they said.  My DS totally changed my absorption of my anxiety and depression meds.  Had to double my dosage of both within the first month of surgery.  Trial and error is right.  I would suggest if there is anyway to get a "level" drawn to see where you are to do it.

Becca

you may find a difference with an oil based medicine, as we malabsorb 80% of fats.  And due to shorter transit time, the time released capsules may be in and out before all of their benefit is available.

you could check with your pharmacist whether it is advisable to break pills in two (to break through tough outer coating) to accelerate the absorption process.  Or you may break open capsules.

the best measure is if the medications continue to work for you or not.  Thyroid function is easy to monitor, and it seems most do not require any dosage change (including me)

one thing to consider, that many dosages are prescribed on the basis of your weight.  When you weigh less, your doctor may want to adjust your dosages, so keep the dialogue open