Med Question

My surgery is in January and I have a big concern.  I gained the bulk of my weight after I went on Gabapentin, Cymbalta, and Amitriptyline.  Does anyone have experience with these meds and bypass surgery?  I am so worried that I go through this surgery and I still will not lose because I have to stay on these meds.    

Hello,

Congratulations on making the decision to begin this weight loss and healthier lifestyle journey!

I have to ask... What are you taking these meds for?

Will you still require them after your surgery?

I have been on Lyrica in the past and I did not tolerate the side affects.

I have been on NSAIDS (nonsteroidal anti inflammatories) 

Naproxen, Celebrex, Ibuprofen etc. for years due to Chronic /acute back pain.  Joint pain in general.

I stopped them 4 months ago in preparation for my RNY.

I was and I still am concerned about pain after RNY and I am going to tell you what they told me.

There is a strong possibility that pain will be reduced while you lose the weight. You won't be lugging all that weight around.  You will feel better and move about much easier.

I hope this helps!

16 days for RNY 

Sandra

Mahalo

I have neuropathy, fibromyalgia and chronic migraines.  My Dr told me that my pain levels will be lower and I may be able to take fewer meds.   Except for the gabapentin for neuropathy I think that will be true-- neuropathy is not curable.  

I presently take Cymbalta and Amitriptyline for long term effects of Lyme disease (migraine and depression).  I have not had any problems since 2 weeks post op. While still in the hosp. the surgical resident changed my Cymbalta to Effexor because it was "pill" form not a capsule. Not good; they may be used as steps in treating depression but they are NOT interchangeable. Cymbalta should not be stopped cold turkey. The side effects are very uncomfortable, hearing buzzing and crackling sounds and seeing flashes of light, along with extreme moodiness.

I was given permission by the doc who prescribes the med to open the cap(Cymbalta) and mix in apple sauce.  The pharmacist did not agree.

Ask questions about a med. plan pre-op so you don't have miserable withdrawal symptoms like I had.

Just a heads up Effexor can also not be stopped cold turkey, it has the same effect as you described the Cymbalta having.  Not fun at all!!

I was told that I could no longer take any medications for my arthritis, whi*****luded gabapentin.

That said, my arthritis pain has been much less since my surgery.

Did you take something instead of the gabapentin?

Hi there Stacey, I take gabapentin and amitriptyline. I've lost 90lbs since June. Good luck with your journey.