Question:
Has anyone had experience with prescription medications working differently on us?

Since my gastric bypass surgery, I have been diagnosed with autoimmune diseases dermatomyositis and lupus. I went thru many different medications trying to get it under control. I wonder if the surgery has caused the medications to not be absorbed as they should. Has anyone else had experience with these diseases or any medications that you take?    — mkessler (posted on December 28, 2008)

December 29, 2008
Hi Mary, You are correct about absorption of meds after bypass. I too fought issues with a disease for a year before my Doc figured out to split my meds into twice daily vs. once daily. After that things fell into line and I got better. Good thinking on your part. I wish I would have thought of this a year sooner. Good luck! -Darlene
   — dadebrito

December 29, 2008
It is very possible depending on where the meds you are taking are normally absorbed and at what receptors in the body...RNYers have a difficult time with many things being absorbed because of lack of stomach acid and bypassed small intestines. These are the two main places where nutrients are absorbed. So it's pretty much a given that some meds will not be absorbed well either...But you really need to talk to your doc about this and make sure that if you do up your dosage it is under strict care/supervision with your doc or surgeon! I am watching my thyroid meds right now...We started on the lowest dose for now and will slowly move it up as need be....When it comes to meds and severe or chronic pain or symptoms that pop up...You NEED to see a doctor for these matters...Your doc went to school for this stuff! I just study this stuff because it's my body and I want to know how it works so I can live out a long healthy life with an altered digestion system...I share what I learn and my experiences...That's the best most of us can do...So please be careful with meds! They can do great damage if you don't have a docs supervision or schooling! ...And your doc can probably find an alternative that works better if your meds are not working well.
   — .Anita R.

December 29, 2008
Hi Mary, I am soooo glad you posted this question. I was diagnosed with lupus 3 years ago. I am currently trying to get RNY. My lupus is very active right now so my Rheumy will not give me the OK for the surgery. I have an appt. with my surgeon tomorrow to discuss my medication options afer surgery. I currently take about 21 meds. multiple times a day for my lupus and COPD. Some of those are NSAIDS and sometimes steroids. I will not be able to take either one after surgery. I am also limited on some meds already because of my lung problems. My Rheumy suggested, for a flair, after surgery, IV steroids, which would require a daily visit to the hospital. I should still be able to take my plaquenil and Imuran. Another problem is I think some of my meds cannot be crushed so we will discuss that tomorrow too. I will even throw your question to the doc. to see what he says. I'm sorry you have lupus but I am glad to have met you. Sincerely, Kathy
   — CheekyMonkey

December 29, 2008
Hi Mary, Yes that absorption rate can change. Talk to your docs about adjusting your medication dosage. The needs of our bodies change for many reasons and surgery is one of them. Also make sure doc is following you routinely with labs for your lupus. You didn't say how your lupus affected you(which part of your body); but keep a close eye on your kidneys. Good Luck and God Bless, vinnigirl
   — vinnigirl