Question:
Can anyone recommend a good pain medication?

I have endometriosis and have terrible abdominal pain "cramps" (severe). I usually would take Ponstel but since the surgery we cannot have any Ibuprofen or Aspirin based meds. Tylenol does not help...It seems to make my pain worse. Please help! Can someone please relate.    — Dedee (posted on December 17, 2003)

December 17, 2003
Gosh, I wish I had the answer. I am two months post-op and can relate to the pain you speak of. My first period after my surgery was so horrific I ended up using all of the pain medicine my surgeon gave me for the surgery...
   — Amy E.

December 17, 2003
hi ~ there are pain patches (transdermal meds) that your doctor can write a prescription for. all this means is that the pain meds are absorbed thru your skin, and don't need to be processed thru your liver, or go thru your stomach. this is an excellent way to medicate for pain, because your meds are absorbed more evenly into your blood stream. research them first, a patient that is well versed is their own best advocate. good luck ~
   — Karen D.

December 17, 2003
Hi, I can totally relate to your pain. I eventually started getting the Depo-Provera shot because I think I had mild endometriosis. It's worked wonders for me because now I don't have periods, hence no cramping. <p>As for pain control, I take liquid Lortab, not for cramps, but for severe arthritis pain. I also take Vioxx, but sometimes, especially now that it's cold, the pain gets so severe it's almost crippling, and Lortab has been the only thing to help so far. Keep in mind, though, that Lortab is a narcotic and can cause sleepiness, dizziness, and some other side effects.</p> <p>Of course, the best thing for you to do would be to talk to your doctor. See what he/she suggests for your pain control. For me, taking regular Tylenol is like taking a sugar pill.</p> <p>Good luck, I hope you're able to find some relief!
   — Moysa B.

December 17, 2003
I have used Vicodin and Percocet and Darvocet for short periods without any ill effects. Although they can be addictive taken over the long term, you're talking a day or two per month. Ultram might be one to consider if your doc finds it appropriate. Again, you're not talking long term, but as needed only. I once was totally disabled and took Ponstel a long time ago, but had the freedom inducing hystie long ago.
   — vitalady

December 17, 2003
My PCP gave me some samples for Ultracet. She checked them out and said it should be okay for me to take them post-op. So far they have worked pretty good but they make me a little groggier than the ibuprofen I used to take.
   — San D.

December 17, 2003
I have a post-op friend taking Vioxx for pain, and she has great luck with it.
   — kultgirl