Question:
What about diabetes and insulin requirements after WLS?

I have had diabetes for 23 years and on insulin for most of that time. I am currently taking four shots of insulin per day. I was wondering what to expect after my WLS which is scheduled for 8/2/01. Will I still need to take insulin or will I still have to take as much?    — Anna G. (posted on July 15, 2001)

July 14, 2001
Hi! I have been diabetic for 15 yrs. I was on 3 shots a day and 4 tablets before surgery. I am now almost 7 mos. post op and am off of my shots and only take 1 glucophage and 1 actos tab a day. I hope I will be off those this week. My blood sugars are in the upper 90's and very low 100's for the first time in years. Read my profile and if you have any questions at all, please feel free to email me. Good luck!
   — k K.

July 15, 2001
Hi. This is almost a repeat of the first poster. I have been diabetic for 12 years. Prior to my surgery on April 27, 2001, I took 2 shots of insulin a day plus one amaryl and 1 actos. I haven't taken insulin since the day I went in for surgery and have been off amaryl for about 3 weeks. I hope to get rid of the actos soon too. My readings range between 80 and 115 the best for me in years!! The biggest thing I would stress is to discuss with your PCP prior to surgery, how to handle the decrease in medication. Which dosages to lower first, etc. And test, test,test your sugar at least the first couple weeks. When I first came home I religiously checked mine 4 times a day until I got it regulated. Good Luck and if you have any questions, feel free to email me.
   — cheryl R.