Question:
Has any one taken antinflamatory meds on a regular basis long term post-op ?

   — Carol G. (posted on February 11, 2003)

February 11, 2003
I have taken a Vioxx every day since around 4 months post-op (thats a good 6 months or so) and haven't had any problems. I know I run the risk of an ulcer, though. Others have experienced this from antiinflamatories.
   — Cindy R.

February 11, 2003
I have been taking Vioxx 25mg/day since before my surgery 8 months ago. My surgeon only allows us to take tylenol or perscription wise, Vioxx, Celebrex, or Bextra. I am doing fine and I don't have any reason to think that I have an ulcer. Good luck to you!
   — cjabates

February 11, 2003
I was supposed to take celebrex (similar to vioxx) for inflammation pain after an ulcer surgery. I was and still am in pain 8 weeks later, but discontinued the use. The instructions clearly say can cause a bleeding ulcer, and for people who have small tummies like us, I'd be very cautious. I wouldn't take it for long extended periods of time. My surgeon and other docs said it'd be okay. But that was the one thing I totally disagree with them on. I've heard from many other people how these medicines caused complications for them after having WLS. Ofcourse, it's a small percentage, but it is there. Just be cautious is all I'm saying. Goodluck!
   — Lezlie Y.

February 11, 2003
i was diagnosed with t.i.a.'s (transient eschemic attacks a.k.a. mini strokes) in nov 2002. in order to ward off a major stroke i must take 81 mg aspirin for the rest of my life. i know full well the risk i am taking by using the aspirin, but, i believe the aspirin is the lesser of 2 evils. i would rather contend with an ulcer than be a 'vegetable' the rest of my life. i saw my pcp just today & we talked about anti-inflammatories & the risks for wls patients. he suggested a medicine called 'NEURONTIN' saying that this is not an NSAID. maybe u can discuss using this with ur dr. good luck.
   — sheryl titone

February 11, 2003
I was on them up until about 9 months post-op, I started getting very ill and was not getting better, I was spitting up blood all the time. It was anti-inflams, and it stopped when they took me off of them. Problem is, now my back hurts so much all the time, and I can't take anything that works.
   — Karen E.

February 11, 2003
I take Celebrex on a regular basis, no problems. If I need additional pain relief, I take Tylenol. During a flare I take Vicodin and Neurontin as needed. I also take Prevacid on a regular basis.
   — Bobbi G.

February 11, 2003
I am 3 years post-op RNY and have taken Arthrotec regularly since my surgery. It is the only anti-inflammatory that my bariatric surgeon will allow. It is a "combination" drug that has an additional drug (Cytotec) in it that protects the stomach. I has worked beautifully for me with no side-effects. Best wishes!
   — Diana T.