Question:
Does anyone know what we can take postop for arthristis

knowing that NSAIDS are a no-no now? What does someone do with any type of arthritis as far as pain/inflammation are concerned? Thanks!! :)    — L M. (posted on June 1, 2003)

June 1, 2003
Actually I am wondering myself if Darvacet is a NSAID?
   — George B.

June 1, 2003
George...Darovocet is an opioid (narcotic) pain reliever that contains acetaminophen (Tylenol-like drug). It's not an NSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug). I take Tylenol 3, which is Tylenol with codeine, for my osteoarthritis and fibromyalgia. I wish there was something better I could take for pain relief, and I'm looking into that right now. I would rather not be taking a narcotic because of the possibility of dependence/addiction. There's just got be something better out there that we gastric bypass patients can take for pain and inflammation. Right now the Tylenol 3 does relieve a portion of the pain, but it does nothing for the inflammation of my osteoarthritis. Hugs, Joy
   — [Deactivated Member]

June 1, 2003
I have severe arthritis in both knees. My surgeon lets me take Celebrex on a limited basis. He said I could take it for 5 days and stay off for 5 days. Well, since I have no desire for an ulcer, I only take it when I absolutely have to have something to be able to function. A 30 day supply actually lasted me 6 months. But this really helps me. Other than that, I take a hydrocodone tablet every night at bedtime. You can take Glucosomine Chondrate but I don't know how much good it does.
   — Patty_Butler

June 1, 2003
My surgeon let me go back on Vioxx--25mg daily at one month post op. The pain in my knee was so unbearable that it was interfering with my exercise. I made an appt to see an orthopedic surgeon the 19th of the month so I will se if he has any other suggestions. The tylenol and Vicodin my PCP prescribaed was worhtless and the Vioxx allows me to tolerate the pain. I still feel as if a knife were being stabbed under my kneecap after I walk.
   — Margaret S.

June 1, 2003
I use plaquenil. It's not in the NSAID family at all.
   — vitalady

June 2, 2003
I tried doing without my vioxx for a while but nothing else seemed to help so I went back on it. My doc said to be sure I eat first before taking the pill once a day. I know I run a risk of pouch ulcers, but its a risk I am willing to take for now as the vioxx works wonders.
   — Cindy R.