Question:
I presently take oxy-contin for chronic back pain - how will a Lap/DS affect my use

Oxy0contin is a time release codeine tablet for chronic pain - they are not supposed to be crushed. They are very small. I am concerned with keeping my chronic back pain under control so I can be mobile post op. I also take a horse pill sized Relafin and wonder about that too. My pain clinic doc has no suggestions and insists I take this pill whole, but I am concerned about the mal-absorption effect on the time release effect. My surgeon refered me to the pain clinic for guidance.    — Elle H. (posted on June 14, 2001)

June 14, 2001
I tried to email you but it keeps coming back. I sent it to [email protected] Please reply to [email protected] I have a question for you about the pain meds.
   — TJSmith

June 14, 2001
I am not sure why it is you have your chronic back pain but alot of people don't need the pain meds after losing weight, as alot of times that is the reason for the pain or an aggravator to other conditions. If you do have a problem that is not weight related and you are not able to take the oral pills there are pain patches such as duragesic that is time released. It is a patch you apply to your skin on your back or shoulder. Talk with your pain management dr. about it.
   — paula B.

June 14, 2001
Oxycontin is the pain reliever that my Dr. prescribed for me when I left the hospital after my RNY bypass. I could take them twice a day, one in the morning and one at night. I had no problem swallowing the pills which as you said are rather small. I only used them for a couple days. However, 3 weeks after my bypass, I had knee surgery and used those instead of the vicadin that the orthopedic dr prescribed because they gave me longer relief from my knee pain. They worked well so I am assuming there was no problem with malabsorbtion. Hope this helps. Good Luck.
   — cheryl R.

June 14, 2001
I take OxyContin because I have had serious back injuries and 2 surgeries, one not successful. I do hope that WLS will help my back pain but have been cautioned by surgeon and PCP not to count on it. Duragesic is not strong enough to control my pain (sadly) so right now I need help with someone who has an idea about oxy contin. Hoping you are out there. elle
   — Elle H.