So, I am one of those people with back problems. Long story short, I've been going to the Dr. for the past 6-8 months and receiving spinal steriod injections as treatment. I have also been taking hydrocodone for the past 6 months or so as pain management. Sometimes 1 a day, sometimes 2-3 depending on pain, sometimes none. I've read a couple war stories about how VSG will be hard on my liver and I'm now worried that the surgery + drug combo may give me trouble. I'm having surgery in Mexico on May 31st and I made sure to list the hydros as part of my current medications. Doctor didn't seem to be too worried. Anyone have any thoughts on this?

As a side note: I'm a weekend drinker. Rarely hard alcohol, usually just beer....

The only thing I've heard about VSG being hard on the liver is if you have a fatty liver and the possibility of the fatty liver getting nicked during the surgery. If the doc's not concerned about hydrocodone and you are still some what anxious, check with another doc and ask for his professional opinion. Especially the pain doc that prescribes the meds.

Thanks Dorrie! Game plan so far is to STOP taking them 2 weeks prior (that means today), tons of water to flush system and no more social drinking! Luckily my pre-op diet isnt too harsh since I'm a self payer but I plan to start it today as well beause I want to be in tip top form!!!

Hopefully you can take tylenol. It will be hard to stop cold turkey, but you can do it! You have a great plan of action and will be highly successful. With reduced weight, your pain will be eliminated. Let me know how your doing on your pre-op plan.

I was taking that for my neck problems. They didn't tell me to stop at all. In fact, they said that was one of the meds I could take the morning of surgery!! Your plan sounds like a great one, and you should follow their orders; but I wanted to let you know not to be worried at all!

Discuss the hydrocodone with a pharmacist.

Nowadays, I will take the word of a good pharmacist over a great doctor. When I say good, they are regulalry speaking to customers, attend follow up educational events, know thier chemistry, etc.

Thanks so much! Just love the support and great words of advise from this forum!!!

Joni...that really sets my mind at ease!

If your blood work has come back fine I would not worry to much about the Hydrocodone. I have a rare liver disease, have had VSG and still able to take hydrocodone for pain. Not as frequently as you but hopefully once the weight comes off you will have relief from pain.