Pain Medicine and RNY

[Annek2014 58]

Does anyone have issues with pain medication not lasting as long as it is supposed to? I take Tramadol for pain in my hips, hands, back and neck. This is a question I have not been able to find an answer to. The PCP acts like it should be enough. Yes, it does take my pain away, but not the full 6 hours.

Anyone else in this boat?

[perfektlynrml 185]

You probably should see a pain management specialist. It could be an absorption issue.

[Annek2014 58]

See, that is what I have been thinking. I have had a terrible time over the years after surgeries getting the pain controlled.

I do see one who I get injections in my neck and back for. Hmm, I haven't asked this question. The Pain Doctor doesn't prescribe Tramadol (they won't prescribe any) any my PCP prescribes it.

I will be making some calls tomorrow. My Gastric Doc is in another state, in fact in a different practice that I had my surgery in. I don't have a new Gastric Doctor where I live.

[perfektlynrml 185]

That sounds like a wise decision. You are having breakthrough pain. Bring your full list of medication to the attention of the pain management doctor. You should also have a new gi workup. Could be something happening that is decreasing absorption. Another option is to cross reference your meds with your pharmacist to make sure you aren’t taking anything that impairs absorption.

[Annek2014 58]

Will do.

[toodlerue 432]

Hhuumm that is an interesting question. I take pain meds & haven’t really thought about how my RNY has affected them. I did talk with my pain specialist about it a few weeks ago & he said he didn’t see any reason that they shouldn’t work the same now.

[Annek2014 58]

Our digestive track is different and so is the acid in our pouch. Which could make the pills dissolve or go through your track faster because of the way the RNY is made.

[perfektlynrml 185]

I use drugs.com to keep a digital list of my medication. I can access it anywhere and I also have my medical history on there. When you enter the medication it flags any interactions they have with each other. Additionally, this is a link to a discussion of Tramadol and things you need to know. https://www.drugs.com/tips/tramadol-patient-tips