Why They Should Be Avoided After Sleeve Gastrectomy and Gastric Bypass
Many patients ask whether they can take painkillers after bariatric surgery, such as sleeve gastrectomy or gastric bypass.
In reality, most painkillers, anti-inflammatory medications, and corticosteroids should be strictly avoided for at least one year after bariatric surgery, because these medications can cause serious complications affecting the stomach and digestive system.
Why Are Painkillers Restricted After Bariatric Surgery?
Taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or similar medications after bariatric surgery may lead to serious complications, including:
- Gastric ulcers
- Severe gastritis
- Gastrointestinal bleeding
- Vomiting blood (hematemesis)
- Rectal bleeding
- Acute or chronic gastric leaks
- Gastric perforation
For this reason, bariatric surgeons strongly recommend avoiding these medications whenever possible, particularly during the first year after surgery.
Common Painkillers That Should Be Avoided After Bariatric Surgery
Patients should avoid the following medications and any drugs with similar effects:
- Voltaren (Diclofenac)
- Ketolac / Ketorolac
- Brufen (Ibuprofen)
- Bi-Alcofan
- Dimra
- Apidone
- Sulpiride
- Dexamethasone (Dexa)
Patients should also avoid:
- All non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- All COX inhibitors
- Medications containing caffeine or ephedrine and their derivatives
These restrictions apply to all brand names and all dosage forms, including:
- Tablets
- Injections
- Suppositories
- Effervescent medications
However, topical analgesic creams or gels may be used, as they do not significantly affect the stomach.
What Should You Do If You Need Pain Relief After Bariatric Surgery?
If pain relief is needed after bariatric surgery, patients should consult their physician before taking any medication to determine the safest option that will not harm the stomach.
The medications allowed may vary depending on:
- The patient’s medical condition
- The type of bariatric procedure performed
Recommendations from the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery
The American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS) recommends avoiding anti-inflammatory medications and corticosteroids after bariatric surgery due to their potential to increase the risk of gastric ulcers and gastrointestinal bleeding.
Dr. Ahmed Shinkar
Consultant of Bariatric and Laparoscopic Surgery