Medication Reminders!

As an RN, the majority of post operative questions I receive concern medications. I thought it may be helpful to include a reminder of what medications may or may not be used after Bariatric surgery here at St. Francis.

1. Do NOT take any of the following medication without clearance from your surgeon:
Ibuprofen
Arthritis medications
Aspirin
Imodium or any antidiarrheal medication
Milk of Magnesia or any other laxative

2. DO continue taking the proton pump inhibitor for three to six months after surgery as the medication was ordered by your surgeon. This is important to prevent the formation of gastric ulcers. Medications in this classification include Nexium,Protonix, Prevacid, and Prilosec.

3. Consult with your family doctor or your specialist for regulation of blood pressure and diabetes medications. These need to be monitored and adjusted or eliminated as weight loss occurs.

4. If constipation occurs or is a concern, taking a stool softener such as Colace on as regular basis is advised. This is not a laxative, and it must be taken daily to be effective in the prevention of constipation. Eating high fiber foods such as baby food prunes is also recommended.

As always, if you have any questions or concerns be sure to contact your surgeon or Bariatric Center.