If I can’t take Ibuprofen, then what can I take? I’m scheduled to have a gastric sleeve surgery next month. Please help.

Question

I have endometriosis. My cramps are very sever and the only thing that has helped me with the pain is Ibuprofen. After my surgery I won’t be able to take ibuprofen so I was hoping someone can recommend me another over the counter or natural remedy for my pain. Any advice is much appreciated.  Thank you

Babak Moeinolmolki, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello,
Congratulations on making the life-changing decision to undergo surgery! You are wise to consider pain management options before the need arises.
For patients without liver conditions, acetaminophen (Tylenol) can be a useful pain management alternative to ibuprofen. I also recommend you consult your gynecologist for additional recommendations.
Best regards,

Ali Solmaz, MD · Answer

After gastric sleeve surgery, NSAIDs like ibuprofen are not recommended because they can increase the risk of ulcers, stomach irritation, and bleeding due to the reduced stomach size and protective lining. However, there are other options for managing severe endometriosis pain post-surgery.
Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is the safest over-the-counter option for pain relief after VSG. While it’s not as effective as ibuprofen for inflammation, it can still help with pain. If acetaminophen isn’t enough, your doctor might prescribe stronger medications such as Tramadol, a mild opioid often used for post-surgical pain, or Gabapentin or Pregabalin, which are sometimes used for nerve-related pain.
Another option to discuss with your doctor is Cox-2 inhibitors, such as Celecoxib (Celebrex). This is a selective NSAID that may be safer for your stomach than ibuprofen. Some bariatric surgeons allow it, but you should check with yours to confirm if it’s appropriate for you.
If your cramps are severe and difficult to manage, you may also want to explore hormonal options, such as birth control or GnRH agonists, which can significantly reduce endometriosis-related pain.

Pablo Garcia, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Hello, I hope you are well. Your bariatric team will provide pain medication for you. Other common pain killers inclue opioids and acetaminophen. I recommed you discuss your preferences with your team, I am confident it will not be an issue.

Mark Pleatman, MD (retired) · Answer

Maybe my answer was not clear enough when you asked this before.  You can take ibuprofen after sleeve gastrectomy, because there is no re-routing of the intestines and the stomach still empties normally (actually it empties faster than before).

If I can’t take Ibuprofen, then what can I take? I’m scheduled to have a gastric sleeve surgery next month. Please help.

Answers (4)

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