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Like any other surgical procedure, there are certain medications the patients must avoid after gastric sleeve surgery. As your surgeon has already told you the recovery period is as crucial as the operation itself and you should follow your surgeon’s instructions competently for a quick recovery.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and aspirin are not recommended after sleeve gastrectomy as they may increase the risk of stomach ulcers and bleeding. Corticosteroids, on the other hand, can prevent weight loss and prolong the healing time of wounds. If you have had gastric sleeve surgery, it is essential to consult your healthcare provider to determine which medications should be avoided and for postoperative pain management and other conditions.
In this article, we will mention the medications and gastric sleeve surgery, key considerations for a safe recovery. We will also talk about the postoperative medication guidelines.
Medications and Gastric Sleeve Surgery: Key Considerations for a Safe Recovery
Gastric sleeve surgery takes about 40 minutes and patients stay at the hospital for one or two nights. For long-term weight loss and maintenance after surgery, you must manage the process with great determination. In the meantime, it is essential for a fast recovery that you do not miss follow-up appointments. It will also be beneficial for you to participate in support groups and provide emotional support.
Personal hygiene and wound care are other points for a quick and safe recovery. You may shower after returning home. If you see, a yellow or pink fluid from your incision, do not panic, it’s normal. However, if you see symptoms such as high fever, vomiting,
chest pain, shortness of breathiness, persisting pain, you should go to the hospital immediately
Postoperative Medication Guidelines
Postoperative care by healthcare providers is important after gastric sleeve surgery as it is after any other surgery. For the patient's safety and quick recovery without any difficulties, it is important to have medication guidelines for the avoidance of certain things as a part of medication education. Your surgeon will do medication adjustments and also give you one medication guideline. Give full attention while reading it and apply all instructions written in the guideline.
Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) should never be used after bariatric surgery, such as gastric sleeve surgery, as they can increase the likelihood of serious stomach and intestinal side effects such as ulcers and bleeding. The elderly, those who consume alcohol frequently, those who use blood thinners, and those who have had stomach problems before should not use such drugs.
Blood Thinners and Anticoagulants
Blood thinners and anticoagulants prevent and treat clot-based health conditions such as stroke and pulmonary embolism. They have life-saving properties. However, since they increase the risk of bleeding, they may be inconvenient to use after bariatric surgeries such as gastric sleeve surgery. Ask your surgeon for a piece of detailed information.
Aspirin and Salicylates
If you have had a bariatric surgery such as gastric sleeve surgery, you should not take salicylates like aspirin or aspirin-containing products for one month, unless your surgeon tells you otherwise. At the end of a month, you need to take antacids with these drugs to protect your stomach.
Steroids and Corticosteroids
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs should not be taken as they can cause ulcers. If you are not sure about which drugs you can use, you should contact your surgeon and get detailed information.
Herbal Supplements and Natural Remedies
After undergoing gastric sleeve surgery, it is important to approach herbal supplements and natural remedies with caution. While some may claim to promote weight loss or aid in recovery, their safety and effectiveness may not be well-established. It is crucial to consult with your healthcare provider before taking any herbal supplements or natural remedies, as they can potentially interact with medications or hinder your recovery process.
