NSAIDs and bariatric surgery

Question
Is there a good substitute for NSAIDs after bariatric surgery?  I've got to choose between a vertical gastrectomy and RNY bypass.  The bypass is the gold standard for weight loss, but I've been told I could continue to take NSAIDs with a gastrectomy.  I'm 48 with BMI of 35, mild/moderate OS symptoms in hands, wrists, shoulders, and feet. I felt great while on Naproxen, but have been off for 3 weeks and now feel 10 years older.  I will try Tylenol, but shouldn't I be taking an anti-inflammatory for a inflammatory disease?

Answer
Mark,
Most patients find that Celebrex (an anti-inflammatory available by prescription) is very helpful for conditions like Osteoarthritis.  Although Celebrex is a cousin of standard NSAIDs, it does not have the same level of ulcer risk as they do.

Importantly, most patients find that their total body inflammation drops down a lot as they lose weight.  It is realistic to hope that you may not need anti-inflammatory meds after 4 months or so of weight loss.

Best of luck,
Dr JP

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