3 replies to this topic

[MamaTracylee]

I am having bariatric surgery very soon and am concerned about the absorption of my Cymbalta. I will have a very small stomach pouch and part of my upper intestine missing and am wondering where it gets dissolved and if it might present a problem post-surgery. Has anyone had experience with this or any other mood disorder medications and bariatric surgery?

[invalidusername]

Hi there - I assume we are talking along the lines of a gastric bypass? In the case the enteric coating on the cymbalta resists stomach acids and one would assume that they will have long descended into the intestines prior to the release and subsequent absorption of the meds. However, the only study of this kinds shows otherwise.

 

A mean absorption rate of 57% compared to the control group is shown in such patients;

 

https://pubmed.ncbi....h.gov/23771193/

 

So, it will need to be monitored. Going by the statistics on the paper, it can fluctuate between patients, thus the confidence interval is quite variable - meaning the range extends either way from the 57% to reach the average.

 

You must make this known to the doctors and the GP involved with the surgery.

[MamaTracylee]

Thank you! Yes, my doctors and pharmacist know so we will keep an eye on it. It really affects me when the dosage is altered so I am hoping it will remain somewhat stable.

 

Thanks so much for your informative answer!

 

~ Tracy

[fishinghat]

Welcome Tracy

 

Just a note to add to what IUN said. Cymbalta can decrease clotting time and many drs direct their patients to stop Cymbalta about a week before surgery. You might want to discuss that with your doctor. 

 

Cymbalta slows clotting; 

https://www.ncbi.nlm...pubmed/22054632

https://www.ncbi.nlm...bmed/18958440.)