Meds prescribed following cervical acdf - Spinal Cord Disorders Message Board

Payton02 · 03-02-2007, 08:44 PM

I had a spinal acdf on C6/C7 on Wednesday. I was prescribed the following meds:

Methocarbamol 750 mg: 2 tablets every 8 hours as needed for spasms

Hydrocodone 5/500: 1 - 2 tablets every 6 hours as needed for pain

Ibuprofen 800 mg: 1 tablet 3 times per day

Almost everyone who posts on this forum states that they were told to stay away from ibuprofen as it inhibits fusion. I don't understand why my neurosurgeon would prescribe this treatment if this is the case. Has anyone else been prescribed this treatment? Has anyone had a successful fusion after using ibuprofen? I don't want to go against the doctor's orders, but I am concerned about this issue. Any advice?

painfulneck · 03-02-2007, 08:59 PM

I too was told to stay away from ibuprofen for 6-8 weeks following my fusion surgery. That was from my surgeon. My rehab doc told me he too follows this advice but it hasn't really been proven one way or the other. Painfulneck

dac9162 · 03-02-2007, 09:23 PM

I took Celebrex (an NSAID like Ibuprofen) for arthritis regularly before my ACDF. My neursurgeon told me not to take it post-surgery for at least 2 weeks. I asked him at my 3 week post op appt if I should resume taking it and he replied that the longer I can avoid taking it until the 6 week point, the better. His explanation was that as an anti-inflammatory it would reduce the swelling and pain in my throat, but it is that same inflamation that helps to promote fusion in the first 6 weeks, which is a bigger priority.

Unless someone here has reviewed the research to know to what extent it slows down fusion, if at all, it is unlikey that anyone here would feel it appropriate to advise you either to ignore, or to follow for that matter, your neurosurgeon's prescription.

Would you feel comfortable calling her office and asking her about it?

Wishing you a speedy recovery,
Debbie
Gurnee, IL

Payton02 · 03-02-2007, 10:21 PM

Since the ibuprofen was most likely prescribed for swelling and pain in the throat, I think I can get by without it. I am having most of my pain while swallowing, but the hydrocodone helps with that. I need to call the ns office early next week anyway, so I think I will pose the question to her or the nurse. I was just curious to know if anyone else had been prescribed this treatment. Thanks so much for your input.

rob_zzz · 03-03-2007, 02:49 AM

Payton - I think the question about the ibuprofen is definitely worth getting an answer to as soon as you can.

Even though its often difficult to get a conversation with the surgeon he would be best person to speak to, or at least one of his nurses. If you speak to one of his nurses make sure you explain why you're concerned and also asked why it was prescribed. It is possible that he has good reason for prescribing it for his particular way of doing things - each surgeon has their own variations in their procedures.