Bariatric surgery can significantly impact the absorption and metabolism of medicines resulting in changes in efficacy and adverse effects. Despite the number of bariatric surgeries performed, these changes remain poorly documented and understood. Patients undergoing bariatric surgery often have comorbidities requiring multiple medicines and pharmacotherapy may be complicated not only by changes in absorption and metabolism following surgery, but also by improvement in conditions such as diabetes and hypertension, after surgery.

This presentation will provide an update on medicines management pre- and post- bariatric surgery with some practical strategies in an area of practice where there is limited evidence.

Learning objectives:

  • Describe the basic management of medicines after bariatric surgery
  • Discuss the effects of bariatric surgery on medication pharmacokinetics.
  • Describe the impact of bariatric surgery on medication management, including formulation selection and medications to avoid