Medication absorption issues with ileostomy

Surgery a few weeks ago reconnected my colon, eliminating a colostomy but resulting in a temporary ileostomy. I've been seeing my medications (full pills) spilling out of my bag. I've switched to liquid ibuprofen and acetaminophen, which seems to be attacking the pain, but other meds don't come in liquid form.

I'm wondering if others have had this problem and what, if anything, you've done to ensure the medications are getting digested. I'm also concerned that vitamins are being lost too.

As a side note, the surgery included a hysterectomy and hernia repair, in part the reason for a seemingly longer recovery.

Thanks so much for sharing your insight and experiences,
Rabbit

Yes! I had this problem too when I did my 2-phase reversal. I asked my doc if I could crush and mix with Sprite or ginger ale and he said it was ok. You should ask before trying but that's how I solved the problem.

I bought gummy vitamins too. They dissolved easier. How are you doing with the ileo?? I had such a hard time after having the colostomy. It was such a different experience.

Best of luck to you!!!

Thank you! Gummies - great idea.

The ileo is easier to manage on a daily basis because it all just flows out, and changing the appliance is less frequent. But changing the appliance is more challenging because the stoma seems to flow all the time, making it hard to have a dry, clean surface to stick to. But this all seems pretty normal, so I guess I'm doing pretty well with it. We'll see what happens when I have to go back to work and the small, frequent meals have to be integrated into my work schedule.

What was most difficult and easiest for you?

Going back to work with the ileo was a piece of cake for me. I didn't realize how much I snacked throughout the day at work though. Kind of an eye-opener about my diet.

The most difficult part of the ileo was changing the gear and emptying the bag so frequently. As you mentioned, it was always dribbling but I did learn a trick from the members here: marshmallows!! 3-4 marshmallows about 15 minutes before a gear change made a huge difference.

The easiest part was having the bag vs having to learn how to go to the bathroom again. I won't lie and say that I regret my reversal even with all the complications, but it has been strange to get to know the toilet again.

How long will you have your ileo?

Illio for 15 years here and yes, many meds come out pretty much the way they go in. Anything with a coating on it, forget it, like Acacol. I sometimes have to take twice as much of things like Tylenol or capsules because I'm not getting the full benefit of the medication. I'm only getting maybe half if I'm lucky. Of course, you need to check with your doctor first as you can't be doubling up on your prescribed meds in most cases. Some pills you can't crush or break, so again, check with your doctor (Pentassa, a giant horse pill, can't be broken).

As for the output, let's just say they do what they want. The marshmallow trick is good and works, but I stop eating at 7:30 in order to cut down on the movements during the night. I like to soak in the bath, so if I stop eating then, I can usually have a good long hot bath without any accidents before bed. Also, in the morning before you have breakfast when things have slowed down, is a good time to change as well.

I have only just now been learning how people have to deal with a Colostomy, compared to my Ileostomy. How you all manage, I do not know! My hat goes off to you as I would never have the patience needed to deal with the irrigation and draining. I have a new respect for my little Rose Bud now.

Words of Encouragement from Ostomy Advocates I Hollister

Hi,

I also have an ileostomy for almost 4 years now. All of my oral medications break down and are not passed whole. I also had adhesion and multiple hernia surgeries and still do not have this problem. If you already have a medical specialist, I would seek their advice. This is the first time I've heard this problem. Hope all goes well.

Hi, I have a loop colostomy that acts just like an ileostomy. I have trouble with my pills going through whole, so I make sure they are not time release or coated but still have some problems. Will be looking here to see if anyone has a good remedy.