Medication management after bariatric surgery: Providing optimal patient care

Abstract

Substantially altered gastrointestinal anatomy/physiology after bariatric surgery presents new challenges for the proper medication management of these patients; drug absorption and bioavailability may increase, decrease, or remain unchanged post surgery, depending on the specific drug in question and the type of bariatric procedure. In this article, we offer a concise overview of the various aspects of this clinically significant issue, aiming to provide readers with a clear understanding as well as practical tools to handle drug management post bariatric surgery. Realizing the potentially altered pharmacokinetics of various drugs after bariatric surgery is essential for providing optimal pharmacological therapy and overall patient care.