Codeine after PRK

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Irina Paley - 07 Dec 2008 20:51 GMT

Hello,

I had PRK two days ago, and my doctor wouldn't prescribe any pain
killers. Rather, he said to just take Motrin or Tylenol, which
"should be enough," as he put it. This is day three for me, and as
expected, the pain is especially bad. I happen to have some Tylenol3
(Tylenol 300+Codeine) on hand, and was wondering whether I can take
it. I am 26 years old, in excellent health, and good physical shape.
I have no medical conditions, and have had no ill effects using this
medication in the past for short-term pain management. Can you think
of any reason why my doctor would not want me taking this? Are there
any contraindications for PRK and Codeine? Please advise, as I would
really rather take the stronger stuff today, and go back to the over-
the-counter drugs tomorrow.

Thanks,
Irina

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Mike Tyner - 07 Dec 2008 22:57 GMT

Most of us are guilty of taking anti-inflammatories only when something
hurts.

But ibuprofen is most effective if you take it regularly. If you start
immediately after surgery, or even before, and then maintain a constant,
full dose, the pain doesn't develop. That's what your surgeon meant by
"should be enough."

Now that it hurts, painkillers are appropriate and I don't think anyone
would fault you for taking a tylenol #3 if it's legally prescribed.

Meantime you might also get back on the ibuprofen too. 24 hours of constant
dosage will make a big difference.

Cold compresses are another effective treatment.

-MT

> Hello,
>
[quoted text clipped - 13 lines]
> Thanks,
> Irina

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Irina Paley - 08 Dec 2008 00:21 GMT

> Most of us are guilty of taking anti-inflammatories only when something
> hurts.
[quoted text clipped - 13 lines]
>
> -MT

Thanks very much, Mike! That's great info, and very good to know.
Now I understand why my doctor told me to take the Motrin every four
hours, even if I didn't have any pain. Unfortunately for me, even
though I followed his instructions, the pain did come toward the end
of day two, and especially now, during day three. I switched to
Tylenol 3, but the relief is still minor. The ice pack helps only a
little bit. Hopefully, it'll get better tomorrow, when the doctor
takes the protective lens out.

-- Irina

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