will pain pre-op meds have an effect on how well pain meds will work post-op?

Question

I was told that anything stronger then loratab or vicodine taken prior to sugery for over one week would decrease the benficial effects of stronger medications used post-operatively such as morphine and other opiate medictions.

Answer 1

It won't have anything to do with it if you let your doctor know that you are taking these meds preop. If he knows ahead of time and he's a good doctor, then the pain med that he prescribes the first time around post-op should be strong enough to compensate for the build up of the tolerance you've acquired. You should definetely let the doctor know. This way there won't be any trial and error on prescribing the correct med and strength for your pain after your surgery.

Answer 2

If you are on a lot of pain medications for a long time you can develop a tolerance. However, be honest with your doctor about what you are taking and they can prescribe an appropriate dose for you post-op.

Answer 3

Yes indeed, because you build up a tolerance to the pain meds, and a higher than usual dosage will be required post op.