Can we use NSAID topical creams?? Anyone know?

My dr. told me to use some Volturon Emmanugel (sp?) which is a topical NSAID to deal with this pleuritis I am having at the moment.  Can we use it if it is a topical cream, or does it work the same way an oral NSAID works??

It's not the same as taking an NSAID orally, because there isn't the direct contact with the stomach, but the drug absorbs through the skin and get into the blood stream where some will end up in contact with the stomach, but not at nearly the same concentration. I know Dr. Anvari has told at least one RNY post-op it was safe in another post I read.
In the end, it's a cost-benefit analysis. Is there anything else you can take as an alternative? If no, then you consider the risks whether there is anything you can do to minimize them (like take a PPI while you're using it). It seems like there are possible alternatives though, like tylenol and corticosteroids if necessary, so you could investigate that.

Topical is fine. The problem with oral/pills is they have to pass through the stomach. Topically they don't. Hope you are on the mend. You've had a rough time lately. Pleurisy is nasty. Feel better soon

Kristie

Actually being absorbed into the bloodstream is usually the issue with NSAIDs -- not necessarily just to the pouch but also into the GI tract,j including the remnant stomach.

It varies according to surgeons. Some say yes, some say no. some say short term only. I've seen it posted here previously and most Ontario docs seem to be okay with the use.

Both the internist at Humber and my surgeon approved my pre-op meds for Voltren and pennsaid (topical Nsaids) for use post-op. I use both for my knee arthritis as needed. They said not to worry about the small amount going through my blood. 

Hope you feel better soon.

Damn I had pennsaid and didn't even ask I just threw it out assuming it was a no-no.

Thanks for the info guys  :)

I was told to absolutely not use it (Ottawa).  Instead I use one of the Lakota products.  If you try Lakota, make sure you don't use the one that contains willow bark as it works like an NSAID.

Both my American surgeon and Canadian Doc and my Chiropractor are fine with the topical creams I use voltaran and one I get in the states called Aspercreme

Sadly this excites me. Do you know if this would work on my lower back and arthritic hip?