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What Causes Abdominal Cramps While On Lortab?

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Posted on Mon, 27 Feb 2017
Question: I am a 61 year old male. 10 years ago I had a triple coronary bypass. I've not had any heart problems since. I did take two 7.5 mg of lortab daily for 8-9 years. I have been "clean for 35 days, yet still experiencing stomach cramping. My concern is if these pains could be caused by some other problem which might be overlooked? Can withdrawal symptoms last this long? Other associated withdrawals symptoms are mostly gone. Thank ypu
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Answered by Dr. Ilir Sharka (3 hours later)
Brief Answer:
I would recommend as follows:

Detailed Answer:
Hello!

Welcome and thank you for asking on HCM!

Regarding your concern, I would explain that your symptoms could be related to lortab withdrawal symptoms. But as a long time has passed from your last tablet it is necessary exclude other possible causes like gastritis, gastro-esophageal reflux and cardiac ischemia (especially considering your past medical history).

Have you tried taking omeprazole or antiacids? If your symptoms were relieved by these drugs, it would indicate possible gastritis or gastro-esophageal reflux.

Otherwise, I would recommend consulting with your attending physician for a careful physical exam and some tests:

- a resting ECG
- a chest X ray study
- complete blood count
- blood electrolytes.

A cardiac stress test would be needed if suspicions of coronary ischemia are raised.

Hope you will find this answer helpful!

Kind regards,

Dr. Iliri
Note: For further queries related to coronary artery disease and prevention, click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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Answered by
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Dr. Ilir Sharka

Cardiologist

Practicing since :2001

Answered : 9534 Questions

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What Causes Abdominal Cramps While On Lortab?

Brief Answer: I would recommend as follows: Detailed Answer: Hello! Welcome and thank you for asking on HCM! Regarding your concern, I would explain that your symptoms could be related to lortab withdrawal symptoms. But as a long time has passed from your last tablet it is necessary exclude other possible causes like gastritis, gastro-esophageal reflux and cardiac ischemia (especially considering your past medical history). Have you tried taking omeprazole or antiacids? If your symptoms were relieved by these drugs, it would indicate possible gastritis or gastro-esophageal reflux. Otherwise, I would recommend consulting with your attending physician for a careful physical exam and some tests: - a resting ECG - a chest X ray study - complete blood count - blood electrolytes. A cardiac stress test would be needed if suspicions of coronary ischemia are raised. Hope you will find this answer helpful! Kind regards, Dr. Iliri