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T o p i c :   Medications & Colonoscopy

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Q: I am a 47 year old female with UC. I have had 3 colonoscopies. Each time I have been given large doses of  Demerol. The problem is that I am still in severe pain to the point that I tell the Dr. he has to stop during the procedure as I cannot take the pain. Do I have any alternatives. My M.D.(this has happened with 2 Dr.s) says that I am over sensitive to pain.
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A: It is true that there are some individuals who are exquisitely sensitive to any scope movement.  Sometimes this is due to scar tissue from inflammatory conditions (prior abdominal or pelvic surgery/ endometriosis/ diverticulitis etc.) The usage of a smaller "pediatric" scope may be better tolerated.  The sedative Versed is reported to have a better amnesia effect than  diazepam which was used for many years. The assistance of an anesthesiologist to administer a stronger sedative such as Diprivan (propofol) may be useful.     

©1998 Richard Saltz, M.D.