I just started using the Dexcom G5 continuous glucose monitor (CGM), and they say not to use acetaminophen (like Tylenol) as a pain med, since it is known to give false high readings while using acetaminophen. However, I am also taking Eliquis as a blood thinner for my a-fib. Unfortunately, when using Eliquis it is recommended to use acetaminophen (Tylenol), instead of NSAIDs or aspirin. What would be an alternative pain medication to use,instead of acetaminophen/NSAIDs while I am using Eliquis and the Dexcom G5? (either prescription or OTC) A local pharmacist says there is nothing(!), and my 2 specialists point there fingers at each other to say it’s the other guy’s problem.
@jkirkmd you might try Roxicodone a varients of Oxycodone for pain relief, which does not have acetaminophen (it’s cousin Percocet does). If you are looking for an anti-inflammatory you might have a search on your hands as almost every type is on the patient warning. Your Dr will ha e to weigh the pros and Cons for anti-inflammatories since the side effects are significant. Pain relief however, you have choices.
You can POSSIBLY use Acetaminophen. However, Dexcom is required to make you aware that their testing has shown Acetaminophen to cause erroneous readings from the cgm.
If I was in your position, I would give it a try and check with a meter to see the level of impact. I probably would also not bolus from the cgm but would bolus from a meter. It is possible that the impact to the cgm readings may not be great enough to detract from the value of the cgm. Also possible it might. If it was me, I would still give it a try. Given the scenario you describe.
Bear in mind this is a relatively short situation as the restriction against Acetaminophen has been removed with the G6 which I assume you would switch to at SOME point in time.
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Thanks for that suggestion. I’ll give that a try, since I am allergic to Percocet (bad reaction). It would be interesting to measure what all the fuss is about. I’ll switch to the G6 when it’s available for Medicare.
I take Acetaminophen (Tylenol 3’s) when I get infused with IVgG. It certainly causes some brief “wonkiness” to my G5 readings, but usually only for 3 or 4 hours. Doesn’t appear to impact long term reliability of the G5 or its sensor filament.
I’d recommend taking it and finger poke more often for reference.
the option I use is a combination of Hydrocodone and Advil. However Advil is an NSIAD so I am guessing that would not work. This medication combination is a bit difficult to find, but for others avoiding Acetaminophen but that require Hydrocodone it is a good option. Most doctors do not routinely prescribe it, and usually a pharmacy does not stock it, but can get it overnight.
I’ve taken acetaminophen without any changes to the readings on my g5. Same thing with my wife.
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