From the Guidelines

NSAIDs should be used with caution in patients with a gastric band, as they can increase the risk of gastrointestinal complications.

The use of NSAIDs is associated with a high risk of gastrointestinal complications, including symptomatic or complicated ulcers, bleeding, perforation, or obstruction 1.
The average relative risk of developing a serious GI complication is 3- to 5-fold greater among NSAID users than among nonusers 1.
Estimates suggest that NSAID use results in about 100,000 hospitalizations annually in the United States 1.

Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration of time
Consider using NSAIDs with relatively lower GI risk, such as coxibs or certain nsNSAIDs like ibuprofen 1
Cotherapy with gastroprotective agents, such as misoprostol or proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), may reduce NSAID-associated toxicity 1
H pylori eradication may be considered in patients at high risk for GI bleeding 1

While there is no direct evidence on the use of NSAIDs in patients with a gastric band, the general principles of reducing GI risk should still apply.
Patients with a gastric band may be at higher risk for GI complications due to the altered anatomy of the stomach.
Therefore, it is essential to carefully weigh the benefits and risks of NSAID use in these patients and consider alternative pain management options when possible.

From the Research

The use of Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) with a gastric band is a concern due to the potential risk of gastric complications 2.
A study published in 2024 reported a case of late-onset gastric band erosion following heavy NSAID use, highlighting the potential risks of combining these two treatments 2.
However, there is limited research specifically focusing on the interaction between NSAIDs and gastric bands.

NSAIDs are known to increase the risk of gastric complications, such as peptic ulcers, especially when used continuously for ≥30 days 3.
A study published in 2022 found that continuous NSAID use was a significant risk factor for the development of peptic ulcers after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), but not after sleeve gastrectomy (SG) 3.
Another study published in 2005 discussed the gastrointestinal effects of selective and non-selective NSAIDs, highlighting the importance of managing gastrointestinal complications when using these drugs 4.

Gastrointestinal adverse effects of NSAIDs can be managed by discontinuing NSAID therapy, switching to a cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitor, or prescribing gastric prophylaxis 5.
A study published in 2025 found that prescription of gastric-protective medications with concurrent NSAID therapy was relatively low among orthopedists, and that provider education on societal guidelines and computer-based alerts can increase compliance and assessment for NSAID-induced gastric complications 5.

NSAIDs have also been associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular events, both fatal and nonfatal 6.
A literature review published in 2014 discussed the risk of cardiovascular events related to NSAID use and proposed alternative options for pain treatment, including the use of analgesic drugs with different mechanisms of action 6.