Which prescription is given to help prevent gallstones after bariatric surgery?

• A. Antihistamines
• B. PPI
• C. NSAIDs
• D. Laxatives

Answer: (B)

When weight loss after bariatric surgery happens rapidly, the bile becomes more saturated with cholesterol, which raises the risk of gallstone formation. To prevent stones during this period, doctors commonly prescribe ursodeoxycholic acid, a bile acid that helps dissolve and prevent cholesterol stones by reducing cholesterol saturation in bile and improving bile flow. It’s typically used for several months after surgery or during the rapid weight-loss phase.

The other options don’t address this risk: antihistamines don’t influence bile composition, proton-pump inhibitors reduce stomach acid, NSAIDs are for pain and inflammation, and laxatives affect bowel movements rather than gallstone formation. Thus, the appropriate preventive prescription is ursodeoxycholic acid, not a PPI.