What is celecoxib and how does it work. What are the common uses of celecoxib. What are the potential side effects and precautions associated with celecoxib. How does celecoxib interact with other medications.

Understanding Celecoxib: A Powerful NSAID for Pain and Inflammation

Celecoxib is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that belongs to a specific class called COX-2 inhibitors. It’s available as both a generic medication and under the brand name Celebrex. This oral capsule is primarily used to treat various forms of arthritis, short-term pain, and menstrual cramps. By blocking the cyclooxygenase (COX) enzyme, celecoxib reduces the production of chemicals that cause pain and inflammation in the body.

Key Uses of Celecoxib

• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Osteoarthritis
• Ankylosing spondylitis
• Acute pain management
• Menstrual cramps

Celecoxib’s effectiveness in managing these conditions has made it a popular choice among healthcare providers. However, its use comes with important considerations and potential risks that patients should be aware of.

The Mechanism of Action: How Celecoxib Alleviates Pain and Inflammation

To understand how celecoxib works, it’s essential to delve into its mechanism of action. Celecoxib selectively inhibits COX-2, an enzyme responsible for producing prostaglandins that contribute to pain and inflammation. By targeting COX-2 specifically, celecoxib aims to provide pain relief with potentially fewer gastrointestinal side effects compared to traditional NSAIDs that inhibit both COX-1 and COX-2.

This selective inhibition is what sets celecoxib apart from other NSAIDs. But how effective is this targeted approach? Studies have shown that celecoxib can provide significant pain relief for patients with chronic conditions like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Its efficacy in managing acute pain, such as that associated with dental procedures or menstrual cramps, has also been well-documented.

Important Boxed Warnings: Understanding the Risks

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued several boxed warnings for celecoxib, highlighting potential serious risks associated with its use. These warnings serve as critical information for both healthcare providers and patients.

Cardiovascular Risks

Can celecoxib increase the risk of heart problems? Yes, like other NSAIDs, celecoxib can increase the risk of heart attack, heart failure, and stroke. This risk may be higher with prolonged use or at higher doses. Patients with existing cardiovascular disease or risk factors should discuss these risks with their healthcare provider before starting celecoxib.

Gastrointestinal Risks

Does celecoxib pose risks to the digestive system? Indeed, celecoxib can increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding, ulcers, and perforations. These complications can occur without warning and may be fatal, particularly in older adults. Patients with a history of peptic ulcer disease or gastrointestinal bleeding are at higher risk.

Surgical Considerations

Is it safe to use celecoxib around the time of heart surgery? No, celecoxib should not be used for pain management before or after coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery. Its use in this context has been associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular events.

Common Side Effects: What to Expect When Taking Celecoxib

While celecoxib can be effective in managing pain and inflammation, it’s not without potential side effects. Understanding these can help patients make informed decisions and recognize when to seek medical attention.

Gastrointestinal Effects

• Stomach pain
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Gas
• Heartburn
• Nausea
• Vomiting

Neurological Effects

• Dizziness
• Headache

Other Common Effects

• Respiratory tract infection

These side effects are generally mild and may resolve on their own as the body adjusts to the medication. However, if they persist or worsen, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider.

Serious Side Effects: Recognizing When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention

While less common, celecoxib can cause serious side effects that require immediate medical attention. Recognizing the signs of these potential complications is crucial for patient safety.

Cardiovascular Complications

• Chest pain or signs of a heart attack
• Symptoms of stroke (sudden weakness, slurred speech, vision changes)
• High blood pressure
• Edema (swelling in extremities, unusual weight gain)

Gastrointestinal Emergencies

• Signs of stomach or intestinal bleeding (blood in urine, vomit, or stools; black and sticky stools)

Skin Reactions

• Severe rash or blistering
• Signs of Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis

Other Serious Concerns

• Allergic reactions (itching, hives, swelling of face or throat)
• Liver problems (yellowing of skin or eyes)
• Asthma attacks

Patients experiencing any of these symptoms should seek immediate medical attention. Early recognition and intervention can prevent potentially life-threatening complications.

Drug Interactions: Navigating Celecoxib’s Impact on Other Medications

Celecoxib can interact with various medications, herbs, and vitamins, potentially altering their effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects. Understanding these interactions is crucial for safe and effective treatment.

Common Drug Interactions

• Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin): May increase bleeding risk
• Antihypertensives: May reduce blood pressure-lowering effects
• Aspirin: May increase gastrointestinal side effects
• Lithium: May increase lithium levels in the blood
• Fluconazole: May increase celecoxib levels in the body

How can patients ensure safe medication use? It’s essential to inform healthcare providers about all medications, supplements, and herbal products being taken. This allows for proper management and adjustment of treatment plans to minimize risks and optimize benefits.

Special Populations: Considerations for Specific Patient Groups

Certain groups of patients may require special considerations when using celecoxib. Understanding these specific needs can help ensure safe and effective use of the medication.

Elderly Patients

Are older adults at higher risk of side effects from celecoxib? Yes, patients aged 65 and older may be more susceptible to gastrointestinal complications and cardiovascular risks. Lower starting doses and careful monitoring may be necessary for this population.

Patients with Cardiovascular Risk Factors

How does celecoxib affect those with heart disease? Patients with existing cardiovascular disease or risk factors should use celecoxib with caution. Regular monitoring of blood pressure and cardiovascular health is crucial for these individuals.

Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women

Is celecoxib safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding? The use of celecoxib during pregnancy, especially in the third trimester, may pose risks to the fetus. It’s also not recommended during breastfeeding due to potential risks to the infant. Women who are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding should discuss alternative pain management options with their healthcare provider.

Patients with Renal or Hepatic Impairment

How does kidney or liver function affect celecoxib use? Patients with reduced kidney or liver function may require dose adjustments or more careful monitoring when using celecoxib. These organs play crucial roles in processing and eliminating the drug from the body.

By considering these special populations, healthcare providers can tailor treatment plans to maximize benefits while minimizing risks for each individual patient.

Dosage and Administration: Optimizing Celecoxib Treatment

Proper dosing and administration of celecoxib are crucial for achieving optimal therapeutic effects while minimizing the risk of adverse events. The appropriate dose can vary depending on the condition being treated, the patient’s age, and other individual factors.

General Dosing Guidelines

• Osteoarthritis: 200 mg once daily or 100 mg twice daily
• Rheumatoid Arthritis: 100 to 200 mg twice daily
• Ankylosing Spondylitis: 200 mg once daily or 100 mg twice daily
• Acute Pain: 400 mg initially, followed by 200 mg if needed on the first day, then 200 mg twice daily as needed
• Primary Dysmenorrhea: 400 mg initially, followed by 200 mg if needed on the first day, then 200 mg twice daily as needed

How should celecoxib be taken? Celecoxib capsules can be taken with or without food. However, taking them with food may help reduce stomach upset. It’s important to swallow the capsules whole and not to break, crush, or chew them.

Dosage Adjustments

In some cases, dosage adjustments may be necessary:

• Patients with hepatic impairment: Lower doses may be recommended
• CYP2C9 poor metabolizers: Lower doses may be needed due to reduced drug metabolism
• Elderly patients: Starting at the lowest recommended dose may be advisable

What’s the maximum recommended daily dose? The maximum recommended daily dose of celecoxib is 400 mg. Exceeding this dose may increase the risk of adverse effects without providing additional therapeutic benefits.

Missed Dose Instructions

If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered. However, if it’s close to the time for the next scheduled dose, the missed dose should be skipped, and the regular dosing schedule resumed. Doubling up on doses to make up for a missed one should be avoided.

Adhering to these dosage guidelines and consulting with a healthcare provider for personalized recommendations can help ensure safe and effective use of celecoxib.

Long-term Use and Monitoring: Ensuring Continued Safety and Efficacy

While celecoxib can be effective for managing chronic pain conditions, long-term use requires careful consideration and monitoring to ensure ongoing safety and efficacy.

Regular Health Assessments

What should be monitored during long-term celecoxib use? Patients on long-term celecoxib therapy should undergo regular health assessments, including:

• Cardiovascular health checks
• Blood pressure monitoring
• Kidney function tests
• Liver function tests
• Gastrointestinal health evaluation

These assessments help identify any potential complications early, allowing for timely interventions or treatment adjustments.

Minimizing Risks

How can the risks associated with long-term use be minimized? To reduce the potential for adverse effects, healthcare providers may recommend:

• Using the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration necessary
• Periodic re-evaluation of the need for continued treatment
• Combining celecoxib with non-pharmacological pain management strategies
• Implementing protective measures, such as using gastroprotective agents in high-risk patients

Patient Education and Self-monitoring

Empowering patients with knowledge about potential side effects and warning signs is crucial for safe long-term use. Patients should be educated on:

• Recognizing signs of cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, or allergic complications
• The importance of reporting any new symptoms or concerns promptly
• Understanding the need for regular follow-up appointments and health checks

By implementing these monitoring strategies and fostering open communication between patients and healthcare providers, the benefits of celecoxib can be maximized while minimizing potential risks associated with long-term use.

Alternative Treatments: Exploring Options Beyond Celecoxib

While celecoxib is effective for many patients, it’s not suitable for everyone. Understanding alternative treatment options can help patients and healthcare providers make informed decisions about pain management strategies.

Other NSAIDs

What are some alternatives to celecoxib within the NSAID class? Other NSAIDs that may be considered include:

• Ibuprofen
• Naproxen
• Diclofenac
• Meloxicam

Each of these medications has its own risk-benefit profile and may be more suitable for certain patients based on their individual health status and risk factors.

Non-NSAID Medications

For patients who cannot take NSAIDs or prefer alternative options, other medication classes may be considered:

• Acetaminophen (paracetamol) for pain relief
• Topical analgesics for localized pain
• Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) for certain types of arthritis
• Corticosteroids for severe inflammation

Non-pharmacological Approaches

What non-drug options are available for pain management? Several non-pharmacological approaches can be effective, either alone or in combination with medications:

• Physical therapy and exercise programs
• Weight management for joint health
• Acupuncture
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy for pain management
• Heat and cold therapy
• Massage and manual therapies

These alternative treatments offer additional options for patients who may not be able to use celecoxib or who prefer a more holistic approach to pain management. Discussing these alternatives with a healthcare provider can help determine the most appropriate treatment plan for each individual’s needs and circumstances.

In conclusion, while celecoxib remains an important tool in the management of pain and inflammation, it’s crucial to approach its use with a comprehensive understanding of its benefits, risks, and alternatives. By carefully considering individual patient factors, monitoring for potential side effects, and exploring all available treatment options, healthcare providers can help ensure the safest and most effective pain management strategies for their patients.

Side Effects, Dosage, Uses & More

This drug has boxed warnings. These are the most serious warnings from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Boxed warnings alert doctors and patients about drug effects that may be dangerous.

• Heart risks warning: This drug is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). All NSAIDs can increase your risk of heart attack, heart failure, or stroke. This risk increases the longer you use NSAIDs. It also increases if you use high doses. Your risk may be higher if you have risk factors for heart disease, such as high blood pressure. Talk to your doctor before taking celecoxib if you have heart disease.
• Coronary artery bypass graft warning: Don’t take celecoxib if you will have or have recently had a coronary artery bypass graft, or heart surgery to improve blood flow to your heart. Your risk of heart attack or stroke increases if you take celecoxib to treat pain before or after your surgery.
• Stomach problems warning: Don’t use celecoxib if you have current stomach bleeding or a history of stomach ulcers. Taking celecoxib increases your risk of stomach bleeding, ulcers, or small holes in the lining of your stomach or intestines, which can be fatal. These may occur at any time without any warning symptoms. If you’re 65 years or older, you’re at higher risk of these problems.
• Serious skin reactions warning: Taking this drug may cause serious and sometimes deadly skin reactions, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN). Get immediate medical help if you have signs of red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin; red or irritated eyes; or sores in your mouth, throat, nose, or eyes.

1. Celecoxib oral capsule is available as a generic drug and a brand-name drug. Brand name: Celebrex.
2. Celecoxib only comes as a capsule you take by mouth.
3. This drug is used to treat various forms of arthritis, short-term pain, and menstrual cramps.

Celecoxib oral capsule is a prescription drug that’s available as the brand-name drug Celebrex. It’s also available in a generic version. Generic drugs usually cost less. In some cases, they may not be available in every strength or form as the brand-name version.

Celecoxib only comes as a capsule you take by mouth.

Why it’s used

This drug is used to treat:

• rheumatoid arthritis
• osteoarthritis
• ankylosing spondylitis
• short-term pain
• menstrual cramps

How it works

This drug belongs to a class of drugs called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). A class of drugs is a group of medications that work in a similar way. These drugs are often used to treat similar conditions.

NSAIDs block an enzyme called cyclooxygenase (COX). COX works in your body to produce chemicals that cause pain and inflammation. By blocking COX, NSAIDs like this drug stop these chemicals from forming. This, in turn, reduces pain and inflammation.

Celecoxib oral capsule does not cause drowsiness, but it can cause other side effects.

More common side effects

The more common side effects that can occur with celecoxib oral capsule include:

• stomach pain
• constipation
• diarrhea
• gas
• heartburn
• nausea
• vomiting
• dizziness
• headache
• respiratory tract infection

If these effects are mild, they may go away within a few days or a couple of weeks. If they’re more severe or don’t go away, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.

Serious side effects

Call your doctor right away if you have serious side effects. Call 911 if your symptoms feel life-threatening or if you think you’re having a medical emergency. Serious side effects and their symptoms can include the following:

• Chest pain or heart attack
• Stroke. Symptoms may include:
  • sudden weakness in one part or side of your body
  • slurred speech
  • drooping on one side of your face
  • blurred vision
  • sudden dizziness or trouble walking
  • very severe headache with no other cause
• High blood pressure
• Edema. Symptoms may include:
  • swelling in your arms and legs, hands and feet
  • unusual weight gain
• Bleeding and ulcers in your stomach and intestine. Symptoms may include:
  • blood in urine
  • vomiting
  • bloody stools
  • black and sticky stools
• Skin reactions, including rash or blisters
• Allergic reactions. Symptoms may include:
  • itching and hives
  • swelling of your face or throat
• Liver problems. Symptoms may include yellowing of your skin or whites of your eyes.
• Asthma attacks

Disclaimer: Our goal is to provide you with the most relevant and current information. However, because drugs affect each person differently, we cannot guarantee that this information includes all possible side effects. This information is not a substitute for medical advice. Always discuss possible side effects with a healthcare provider who knows your medical history.

Celecoxib oral capsule may interact with other medications, herbs, or vitamins you might be taking. That’s why your doctor should manage all of your medications carefully. If you’re curious about how this drug might interact with something else you’re taking, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.

Note: You can reduce your chances of drug interactions by having all of your prescriptions filled at the same pharmacy. That way, a pharmacist can check for possible drug interactions.

Examples of drugs that can cause interactions with celecoxib are listed below.

Blood thinner, anticoagulant

Combining warfarin and celecoxib raises your risk of bleeding.

Mental health drug

Celecoxib may increase the levels of lithium in your body. Signs of lithium toxicity include slurred speech and tremors.

Blood pressure drugs

Celecoxib may reduce the blood pressure-lowering effects of certain blood pressure drugs. Examples of these drugs include:

• antiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors
• angiotensin II receptor blockers
• diuretics

Transplant drug

Combining cyclosporine and celecoxib raises your risk of kidney damage.

Cancer drugs

Taking celecoxib with certain drugs used to treat cancer raises the risk of side effects from those drugs. These side effects include kidney damage and a decrease in cells that help you fight infection. Examples of these drugs include:

• methotrexate
• pemetrexed

Other NSAIDs

Celecoxib is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). Combining it with other NSAIDs increases your risk of side effects. Examples of other NSAIDs include:

• ibuprofen
• naproxen
• aspirin

Corticosteroids

Combining celecoxib with corticosteroids such as prednisone raises your risk of stomach bleeding.

Digoxin

If you take celecoxib with digoxin, the levels of digoxin in your body may be increased. If you take these drugs together, your doctor may monitor your digoxin levels.

Antidepressants

Combining celecoxib with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) increases your risk of stomach bleeding. Examples of SSRIs and SNRIs include:

• citalopram (Celexa)
• paroxetine (Paxil)
• sertraline (Zoloft)
• venlafaxine (Effexor)
• duloxetine (Cymbalta)

Disclaimer: Our goal is to provide you with the most relevant and current information. However, because drugs interact differently in each person, we cannot guarantee that this information includes all possible interactions. This information is not a substitute for medical advice. Always speak with your healthcare provider about possible interactions with all prescription drugs, vitamins, herbs and supplements, and over-the-counter drugs that you are taking.

This drug comes with several warnings.

High blood pressure warning

This drug may cause you to develop high blood pressure or may worsen high blood pressure. Take this medication with caution if you have high blood pressure. Check your blood pressure before and while taking this drug.

Asthma warning

Take this drug with caution if you have asthma. It may cause narrowing in your airways, which could lead to death. If your asthma worsens while you take this drug, get immediate medical attention.

Allergy warning

This drug can cause a severe allergic reaction. Symptoms may include:

• trouble breathing
• swelling of your throat or tongue
• hives

If you have an allergic reaction, call your doctor or local poison control center right away. If your symptoms are severe, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. Don’t take this drug again if you’ve ever had an allergic reaction to it. Taking it again could be fatal (cause death).

Alcohol interaction warning

Combining alcohol with celecoxib raises your risk of stomach bleeding.

Smoking warning

Smoking while taking celecoxib raises your risk of stomach bleeding.

Warnings for people with certain health conditions

For people with heart disease: If you have a history of heart disease or are at risk for heart disease, you shouldn’t take celecoxib. It raises your risk of blood clots, heart attack, and stroke.

For people with stomach problems: If you have a history of stomach bleeding or ulcers, you’re at greater risk of having another ulcer or bleeding event, which may be fatal.

For people with sulfonamide “sulfa” allergy: If you’re allergic to medications that contain sulfonamide, you shouldn’t take this drug. This drug contains sulfonamide. You may have serious skin reactions. Report any skin rash to your doctor right away.

Warnings for other groups

For pregnant women: Tell your doctor if you’re pregnant or plan to become pregnant. Research in animals has shown adverse effects to the fetus when the mother takes the drug. This drug should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.

Call your doctor right away if you become pregnant while taking this drug.

For women who are breastfeeding: This drug has been shown to pass through breast milk. You and your doctor should decide if you’ll take this drug or breastfeed.

For seniors: This drug has been studied in a small number of people older than 65 years. If you’re 65 years or older, you may have increased risk of stomach problems and kidney failure that may be fatal.

For children: This drug hasn’t been studied in people younger than 2 years.

This dosage information is for celecoxib oral capsule. All possible dosages and forms may not be included here. Your dose, form, and how often you take it will depend on:

• your age
• the condition being treated
• how severe your condition is
• other medical conditions you have
• how you react to the first dose

Forms and strengths

Generic: Celecoxib

• Form: oral capsule
• Strengths: 50 mg, 100 mg, 200 mg, and 400 mg

Brand: Celebrex

• Form: oral capsule
• Strengths: 50 mg, 100 mg, 200 mg, and 400 mg

Dosage for osteoarthritis

Adult dosage (ages 18 years and older)

The typical dosage is 200 mg taken once per day, or 100 mg taken twice per day in evenly spaced doses.

Child dosage (ages 0 to 17 years)

A safe and effective dosage hasn’t been established for this age group.

Dosage for rheumatoid arthritis

Adult dosage (ages 18 years and older)

The typical dosage is 100–200 mg taken twice per day in evenly spaced doses.

Child dosage (ages 2 to 17 years), for juvenile rheumatoid arthritis

• For children who weigh 22–55 pounds (10–25 kg), the typical dosage is 50 mg taken twice per day in evenly spaced doses.
• For children who weigh more than 55 pounds (25 kg), the typical dosage is 100 mg taken twice per day in evenly spaced doses.

Child dosage (ages 0 to 1 years)

Dosage hasn’t been established for children younger than 2 years.

Dosage for ankylosing spondylitis

Adult dosage (ages 18 years and older)

• The typical dosage is 200 mg taken once per day or 100 mg taken twice per day in evenly spaced doses.
• If celecoxib isn’t working after 6 weeks, your doctor may try 400 mg per day (single or divided doses).

Child dosage (ages 0 to 17 years)

A safe and effective dosage hasn’t been established for this age group.

Dosage for short-term pain

Adult dosage (ages 18 years and older)

• The typical dosage is 400 mg for the first dose, followed by a 200-mg dose about 8–12 hours later if needed.
• On following days, the typical dosage is 200 mg taken twice per day as needed.

Child dosage (ages 0 to 17 years)

A safe and effective dosage hasn’t been established for this age group.

Dosage for menstrual cramps

Adult dosage (ages 18 years and older)

• The typical dosage is 400 mg for the first dose followed by a 200-mg dose about 8–12 hours later if needed.
• On following days, the typical dosage is 200 mg taken twice per day as needed.

Child dosage (ages 0 to 17 years)

A safe and effective dosage hasn’t been established for this age group.

Special considerations

People with liver disease: Having liver disease may reduce your ability to clear this drug from your body, which could lead to more side effects. If you have moderate liver disease, your daily dose of celecoxib may be reduced by half. If you have severe liver disease, you shouldn’t take this medication.

Disclaimer: Our goal is to provide you with the most relevant and current information. However, because drugs affect each person differently, we cannot guarantee that this list includes all possible dosages. This information is not a substitute for medical advice. Always speak with your doctor or pharmacist about dosages that are right for you.

Celecoxib oral capsule may be used for short-term or long-term treatment, depending on your condition. This drug has risks if you don’t take as prescribed by your doctor.

If you stop or miss doses: If you stop taking this drug, miss doses, or don’t take it on schedule, you may experience more pain caused by your condition.

If you take too much: Taking too much increases your risk of experiencing side effects.

What to do if you miss a dose: If you miss your dose, take it as soon as you can. However, if it’s just a few hours until your next dose, skip the missed dose. Never try to catch up by taking two doses at once. This could result in toxic side effects.

How to tell if the drug is working: You may be able to tell this drug is working if you experience less pain.

Keep these considerations in mind if your doctor prescribes celecoxib oral capsule for you.

General

• Whether you should take this drug with food depends on your dosage. If you take 400 mg of celecoxib twice per day, you should take it with food for better drug absorption. If you take up to 200 mg celecoxib twice per day, you can take it with or without food.
• You can open the capsule if you need to.
• If you have trouble swallowing the capsule, you can open it and sprinkle the contents onto a level teaspoon of cool or room-temperature applesauce. Eat the applesauce immediately along with some water.

Storage

• Store at room temperature between 68°F and 77°F (20°C and 25°C). From time to time, you can store it at temperatures between 59°F and 86°F (15°C and 30°C).
• Keep this drug away from light.
• Don’t store this medication in moist or damp areas, such as bathrooms.

Refills

A prescription for this medication is not refillable. You or your pharmacy will have to contact your doctor for a new prescription if you need this medication refilled.

Travel

When traveling with your medication:

• Always carry your medication with you. When flying, never put it into a checked bag. Keep it in your carry-on bag.
• Don’t worry about airport X-ray machines. They can’t hurt your medication.
• You may need to show airport staff the pharmacy label for your medication. Always carry the original prescription-labeled box with you.
• Don’t put this medication in your car’s glove compartment or leave it in the car. Be sure to avoid doing this when the weather is very hot or very cold.

Clinical monitoring

Your doctor will check your blood pressure before and during treatment with celecoxib. Your doctor may also do blood tests to check how well your liver and kidneys are functioning during treatment.

Sun sensitivity

You may be more sensitive to sunlight if you take celecoxib. Protect yourself from the sun:

• Wear sun-protective clothing.
• Use sunscreen—SPF 15 or higher.
• Limit your time in direct sunlight.
• Avoid tanning beds.

Insurance

Many insurance companies require a prior authorization for this drug. This means your doctor will need to get approval from your insurance company before your insurance company will pay for the prescription.

There are other drugs available to treat your condition. Some may be more suitable for you than others. Talk to your doctor about possible alternatives.

Disclaimer: Healthline has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up-to-date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or other healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.

What is Celebrex?

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By Dr. Ananya Mandal, MDReviewed by Sally Robertson, B.Sc.

Celebrex (celecoxib) is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to relieve pain, swelling and joint stiffness in conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, ankylosing spondylitis and juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. In the case of tissue trauma such as muscle or joint injury or after surgery, celecoxib may be used to provide short-term relief.

Celecoxib is a member of the drug class Coxib, short for Cox-2 inhibitors, which interfere with the body’s inflammatory processes. Several conditions contraindicate the use of celecoxib and this agent should not be taken without a prescription. Examples of groups of patients who cannot take celecoxib include:

• Pregnant and breastfeeding mothers
• Those at risk of heart attack or stroke
• Individuals with liver or kidney disease
• People with high blood pressure, or high cholesterol,
• Diabetic individuals
• People who are allergic to NSAIDs or sulphur containing drugs.
• Those with Liver disease
• Those with kidney disorders
• Those with diabetes
• Those with high blood pressure
• Alcoholics
• Smokers
• Patients with severe infection

Dose

The usual recommended dose for osteoarthritis and ankylosing spondylitis is 200 mg once daily or divided into two 100 mg daily doses. For period pain or post-surgery or injury pain, the recommended dose is a single dose of 400 mg on the first day and 200 mg twice daily as needed on the following days.

Some of the common side effects of celecoxib include:

• Abdominal bloating and flatulence
• Diarrhea
• Stomach pain
• Dizziness
• Swelling of ankles, feet and hands
• Sore throat, fever, chills and flu-like symptoms
• Rash and itchy spots
• Anemia
• Severe allergies or anaphylactic shock

Sources

• http://www.medsafe.govt.nz/profs/datasheet/c/celebrexcap. pdf
• https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/
• www.medicines.org.uk/…/
• www.nhs.uk/…/MedicineOverview.aspx
• https://www.fda.gov/

Further Reading

• All Celebrex Content
• Celebrex (Celecoxib) Pharmacology
• Celecoxib History
• Celebrex (Celecoxib) and Cancer
• Celebrex (Celecoxib) Side Effects

Last Updated: Jun 18, 2023

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No cardiovascular safety concerns for Celebrex

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