What kind of medication is Celebrex?

Celebrex is a NSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug). This medication is available as oral tablets (50mg, 100mg, 200mg and 400mg)

What is Celebrex used for?

Celebrex treats inflammation and pain associated with ankylosing spondylitis, arthritis, and menstrual cramps. Celebrex is also used for other conditions not mentioned in this guide.

Dose

Celebrex must be used as prescribed. Never make changes to the dosage without consulting with a doctor. To avoid stomach irritations, take Celebrex with food.

Missed Dose

A missed dose can be taken as long as a suitable length of time passes before the time of the next dose. Do not take a double dose.

Important information about this medication

Celebrex should not be taken by people who are allergic to Celebrex. This medication should not be used by people who have experienced an allergic reaction to other NSAID medications.

Celebrex can increase the risk of circulatory or heart conditions – these include stroke or heart attack. This medication should not be used prior or after heart surgery. Get emergency help if you experience extreme weakness, chest pain, slurred speech, shortness of breath, or vision problems.

Celebrex can cause intestinal or stomach problems.

Prior to taking Celebrex, you must provide your doctor with details of your medical history. This must include medications that you have used, or are using, as well as any dietary supplements such as vitamins and herbal medications.

Your doctor will also need to know the following: if you have a history of stroke or heart attack, congestive heart failure, or if you have suffered a blood clot, or if you have a history of stomach ulcers, if you have high blood pressure, kidney disorders, polyps in the nose, asthma, or a clotting or bleeding disorder.

Celebrex can harm a fetus. Pregnant women should not use this medication during the third trimester of pregnancy. The active ingredient in this medication is secreted into breast milk which means that nursing mothers should use Celebrex with extreme caution, and only after discussing the risks with a doctor. Any woman who becomes pregnant while using this medication must immediately inform a doctor.

Celebrex should not be given to children under the age of two years without the approval of a doctor.

What are the side-effects of this medication?

Symptoms of an allergic reaction include breathing problems, swelling (tongue, throat, face or lips), or hives. If any of these symptoms appear, call for medical assistance.

Symptoms of serious side-effects include shortness of breath, weakness, chest pain, vision or speech problems, dark or bloody stools, swelling, rapid weight gain, coughing up vomit or blood that resembles coffee granules, decreased urination, stomach pain, nausea, no appetite, light-colored stools, dark urine, low fever, jaundice, sore throat, fever, headache, blisters or peeling of the skin, severe skin rash, weakness of the muscles, numbness or tingling, stiff neck, chills, sensitivity to light, or convulsions.

Less serious side-effects that usually occur in the early stages of treatment with this medication are: mild heartburn, constipation or diarrhea, gas, bloating, nervousness, itching of the skin, mild rash, vision problems, or ringing in the ears.

This medication may cause other side-effects not mentioned above. Any uncomfortable symptoms that persist should be reported to your doctor.

If overdose is suspected

Symptoms of overdose may include stomach pain, vomiting or nausea, confusion, dark or bloody stools, drowsiness, shallow breathing, fainting, coughing up blood, or coma.

Storage instructions

Celebrex should be stored in a dry, cool place – away from moisture or direct sunlight.