Celebrex

The active ingredient in Celebrex is celecoxib. Celecoxib is a COX-2 inhibitor meaning that it blocks an enzyme in the body called cyclooxygenase-2 or COX-2. This enzyme is needed to produce hormones called prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are often made in response to an injury or infection and can cause symptoms like swelling, redness, pain, inflammation, and fever.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Celebrex. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Celebrex:

• Typically, you take it by mouth once or twice daily. Use exactly as prescribed. Do not exceed the recommended dose or duration of use. I
• If you have trouble swallowing, capsules can be opened and contents can be sprinkled onto applesauce.
• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

The most common side effects of Celebrex seen in clinical trials as compared to placebo include:

• Stomach pain
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Heartburn
• Gas
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Dizziness
• Back pain
• Swelling

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Celebrex. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Signs of a hypersensitivity or anaphylactic reaction such as difficulty breathing or swelling of the face.
• Symptoms of liver disease such as right-sided stomach pain, nausea, fatigue, flu-like symptoms, or jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).
• Symptoms of anemia or low red blood cell count such as pallor of the skin, dizziness, fatigue, weakness, or cold extremities.
• Development of a serious drug reaction such as Stevens-Johnson Syndrome, a serious skin reaction that is characterized by a widespread skin rash and blisters with fever. If left untreated, it can be life-threatening.
• Kidney damage. Your risk is increased if you are taking certain blood pressure medications or if you have certain conditions such as kidney problems, liver problems, and heart failure.
• High potassium levels. Notify your healthcare provider right away if you have symptoms of high potassium, such as nausea, vomiting, muscle weakness, or tingling in your limbs.
• Heart failure and high blood pressure. Check your blood pressure regularly while taking this medication and call your healthcare provider if you notice any trouble breathing, fatigue, fluid retention, or sudden weight gain as these can be symptoms of heart failure.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Celebrex. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Celebrex, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including if you have:

• Liver problems
• Kidney problems
• Hypertension or high blood pressure
• Heart failure
• Aspirin-sensitive asthma

Boxed Warning

• Celebrex causes an increased risk of serious cardiovascular events. This risk is increased if you have heart disease or with long-term use or higher doses. Seek medical attention right away if you have symptoms of heart attack or stroke such as chest pain, shortness of breath, weakness, or slurring of speech.
• Celebrex causes an increased risk of serious gastrointestinal events. Seek medical attention right away if you have symptoms of stomach ulcers or perforations such as stomach pain, indigestion, black tarry stools, blood in bowel movements, or vomiting of blood. A prior history of stomach ulcers increases the risk for serious gastrointestinal events. Other risk factors include longer duration of use, smoking, use of alcohol, older age, and concomitant use of corticosteroids, antiplatelets, anticoagulants, or SSRIs.

Do not use Celebrex if you have:

• A known allergy to celecoxib or sulfonamides
• A history of asthma, hives, or other allergic reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs
• An upcoming coronary artery bypass graft surgery (CABG). Do not use before or after this surgery.

It takes a few hours for Celebrex to reach peak levels in the body which is when you can expect an effect. However, each person is different and some may not notice a difference until 24 to 48 hours after taking.

When Celebrex is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. To avoid drug interactions, make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking, including:

• ACE inhibitors
• Angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs)
• Beta-blockers
• Diuretics
• Digoxin
• Fluconazole
• Lithium
• Methotrexate
• Other NSAIDs such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen
• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
• Selective serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs)
• Warfarin

Celebrex or celecoxib capsules come in the following strengths:

• 50 mg
• 100 mg
• 200 mg
• 400 mg

Celebrex should be stored at room temperature away from moisture and heat and out of reach of children.

Celebrex is manufactured by the pharmaceutical company Pfizer.

Yes, there is a generic version of the brand name Celebrex available.

Consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing medications while taking Celebrex.

If used at about 20 weeks of pregnancy or after, Celebrex may cause harm to your unborn baby. Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.