Celebrex

Brand Names

Celebrex, Celecoxib

What is Celebrex

Celebrex (celecoxib) is a medicine that is used for treatment of pain and inflammation appearing due to osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Celebrex belongs to a group of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or COX-2 inhibitors. The inactive ingredients of the medication are croscarmellose sodium, edible inks, gelatin, lactose monohydrate, magnesium stearate, povidone and sodium lauryl sulfate. The medicine is available with a prescription.

Side effects of Celebrex

The medication can cause the following side effects:

• abdominal pain
• diarrhea
• dizziness
• drowsiness
• gas
• headache
• heartburn
• increased sensitivity to sunlight
• nausea
• ringing in the ears
• runny nose
• sinus pain
• skin rash
• sore throat

Indication

Celebrex is used to relieve the symptoms of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis in adults. During dental surgical procedures Celebrex is used to manage acute pain in adults. The medicine also helps to decrease the number of colon and rectum growths in patients with FAP (Familial Adenomatous Polyposis). It blocks a certain enzyme (COX-2) that causes pain and inflammation. Not like other NSAIDs Celebrex do not interfere with COX-1 which is very important enzyme in stomach protection. Celebrex reaches only the COX-2 enzyme.

Precautions

You should not take this medication if you have:

• heart disease, including congestive heart failure
• high blood pressure (hypertension)
• liver disease or liver failure
• kidney disease or kidney failure
• bleeding problems (or are taking blood-thinning medication)
• stomach ulcers, stomach bleeding, or a history of these problems
• any allergies to medicines, including sulfa drugs, aspirin or other nonsteroidal
• anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

Inform your doctor if you:

• are pregnant or thinking about becoming pregnant
• are breastfeeding
• drink alcohol frequently
• have recently had heart surgery

Dosage forms

Celebrex is available in capsules by 50, 100, 200 and 400 mg. The medicine should be kept at room temperature between 15-30 C (59-86 F). The dosage should be prescribed by your doctor.

The regular doses depend on the disease you have and may be:

• for the management of osteoarthritis, the dose usually is 100 mg twice a day or 200 mg as a single dose.
• for rheumatoid arthritis, the dose usually is 100 or 200 mg twice daily.
• for FAP, the recommended dose is 400 mg twice daily.