Celebrex

celecoxib

Brand(s):

• Cobix

Manufacturer:

• Cipla Limited

Disease(s):

• Rheumatoid Arthritis / Osteoarthritis / Ankylosing Spondylitis / Juvenile Arthritis / Polyposis

Known as:

• Celebrex

Celecoxib Capsules

What is Celecoxib?

Celecoxib is a COX-2 inhibitor, a type of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It works by reducing swelling and relieving pain. Doctors often prescribe it for various joint and muscle conditions like arthritis. It can also be helpful for bone pain, dental pain, headaches, menstrual cramps, and in some cases, to reduce the number of colon or rectal polyps.

Important Information for Your Doctor

Before starting celecoxib, be sure to tell your doctor about any of the following:

• Asthma
• Recent coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery (within the past 2 weeks)
• Alcohol consumption exceeding 3 drinks daily
• Heart disease or circulatory problems such as heart failure or leg edema (fluid retention)
• High blood pressure
• Kidney disease
• Liver disease
• History of stomach bleeding or ulcers
• Allergies to celecoxib, sulfa drugs, aspirin, other NSAIDs, or any other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• Pregnancy or plans to become pregnant
• Breastfeeding

How to Take Celecoxib

Take celecoxib by mouth with a full glass of water. If it upsets your stomach, or if you're taking a 400 mg dose, take it with food. It's a good idea to remain upright for at least 10 minutes after taking the medication. For consistent levels in your blood, take it at the same time each day. Never exceed the prescribed dosage. Long-term use increases the risk of heart attack or stroke.

Parents should consult their pediatrician before giving celecoxib to children; special considerations may be necessary.

Overdose: In case of an overdose, immediately contact a poison control center or emergency room.

Personal Use Only: This medication is for your use only; do not share it with others.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.

Potential Drug Interactions

Do not take celecoxib with the following medications:

• Cidofovir
• Methotrexate
• Other NSAIDs (like ibuprofen or naproxen)
• Pemetrexed

Celecoxib may also interact with:

• Alcohol
• Aspirin and aspirin-like drugs
• Diuretics
• Fluconazole
• Lithium
• High blood pressure medications
• Steroid medications (like prednisone or cortisone)
• Warfarin

This isn't an exhaustive list of all possible interactions. Provide your doctor with a complete list of all medications, herbs, over-the-counter drugs, and dietary supplements you are using. Also, inform them about your alcohol and tobacco use, or any use of illegal drugs.

Things to Watch For

If your pain persists, contact your doctor. Do not start taking other pain relievers without consulting your doctor first. Celecoxib does not prevent heart attacks or strokes; in fact, it might slightly increase the risk, especially with prolonged use or in individuals with pre-existing heart conditions. Discuss this with your doctor, particularly if you're already taking aspirin for heart health.

Avoid taking ibuprofen, naproxen, or similar medications with celecoxib, as this increases the risk of stomach upset, nausea, or ulcers. Many over-the-counter medications shouldn't be combined with celecoxib.

Celecoxib can cause stomach and intestinal ulcers and bleeding at any point during treatment. This can occur without warning and may be life-threatening.

Possible Side Effects

Report these side effects to your doctor immediately:

• Allergic reactions (skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue)
• Black or bloody stools, blood in urine or vomit
• Blurred vision
• Breathing problems
• Chest pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• Problems with balance, speech, or walking
• Skin redness, blistering, peeling, or loosening (including inside the mouth)
• Unexplained weight gain or swelling
• Unusual weakness or fatigue
• Yellowing of the eyes or skin (jaundice)

Side effects that usually don't require immediate medical attention (but tell your doctor if they persist or bother you):

• Constipation or diarrhea
• Dizziness
• Gas or heartburn
• Upset stomach

This isn't a complete list of all possible side effects.

Storage

Keep out of the reach of children. Store at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C (59°F and 86°F). Keep the container tightly closed. Discard any unused medication after the expiration date.