Celebrex is the brand name of celecoxib, a prescription medicine belonging to a class of medications called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs. According to Medline Plus, Celebrex works to block the production of a substance that causes pain, and is used to decrease pain, swelling, stiffness and inflammation associated with medical conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis. There are potentially serious side effects associated with Celebrex.
Uses
Celebrex treats a range of conditions that cause inflammation and pain, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. The medication also might help ease the pain of other conditions, such as during menstruation.
Availability and Dosage
Celebrex is available in capsule dosages of 50 mg, 100 mg, 200 mg and 400 mg, according to RxList.com. A physician might prescribe taking one dose once per day or divide a dose into two smaller dosages to be taken in the morning and at night.
Administration
Celebrex is taken orally, typically with a snack or milk to help coat the stomach and reduce upset associated with the medication. People who have difficulty swallowing a capsule can open the medication and sprinkle it on food such as applesauce or mix it with water. The capsule should not be chewed.
Side Effects
As with all medications, Celebrex might cause side effects, including gastrointestinal distress such as nausea, heartburn and diarrhea. A rash with itching, blurred vision and a ringing in the ears also might occur. Serious side effects include chest pain, blistering and peeling skin, jaundice and shortness of breath. People experiencing bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract might have symptoms such as vomit that resembles coffee grounds or black, tarry-looking stools. Side effects should be reported to the prescribing physician.
Contraindications
Drinking alcohol while taking Celebrex can increase the risk of internal bleeding in the stomach, according to Drugs.com. People taking Celebrex should not take other NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen or naproxen. Celebrex might make the skin more susceptible to sunburns when exposed to sunlight or tanning beds. People with a bleeding disorder or liver problems should not take Celebrex.
Warnings
Taking Celebrex might increase the risk of developing blood clots, a heart attack or a stroke. The longer a person takes the medication, the greater the risk of serious complications, according to RxList.com. Some people might experience gastrointestinal bleeding. A bleeding ulcer in the stomach or a perforation in the intestinal tract can be fatal without emergency treatment.
