Celebrex, marketed by Pfizer, is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used primarily to combat the pain of various forms of arthritis. These include juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. It also may be prescribed for menstrual pain, intestinal polyps, ankylosing spondylitis and for pain from orthopedic or dental operations. Its generic name is celecoxib, but it is not available as a generic medication in the United States since Pfizer still holds exclusive patent rights.
Heart Risks
Because of acknowledged fabricated clinical study results by Scott S. Reuben, the risks of heart attacks that may be produced by ingesting Celebrex were not revealed originally. A similar NSAID product, Vioxx, was pulled from the market in 2004 by its manufacturer, Merck. The U.S. Food & Drug Administration requires Celebrex to carry a warning for gastrointestinal and cardiovascular risks. The American Heart Association also warns those patients with heart disease and those at risk for developing it to refrain from use of Celebrex unless other medications fail.
Strokes
Strokes result from a stoppage of blood flow to the brain. The risks of Celebrex include the possibility of causing strokes because the drug has negative cardiovascular effects. Celebrex, like Vioxx, is a COX-2 inhibitor. The FDA issued a Public Health Advisory for Celebrex and other COX-2 inhibitors in December 2004.
Common Side Effects
Side effects that may occur with the use of Celebrex range from common ailments that may vanish after your body gets used to the medication to those that require medical advice or attention. Side effects that may occur include the following: hives, loss of hair, depression, swallowing difficulties, anxiety, abdominal pain, congestion, lowered appetite, blurry vision, constipation, infections, inflammation, sexual intercourse pain, drowsiness, genital itching, hearing loss, rapid heartbeat, difficulty breathing, bleeding gums, chills, fever, decreased senses of taste or smell, lip ulcers, diarrhea with blood, cramps and swelling.
Serious Side Effects
Other side effects that require a physician's attention are more serious and may not go away with continued use of Celebrex. These include the following: a breast growth, earaches, chest pain, sneezing, a skin rash, confusion, burning feeling in the skin, pain in the jaw, arms or back, swelling in the legs, feet, face or fingers, irregular heartbeat, tingling, nausea, fainting and increases in urination, thirst or hunger. High blood pressure also is a sign you may need medical attention.
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