Celebrex (generic name celecoxib) is a prescription nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is used to treat mild to moderate pain and symptoms of arthritis, including inflammation, tenderness, swelling, stiffness and joint pain. This medication can also be used to treat acute pain and menstrual cramps. Celebrex can also be used to reduce the number of abnormal growths in the colon and rectum (which increases risk for cancer). The National Library of Medicine (NLM) reports that Celebrex works by stopping the production of a substance in the body that causes pain and inflammation.
Common Side Effects
Several side effects are more commonly reported by people taking Celebrex. The Mayo Clinic reports that these include fever, a rash on the skin, or swelling of the face, fingers or lower extremities. Gas, headache, heartburn and insomnia are also commonly reported. Sometimes side effects can mimic the symptoms of a cold, such as coughing, sneezing, sore throat and stuffy nose.
Less Common
The Mayo Clinic reports that there are many side effects that are not as common. These include pain in the arm, back, chest or jaw, chest tightness or congestion, confusion, chills, and bloody or black stools. Other less common side effects include burning, tingling, or stinging in the chest, skin or hands, arms, legs or feet.
Liver Disease
According to RxList.com, Celebrex may rarely cause liver disease. If you have any of the following symptoms of liver disease, stop taking this medication and consult your doctor immediately: yellow-colored eyes or skin, persistent stomach pain, unusual fatigue or dark-colored urine.
Internal/Gastrointestinal Bleeding
RxList notes that NSAIDs like Celebrex can cause an increased risk of serious internal bleeding in the digestive system. Ulcers and tears in the stomach or intestines are a common result. Symptoms of internal bleeding include black, tarry stools, vomit that looks like coffee grounds and abdominal pain. If you have any of these symptoms, contact medical services immediately. Elderly people, smokers, people who drink alcohol and those with generally poor health are at the greatest risk for this condition. Internal gastrointestinal bleeding can happen without any warning symptoms, and can be fatal.
Overdose
It is possible to overdose on Celebrex. According to the NLM, symptoms of overdose include extreme thirst, dizziness, drowsiness, severe and/or persistent headache, loss of consciousness, hives, rash, swelling of the face or extremities, lack of energy, vomiting, difficulty breathing or sudden decrease in urine output.
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