Celebrex (celecoxib) is a non-steriodal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) categorized as a Cox II inhibitor. Celebrex is typically prescribed for patients suffering from osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, acute pain and painful menstruation. The side effects from Celebrex should be monitored closely, and if patients have questions regarding side effects, they are advised to discuss them with their pharmacist or doctor.
Cardiovascular Side Effects
Increased risks of cardiovascular compromise, stroke or formation of blood clots are the most serious cardiovascular side effects possible with Celebrex therapy. Other side effects include hypertension (high blood pressure) and peripheral edema (swelling of the hands and lower legs and feet). A person taking Celebrex may suddenly develop weakness on one side of the body, inability to speak, a racing heart or pain in the back of the legs while walking; in these cases, immediate medical attention should be sought.
Integumentary Side Effects
According to the "PDR Nurse's Drug Handbook 2010," serious integumentary (skin) side effects in persons taking Celebrex have been reported. For example, in those who experience Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis, the skin dies and sloughs off. Any sign of rash should be immediately reported to a doctor. A rash, accompanied by flu-like symptoms of fever, malaise or decreased appetite are the initial signs of Stevens-Johnson syndrome. This illness has a long recovery time, and hospitalization is necessary for effective and curative treatment.
Liver Toxicity Side Effect
With any NSAID such as Celebrex, liver toxicity is a possible side effect. Signs and symptoms of liver toxicity include are nausea, fatigue, lethargy, itching and yellowing of the skin or eyes, which indicates jaundice. Any symptoms that feel "flu-like" may indicate liver compromise. It is important to notify a physician of these effects in order to receive proper treatment and discuss changes in drug therapy.
Gastrointestinal Side Effects
Manageable gastrointestinal side effects include abdominal pain, diarrhea and flatulence. Over-the-counter remedies for gastric upset and diarrhea usually alleviate these common symptoms. However, any change in bowel patterns such as the development of dark, tarry stools or noticeable bloody stools should be reported to a physician immediately. Celebrex carries the risk of the development of gastrointestinal bleeding.
Other Side Effects
An increase in upper respiratory tract infections has been reported in patients taking Celebrex.
Celebrex may increase the incidence of headache, dizziness and insomnia.
Celebrex, when taken in conjunction with aspirin for anti-thrombolytic therapy, increases the risk of the development of stomach ulcers.
Celebrex may decrease anti-hypertensive medication effectiveness.
References
- "PDR Nurse's Drug Handbook 2010"; Thomson Reuters and Alexander Ivy; 2009
- "Mosby's 2010 Nursing Drug Reference"; Linda Skidmore-Roth; 2009
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