Celebrex (celecoxib) is a prescription analgesic medication indicated to alleviate painful symptoms associated with certain arthritic conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis. This medication is a member of a class of compounds called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and works by inhibiting a specific enzyme (COX-2) that is involved in the pain and inflammatory response of the body. Review the Celebrex drug warnings with your doctor prior to beginning treatment with this medication.
Cardiovascular Events
Celebrex may increase your risk of experiencing heart-related problems, warns the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Heart-related problems associated with Celebrex use include high blood pressure (hypertension), heart attack (myocardial infarction), congestive heart failure or stroke. Prolonged or chronic use of Celebrex can further increase these risks, especially among patients who have cardiovascular disease (heart disease).
Gastrointestinal Complications
As an NSAID, Celebrex use carries with it an increased risk of developing gastrointestinal damage, including stomach bleeding, tearing (perforation) or ulceration. Such complications can occur with both short- and long-term use of Celebrex, especially in patients over the age of 65, explains the FDA. Contact your doctor immediately if you develop symptoms of gastrointestinal damage, such as blood in your stools.
Liver Dysfunction
Treatment with Celebrex may alter the normal function of the liver, which can cause liver damage (hepatoxicity) in some patients. Signs of liver damage include jaundice (yellowing of the eyes or skin), abdominal pain, fatigue or skin rash. If such symptoms occur, your doctor may recommend that you discontinue Celebrex treatment.
Kidney Damage
Prolonged or chronic use of NSAIDs, such as Celebrex, has been associated with kidney damage (renal toxicity). If you have a history of liver dysfunction, heart failure or impaired kidney function, you should be continually monitored by your doctor while taking Celebrex to avoid further kidney-related complications.
Pregnancy
Women who are pregnant should avoid using Celebrex beginning at 30 weeks gestation, reports the FDA. Use of Celebrex during this stage of pregnancy can negatively affect fetal heart development.
Anaphylactoid Reactions
Certain patients who take Celebrex may experience a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) upon initial exposure to this drug. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include difficulty breathing, chest tightness, dizziness, headache, swelling of the mouth or loss of consciousness. If such side effects occur after you take a dose of Celebrex, seek immediate emergency medical care.
