What is celecoxib used for?
Celecoxib is commonly used to reduce pain and inflammation. It is used to treat acute pain, arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, menstrual pain, and migraine.
Celecoxib may also be used for other conditions as determined by your healthcare provider.
How does celecoxib work (mechanism of action)?
Celecoxib works by blocking certain substances in the body that cause pain, inflammation, and fever.
How is celecoxib supplied (dosage forms)?
Celecoxib is available as Celebrex, Elyxyb, and generic celecoxib in the following dosage forms that are taken by mouth.
What are the most common side effects of celecoxib?
The most common side effects of celecoxib are listed below. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any of these side effects that bother you.
- Upset stomach or stomach pain
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Gas or heartburn
- Nausea and vomiting
- Dizziness
- Stuffy or runny nose, sore throat
- Change in taste
- Rash
There may be other side effects of celecoxib that are not listed here. Contact your healthcare provider if you think you are having a side effect of a medicine. In the U.S., you can report side effects to the FDA at www.fda.gov/medwatch or by calling 800-FDA-1088. In Canada, you can report side effects to Health Canada at www.health.gc.ca/medeffect or by calling 866-234-2345.
What are the serious side effects of celecoxib?
While less common, the most serious side effects of celecoxib are described below, along with what to do if they happen.
Heart Attack and Stroke. Celecoxib can increase your risk of a heart attack or stroke that can lead to death. This risk is increased in people with existing heart disease and with longer use of celecoxib and higher doses. Do not take celecoxib if you have had a recent heart attack without talking to your healthcare provider. This could increase your risk of having another heart attack. Get emergency help if you have any of the following symptoms of a heart attack or stroke.
- Chest pain or pressure
- Fast or abnormal heartbeat
- Trouble breathing
- Pain in your back, jaw, throat, or arm
- Sweating, upset stomach, vomiting, or dizziness
- Sudden weakness on one side of your body
- Sudden and severe headache
- Slurred speech or trouble understanding speech
Severe Allergic Reactions. Celecoxib can cause allergic reactions, including a specific type of allergic reaction called DRESS. DRESS stands for Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms. It is also sometimes called multiorgan hypersensitivity. This is a reaction that can affect multiple parts of the body, including your liver, kidneys, and heart. Stop taking the medicine and get help right away if you have any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction.
Who should not use celecoxib?
Allergies to Ingredients. People who are allergic to any of the following should not take celecoxib.
- Celebrex
- Elyxyb
- Celecoxib
- Aspirin or any other medicine known as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)
- Sulfonamides
- Any of the ingredients in the specific product dispensed=
Your pharmacist can tell you all of the ingredients in the specific celecoxib products they stock.
Heart Surgery. Do not take celecoxib right before or after a heart surgery called coronary artery bypass graft. Taking celecoxib during this time can increase your risk for a heart attack or stroke.
What should I know about celecoxib before using it?
Do not take celecoxib unless it has been prescribed to you by a healthcare provider. Take it as prescribed.
Do not share celecoxib with other people, even if they have the same condition as you. It may harm them.
What should I do if I accidentally use too much celecoxib?
If you or someone else has taken too much celecoxib, get medical help right away, call 911, or contact a Poison Control center at 800-222-1222.
What should I do if I miss a dose of celecoxib?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and only take the next dose. Do not take double or extra doses.