Celebrex

celecoxib

The non steroidal, anti-inflammatory drug Celebrex is used for relieving pain and swelling. Celebrex is used effectively to treat pain in arthritis, acute pain, and menstrual pain and discomfort, etc. Celebrex is also used for treating the colon polyps.

Celebrex belongs to the class NSAID’s that blocks the action of COX-2 enzymes. And thereby blocks the production of inflammatory prostaglandins without stopping the production of prostaglandins that helps in protecting the stomach and intestines. This reduces the pain and inflammation. Celebrex is approved about a year back for treating the arthritis pain. Celebrex is similar to aspirin and ibuprofen in action that blocks the COX 1 and 2 enzymes, which are produced by inflamed tissue, precancerous polyps in the intestine. Celebrex, specifically inhibits the enzyme COX-2 and therefore does not cause gastric problems.

Low doses of Celebrex are preferred to be on the safer side. In case of osteoarthritis problem, 100 mg of Celebrex is administered twice daily or 200 mg is given once every day. 100 to 200 mg of Celebrex is administered daily twice a day in rheumatoid arthritis patients. A single dose of 400mg of Celebrex is administered for acute pains, menstrual cramps, followed by additional 200 mg if required only. 400 mg of Celebrex is given two times daily for familial adenomatous polyposis. In most of the cases 200 mg of Celebrex in 24 hours provides complete relief.

Celebrex is taken orally along with full glass of water. It is recommended to lie down after the drug administration. In some conditions, Celebrex takes minimum couple of weeks for providing complete relief. However, if you are using this medication as needed, they work best only if they are administered when you notice the first sign of the ailment. The medication will not provide complete relief in worsened cases.

Since Celebrex is consumed only when required there is no specific dose schedule. However, if you happen to miss a dose, do not have both the doses together. If the dosage clashes, it is better to avoid the previous dose and continue with the current dose. It is also better to consult your physician in case of any doubts regarding the dosage amount.

Some of the side effects of Celebrex include:

• Abdominal pain
• Acid
• Sour stomach
• Belching
• Diarrhea
• Excess gas in stomach or intestines
• Heartburn
• Indigestion
• Itching skin
• Pain or discomfort in chest upper stomach, throat
• Nausea
• Unusual tiredness or weakness
• Vomiting
• Weight gain

Less common side effects,

• Abdominal cramps,
• Stomach soreness or discomfort

Do not use Celebrex if you are allergic to one or more components of the drug. Allergic reactions like,

• Severe rash
• Hives
• Trouble breathing
• Growths in the nose
• Dizziness is commonly seen in some patients who are allergic to aspirin, ibuprofen, and sulfamethoxazole.

You also should not use Celebrex if you had recently undergone heart surgery, or if you have liver problems, or if you are in the last trimester of pregnancy. You should also not take Celebrex if you are using another NSAID drug.

Celebrex is harmful for unborn baby and administering Celebrex in the last trimester can cause birth defects in the baby. Celebrex also is known to pass through the breast milk and is also not recommended for children under 2 years.