What is it used for?

Celebrex is prescribed to treat osteoarthritis (the illness that degenerates joints), rheumatoid arthritis (an autoimmune condition that makes the immune system to damage the joints), very strong pain, and and ankylosing spondylitis (also known as Bechterew syndrome that affects the spine; it may cause the fusion of the spine). Celecoxib is also prescribed to deal with astute pains during the menstrual cycle. One more use for it is to deal with abnormal growths in rectum and large intestine. When there are thousands of those abnormal growths also called polyps, the condition is called familial adenomatous polyposis. Medically speaking, Celebrex is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It is a selective COX-2 inhibitor and primarily stops the body from producing prostaglandin. To say it all in simpler English, this medicine inhibits the body from producing materials that contribute to pain and inflammation.

How is the medicine take?

The drug is produced in capsules for oral consumption. The usual dosage is from 100 to 200 ounces at a time, disregarding the food intake. The minimal effective dose should be used. If you have been prescribed a dose of Celecoxib that is greater than 200 mg, you should take this medicine together with the meal. In cases when you are not sure how to take the drug, do not hesitate to contact your licensed medical professional. The label that comes with the package of the drug might be very helpful in explaining the workings of the drug. Consult your doctor, should you not understand something. It is vital to take this drug as prescribed. To help you remember when to take it, you can have it at the same time every day. Stick to the dose stated in your prescription.

Are there any precautions to consider?

Before taking celecoxib,
• tell your doctor if you have or have ever had any of the conditions mentioned in the IMPORTANT WARNING section or asthma; nasal polyps; swelling of the hands, arms, feet, ankles, or lower legs; or liver or kidney disease.
• tell your doctor if you are pregnant, especially if you are in the last few months of your pregnancy, you plan to become pregnant, or you are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking celecoxib, call your doctor.
• if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking celecoxib.


What is the most appropriate food when you take this medicine?

You can eat the food you normally eat, unless your physician tells you otherwise.

What happens if you skip one dose?

If you remember soon enough, take the capsule you have missed. If it is time for the next regular dose, skip the previous one and stick to your routine schedule. Do not compensate for the dose you did not take.

Are there any side effects of this drug?

Celecoxib may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
• diarrhea
• gas or bloating
• sore throat
• cold symptoms
Celecoxib may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while taking this medication.


How should you store the medicine?

The package in which it was sold should be good enough for storage. Just make sure it is closed tightly and children will not be able to get to it. The drug should not be exposed to heat or moisture, so do not place it in the bathroom. Beware of the packages that have expired. To make sure that you dispose of the medication properly, talk to your doctor.

Anything else you should be aware of?

Do not give your prescribed medicine to anyone else. If you have any concerns while taking the drug, consult your doctor immediately.