Medications

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Medications and Drugs

GENERIC NAME: CELECOXIB - ORAL (sell-eh-COX-ib)

BRAND NAME(S): Celebrex

USES: This medication is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), specifically a COX-2 inhibitor, which relieves pain and swelling (inflammation). It is used to treat arthritis, acute pain, and menstrual pain and discomfort. Celecoxib is also used to decrease growths found in the intestines (colon polyps) of persons with a family history of this condition. This drug works by blocking the enzyme in your body that makes prostaglandins. Decreasing prostaglandins helps to reduce pain and swelling.

HOW TO USE: Take by mouth, usually once or twice daily, or as directed by your doctor. To decrease the chance of stomach upset, this drug is best taken with food. Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. The lowest effective dosage should always be used (see also Precautions section). Take this medication with a full glass of water (8 oz or 240 ml) unless your doctor directs you otherwise. Do not lie down for 30 minutes after taking this medication. In certain conditions (e.g., arthritis), it may take up to two weeks, taken regularly, before significant benefits of this drug take effect. If you are taking this drug on an "as needed" basis (not on a regular schedule), remember that pain medications work best if they are used as the first signs of pain occur. If you wait until the pain has significantly worsened, the medicine may not work as well.

SIDE EFFECTS: Stomach upset or gas may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: severe headache, unexplained weight gain, swelling of the hands or feet, change in amount of urine. This drug may rarely cause serious (possibly fatal) bleeding from the stomach or intestines. If you notice any of the following highly unlikely but very serious side effects, stop taking celecoxib and consult your doctor or pharmacist immediately: black stools, vomit that looks like coffee grounds, persistent stomach/abdominal pain, chest pain, one-sided weakness, slurred speech, sudden vision changes. This drug may rarely cause serious liver disease. If you notice any of the following highly unlikely but very serious side effects, stop taking celecoxib and consult your doctor or pharmacist immediately: yellowing eyes or skin, dark urine, persistent stomach/abdominal pain, unusual fatigue. In the unlikely event you have a serious allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.