Introduction to Celebrex
Celebrex is the drug that is prescribed for joint pain, swelling and stiffness of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis as well as for relief from acute pain and menstrual pain.
How To Use Celebrex
Take this medication with a full glass of water (8 ounces or 240 milliliters) 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.
The following side effects have been reported:
- anxiety
- confusion
- depression
- hair loss
- hallucinations
- increased levels of potassium in the blood
- low blood cell counts
- palpitations
- pancreatitis
- tingling sensation
- unusual headache with stiff neck (aseptic meningitis)
- vertigo.
If you miss a dose of Celebrex, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the amount of Celebrex used to catch up.
Recommended dosage
The following dosages are typically cut in half for people with moderate liver problems.
Osteoarthritis: the recommended daily dose is 200 milligrams, taken as a single dose or in 100-milligram doses twice a day.
Rheumatoid Arthritis: the recommended dose is 100 to 200 milligrams twice a day.
Precautions
Do not take this medication if you have a severe allegicreaction to aspirin or any medicine containing aspirin or to a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (such as Feldene, Motrin, Naprosyn, Clinoril).
Do not take this medication if you have a severe allergic reaction to a sulfonamide antibiotic (Septra DS, Bactrim DS, Gantrisin). A severe reaction includes a severe rash, hives, breathing difficulties, or dizziness. If you have a question about whether you are allergic to this medicine, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
If you experience difficulty breathing; tightness of chest; swelling of eyelids, face, or lips; or if you develop a rash or hives, tell your doctor immediately. Do not take any more doses of this medicine unless your doctor tells you to do so.
Storage
Store Generic Celebrex at room temperature between 59?°F and 86?°F (15?°C and 30?°C) in a tightly-closed container, away from heat and light.
Celebrex Oral Notes
Do not share this medication with others.
Laboratory and/or medical tests (e.g., complete blood count, liver and kidney function tests) may be performed periodically to monitor your progress or check for side effects. Consult your doctor for more details.
Non-drug treatment for arthritis that is approved by your doctor (e.g., weight loss if needed, strengthening and conditioning exercises) may help improve your flexibility, range of motion, and joint function. Consult your doctor for specific instructions.
