Celecoxib

Please note: these are basic guidelines, refer to your doctor for a professional medical opinion

Popular brand names:

Celebrex

Drug group:

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug

Prescription needed?

Yes

What does it do?

Celecoxib reduces pain, stiffness, and inflammation and is used to:

• Relieve the symptoms of arthritis (including rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis)
• Treat mild to moderate musculoskeletal pain and post-operative pain
• Treat dysmenorrhoea (painful periods)

How does it work?

• Celecoxib inhibits cyclo-oxygenase-2 (an enzyme involved in prostaglandin synthesis)
• Less prostaglandin results in less inflammation and less pain

How should it be used?

• Celecoxib can be taken with or without food, at any time of the day
• Do not use celecoxib if you are allergic to aspirin, other NSAIDs, or sulphonamides

What is the typical dosage?

Your doctor will recommend a dosage tailored to your need, but typically:

Total daily adult dose: 200–400mg, taken 1–2 x daily

How quickly will it start to work?

Within 1 hour

How long will the effects last?

8 hours

When should I stop using it?

It can safely be stopped as soon as no longer needed it, but if prescribed for long-term use discuss with your doctor before stopping.

Is it safe for prolonged use?

Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration as long-term use increases the risk of a stroke or heart attack. Regular blood tests for kidney function may be needed.

What are the possible side effects?

The following have been reported:

• More common: indigestion, abdominal pain, diarrhoea, flatulence, nausea, dizziness
• Less common: insomnia, sleepiness, vertigo
• Report to your doctor before taking your next dose if you experience: rash, ankle swelling, palpitations, wheezing, breathlessness, chest pain, groin/leg pain, black/bloody vomit or stool, loss of consciousness

What other considerations are important?

Dosage may be adjusted by your doctor under certain conditions.

• Certain health problems: heart/liver/kidney problems, epilepsy, asthma, current or previous peptic ulcers, high blood pressure, ankle swelling, history of heart attack or stroke, inflammatory bowel disease (IBS), peripheral artery disease
• Other medicines: ACE inhibitors, SSRI antidepressants, antihypertensives, diuretics, other drugs that increase the risk of bleeding and/or peptic ulcers (e.g. aspirin and other NSAIDs), lithium, carbamazepine, fluconazole, rifampicin
• Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Not used at all
• Children: Not recommended
• Over 60: Lower doses may be necessary, side effects more likely
• Driving and hazardous work: Caution, the drug can cause dizziness or sleepiness
• Alcohol: Avoid, increased risk of drowsiness and stomach irritation