Celebrex is FDA approved to treat arthritis, pain, menstrual cramps, and colonic polyps. It belongs to a group of drugs called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). It works by reducing hormones that cause inflammation and pain in the body. Celecoxib differs from other NSAIDs in that it causes less inflammation and ulceration of the stomach and intestine (at least with short-term use) and does not interfere with the clotting of blood.
Are there drug interactions associated with Celebrex?
It's important to tell your doctor about all other medications you take. Other medications may affect how Celebrex works and Celebrex may affect how the other medications work. Drugs which can interact with Celebrex include:
ACE inhibitors (blood pressure medications)
Lasix
Fluconazole or ketoconazole
Lithium
Phenytoin
Warfarin
Aspirin
Some common side effects include:
Cough; fever; skin rash; sneezing; sore throat; swelling of face, fingers, feet, and/or lower legs
Less common or rare side effects include:
Bloody or black tarry stools; burning feeling in chest or stomach; chills; congestion in chest; cough; diarrhea; fatigue; fever; loss of appetite; muscle aches and pains; nausea; shortness of breath; stomach pain (severe); tenderness in stomach area; unusual weight gain; vomiting of blood or material that looks like coffee grounds; weakness.
Some Celebrex side effects that can occur usually do not require seeking medical attention. Some of these effects may go away as your body adjusts to the drug over time. You should always consult a physician if any of the following Celebrex side effects continue or are severe:
Back pain; dizziness; gas; headache; heartburn ; inability to sleep; nausea ; pain or burning in throat; stomach pain; stuffy or runny nose.
Less common side effects include:
Anxiety; blurred vision; buzzing or ringing noise in ears; change in sense of taste; constipation; decreased appetite; depression; difficulty swallowing; dry mouth; fast heartbeat; increased sweating; joint or muscle pain or stiffness; loss of energy or weakness; nervousness; numbness or tingling in fingers and/or toes; pain or burning in throat; pounding heartbeat; sleepiness; sudden sweating and feelings of warmth; unusual tiredness; vomiting.
What are the signs of overdose of Celebrex?
As with any medication, serious consequences may result from an overdose of Celebrex. The following symptoms may occur with Celebrex overdose: breathing difficulties, coma, drowsiness, gastrointestinal bleeding, high blood pressure, kidney failure, nausea, sluggishness, stomach pain, and vomiting. Use Celebrex only as directed to avoid an overdose.
