Celecoxib, also known by the brand name Celebrex, is a prescription pain medication that's used to temporarily relieve aches and pains from certain conditions, such as different types of arthritis. Celebrex (celecoxib) is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), but it has a lower risk of causing stomach upset than other medications in its drug class, such as naproxen. The dosage for Celebrex (celecoxib) is typically once or twice a day. It's recommended to avoid taking this medication with alcohol since it can raise your risk for stomach bleeding. Other side effects include headache, indigestion, and diarrhea.
Celebrex (celecoxib) is a COX-2 selective nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It works by blocking a protein called cyclooxygenase-2 (or COX-2) that's involved in causing pain and swelling. By blocking COX-2, this medication eases pain and swelling.
In contrast to most other NSAIDs, Celebrex (celecoxib) doesn't affect the COX-1 proteins protecting your stomach and gut. Blocking COX-2 rather than COX-1 is thought to explain why Celebrex (celecoxib) generally has a lower risk for stomach bleeding and ulcers.
The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.
Adults
Children
Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.
Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:
Less common or rare
Abnormal growth in the breast
arm, back, or jaw pain
bloody or black, tarry stools
blurred vision
burning feeling in the chest or stomach
burning or stinging of the skin
burning, tingling, numbness, or pain in the hands, arms, feet, or legs
chest pain or discomfort
chest tightness or heaviness
chills
confusion
congestion in the chest
cramps
fast or irregular heartbeat
heavy non-menstrual vaginal bleeding
increased hunger
increased thirst
increased urination
loss of appetite
loss of consciousness
muscle aches and pains
nerve pain
painful blisters on the trunk of body
painful cold sores or blisters on the lips, nose, eyes, or genitals
pale skin
redness or swelling in the ear
sensation of pins and needles
soreness or redness around the fingernails and toenails
stabbing pain
stiff neck
stomachache
stomach pain (severe)
sweating
tenderness in the stomach area
troubled breathing with exertion
unexplained weight loss
unusual bleeding or bruising
unusual tiredness or weakness
unusual weight gain
vomiting
vomiting of blood or material that looks like coffee grounds
weakness
Incidence not known
Area rash
changes in skin color
clay-colored stools
dilated neck veins
light-colored stools
pale or a bluish color skin of the fingers or toes
seizures
slurred speech
sores, welting, or blisters
sudden and severe inability to speak
unpleasant breath odor
weakness in the arm or leg on one side of the body
yellow eyes and skin
Get emergency help immediately if any of the following symptoms of overdose occur:
Symptoms of overdose
Continuing thirst
dizziness
drowsiness
headache, severe or continuing
sudden decrease in the amount of urine
troubled breathing
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:
More common
Back pain
change in sense of taste
headache
inability to sleep
loss of taste
pain or burning in the throat
stuffy or runny nose
Less common
bleeding after defecation
bloody or cloudy urine
breast pain
bone deformity
buzzing or ringing noise in the ears
decrease in height
decreased appetite
difficult, burning, or painful urination
difficulty with moving or walking
difficulty with swallowing
excessive muscle tone, muscle tension, or tightness
excessive tearing
feeling of pressure
hoarseness
increased sweating
infection
inflammation
itching, lumps, numbness, pain, rash, redness, scarring, soreness, stinging, swelling, tenderness, tingling, ulceration, or warmth at site
itching of the vagina or genital area
joint or muscle pain or stiffness
large, flat, blue, or purplish patches in the skin
loss of energy or weakness
loss of hearing
muscle pain increased
muscle stiffness
nervousness
numbness or tingling in the fingers or toes
pain during sexual intercourse
pain in the back, ribs, arms, or legs
pounding heartbeat
puffiness or swelling of the eyelids or around the eyes, face, lips, or tongue
redness or swelling in the arms or legs
sensitivity of the skin to sunlight
severe sunburn
sleepiness
straining while passing stool
sudden sweating and feelings of warmth
swelling
swelling or inflammation of the mouth
tenderness
thick, white vaginal discharge with no odor or with a mild odor
thinning of the hair
trouble with swallowing
troubled breathing
uncomfortable swelling around anus
unexplained weight loss
voice changes
warmth on the skin
weakness or heaviness of the legs
Incidence not known
Bleeding gums
blistering, peeling, or loosening of the skin
large, hive-like swelling on the face, eyelids, lips, tongue, throat, hands, legs, feet, or sex organs
loss of sense of smell
pinpoint red spots on the skin
red or irritated eyes
red skin lesions, often with a purple center
shakiness and unsteady walk
sores, ulcers, or white spots in the mouth or on the lips
stomach cramps
swelling of the neck
tenderness
trembling, or other problems with muscle control or coordination
unsteadiness
watery or bloody diarrhea
Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
No, Celebrex (celecoxib) hasn't been banned or discontinued since its approval. Similar medications — Vioxx (rofecoxib) and Bextra (valdecoxib) — were withdrawn from the market because there were concerns about having a higher risk of heart attack and stroke in people who took these medications. But in a large clinical study, people with OA or RA who took Celebrex (celecoxib) had the same risk of having a heart attack or stroke as people who took prescription-strength ibuprofen (Advil) or naproxen. Keep in mind that all NSAIDs have boxed warnings for higher risk of heart attacks and stroke. Always take Celebrex (celecoxib) for the shortest amount of time at the lowest dose possible to treat your pain.
Celebrex (celecoxib) isn't a narcotic painkiller. Narcotics typically refer to opioid pain medications). Instead, Celebrex (celecoxib) is a medication belonging to the drug class called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Unlike opioid medications that work in your brain to lower how much pain you feel, NSAIDs block certain proteins involved in causing inflammation and pain.
Yes, celecoxib is the lower-cost generic formulation of brand-name Celebrex. They're both available by prescription from your provider only. Don't take celecoxib and Celebrex at the same time since it can cause an accidental overdose, which can lead to stomach side effects, drowsiness, tiredness, confusion, and rare but serious stomach damage.
You can take acetaminophen (Tylenol) with Celebrex (celecoxib), but discuss with your provider first before taking any additional pain medications to make sure the combination best fits your needs. Celebrex (celecoxib) and acetaminophen (Tylenol) work differently to lower pain in your body. But keep in mind that while acetaminophen (Tylenol) can relieve pain, it doesn't lower swelling caused by arthritis. In fact, studies show that acetaminophen (Tylenol) doesn't work any better than placebo in treating hip or knee pain caused by osteoarthritis.
No, you shouldn't take Celebrex (celecoxib) with ibuprofen (Advil). Both medications are NSAIDs — they work similarly to treat pain and aches and have similar safety warnings. Taking these medications together can put you at higher risk for side effects, such as stomach bleeds and ulcers. If Celebrex (celecoxib) or ibuprofen (Advil) alone isn't enough to treat your pain, discuss with your provider about other options for you.
Some people who take Celebrex (celecoxib) have reported weight gain, but it isn't a common side effect of this medication. If you find yourself gaining weight while taking Celebrex (celecoxib), talk with your provider. They can examine you and discuss with you about possible other causes of your weight gain. In some cases, sudden weight gain can be a symptom of fluid buildup in the body and heart failure. Let your provider know right away if you notice any changes in your blood pressure or experience symptoms, such as trouble breathing, swelling, and tiredness, in addition to weight gain.
It's best to avoid or limit drinking alcohol if you're taking Celebrex (celecoxib). In general, alcohol and NSAIDs both carry a risk of stomach bleeding and ulcer. Drinking alcohol while you're taking an NSAID like Celebrex (celecoxib) can raise those risks. In addition, drinking too much alcohol while you're taking Celebrex (celecoxib) can raise the risk of having kidney problems, liver damage, or heart problems, which can be dangerous. Ask your provider about your drinking habits while you're taking Celebrex (celecoxib), especially if you drink alcohol regularly.
Celebrex (celecoxib) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.
Celebrex (celecoxib) can raise your risk of having blood clots, heart attack, and stroke. If you have heart problems, talk to your provider before starting this medication. To lower your risk, take Celebrex (celecoxib) at the lowest dose and for the shortest amount of time possible. Don't take Celebrex (celecoxib) if you've recently had or will be having heart surgery. Call 911 if you experience chest pain, trouble breathing, weakness on one side of your body, or trouble speaking or walking.
Celebrex (celecoxib) can raise your risk for serious stomach or gut problems, including bleeding and ulcers. In some cases, this can be life-threatening. Serious stomach or gut problems can occur with or without warning or symptoms while you're taking Celebrex (celecoxib). Your risk for stomach bleeds might be even higher if you're also taking other medications, such as oral corticosteroids and blood thinners (anticoagulants). Make sure your provider is aware of all of your medical conditions and medications before starting Celebrex (celecoxib) so they can discuss with you about your risk for stomach or gut bleeds. Get medical help right away if you have severe stomach pain, black and tarry stools, or blood in the urine while using Celebrex (celecoxib).
Though rare, Celebrex (celecoxib) can cause liver problems. Rarely, these problems can lead to liver failure. Liver damage can happen with or without symptoms, so it's best to use the lowest possible dose of Celebrex (celecoxib) for the shortest possible time to lower your risk. Stop Celebrex (celecoxib) and talk to your provider right away if you experience symptoms of liver problems, such as fever, chills, fatigue, nausea, pain on the right side of the stomach, yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes, clay-colored stool, or dark urine.
Celebrex (celecoxib) can raise your blood pressure or cause swelling in the arms or legs. It can also put you at risk for heart failure or hospitalization from heart failure complications. This is because the medication can cause your body to hold onto extra fluid. Let your provider know if you have any heart problems (especially heart failure) or if you're taking blood pressure medications so they can make sure Celebrex (celecoxib) is safe for you.
Check your blood pressure regularly while you're taking Celebrex (celecoxib), and let your provider know if you notice any changes. Also contact your provider if you experience trouble breathing, tiredness, swelling in your body, or sudden weight gain as these can be symptoms of heart failure.
Celebrex (celecoxib) can damage your kidneys by slowing down blood flow to the kidneys. The risk is higher if you're taking certain blood pressure medications (like ACE inhibitors, ARBs, or water pills). Your risk might also be higher if you have certain medical conditions, such as kidney problems, liver problems, and heart failure. Kidney damage is usually reversible once you stop taking Celebrex (celecoxib). Tell your provider if you notice a change in how often you urinate after starting this medication since this can be a sign of kidney damage.
In addition, kidney damage from Celebrex (celecoxib) can lead to high potassium levels. Sometimes, this medication can cause high potassium levels even in people with healthy kidneys. Call your provider right away if you experience symptoms of high potassium levels, such as nausea, vomiting, muscle weakness, or tingling in your limbs because it can lead to dangerous health problems.
It's possible to have a severe allergic reaction to Celebrex (celecoxib). These can include life-threatening reactions like anaphylaxis (closing of the throat). In addition, your risk of having an allergic reaction to Celebrex (celecoxib) might be higher if you have a sulfa allergy because this medication is considered a sulfa drug. Before starting Celebrex (celecoxib), let your provider know if you have an allergy to sulfa drugs, aspirin, or other NSAIDs. Get medical help right away if you notice hives, rash, swelling of the lips or tongue, or trouble breathing after you use Celebrex (celecoxib).
Though rare, Celebrex (celecoxib) can also cause serious skin reactions. Stop using the medication and get medical attention right away if you have rash, peeling skin, or painful blisters all over your body. These skin reactions sometimes happen with fever, body aches, and swelling of the face.
Celebrex (celecoxib) can cause your airways to tighten, which can lead to severe asthma attacks. Because of this risk, be careful using Celebrex (celecoxib) if you have asthma. Severe asthma attacks might be more likely to happen if you have asthma or asthma attacks after taking aspirin or other NSAID in the past. Get medical help right away if your throat tightens and you can't breathe.
Celebrex (celecoxib) can cause harm to your unborn baby if it's taken after 20 weeks of pregnancy. It can cause serious complications, such as heart or kidney problems in your unborn baby. Speak to your provider about the risks and benefits of Celebrex (celecoxib) if you're pregnant. Ask whether there are safer alternatives.
| Dosage | Quantity | Price as low as | Price per unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 50mg | 60 capsules | $15.90 | $0.27 |
| 100mg | 60 capsules | $13.97 | $0.23 |
| 200mg | 30 capsules | $11.21 | $0.37 |
| 400mg | 30 capsules | $17.77 | $0.59 |
Adults
Children age 2 years and older
The dose might differ if you or your child has liver problems.
Although certain medicines should not be used together at all, in other cases two different medicines may be used together even if an interaction might occur. In these cases, your doctor may want to change the dose, or other precautions may be necessary. When you are taking this medicine, it is especially important that your healthcare professional know if you are taking any of the medicines listed below. The following interactions have been selected on the basis of their potential significance and are not necessarily all-inclusive.
Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is not recommended. Your doctor may decide not to treat you with this medication or change some of the other medicines you take.
Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.
Using this medicine with any of the following medicines may cause an increased risk of certain side effects, but using both drugs may be the best treatment for you. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.
Contraindications are specific health conditions or situations in which a person should not take a medication due to safety concerns. If you have any of the following conditions or if any of the following apply to you, let your healthcare provider know because Celebrex (celecoxib) will not be safe for you to take.