celecoxib
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.
What is Celebrex (celecoxib)?
What is Celebrex (celecoxib) used for?
Osteoarthritis (OA)
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA)
Sudden pain
Menstrual cramps
How Celebrex (celecoxib) works
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.
Drug Facts
More on Celebrex (celecoxib) essentials
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What are the side effects of Celebrex (celecoxib)?
Common Side Effects
- Headache (16%)
- Indigestion (9%)
- Upper respiratory infection (8%)
- Diarrhea (6%)
- Sinus infection (congestion, runny nose; 5%)
- Belly pain (4%)
- Headache (13%)
- Fever (8%)
- Belly pain (4-8%)
- Cough (7%)
- Nausea (7%)
- Diarrhea (5%)
- Common cold (stuffy nose, sneezing; 5%)
Other Side Effects
- Passing gas
- Vomiting
- Back pain
- Muscle or joint pain
- Swelling in the arms and legs
- Sore throat
- Stuffy or runny nose
- Dizziness
- Trouble sleeping
- Ringing in the ear
- Dry mouth
- Rash
Serious Side Effects
- Heart attack: trouble breathing, chest pain or tightness
- Heart failure: trouble breathing, tiredness, swelling in your body, sudden weight gain
- Stroke: blurred vision, difficulty speaking, difficulty walking, weakness on one side of the body
- Stomach or gut bleeds: blood in your vomit, stool that looks like black coffee grounds, pain in your stomach that doesn't go away
- Severe asthma attack: chest pain, cough, difficulty breathing, wheezing
- Serious allergic or skin reaction: fever, body aches, cough, peeling skin, rash, painful blisters all over your body, trouble breathing, swelling of the face
Source:Â DailyMed
More on Celebrex (celecoxib) side effects
The following side effects have also been reported
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.
Pros and cons of Celebrex (celecoxib)
Pros
Can use for different types of arthritis
Fewer stomach side effects compared to some other NSAIDs
Safe to take for children 2 years and older with RA
Can open capsules and mix contents with applesauce, so it's convenient for people with difficulty swallowing pills
Cons
Can raise the risk of heart attack and stroke
Not recommended during second and third trimesters of pregnancy
Not recommended for use if you have severe liver disease
Might not be safe for people with a sulfa allergy
Pharmacist tips for Celebrex (celecoxib)
You can take Celebrex (celecoxib) with or without food. But since Celebrex (celecoxib) can be hard on your stomach, taking it with food can lower your risk of having belly pain, stomach irritation, and stomach bleeding.
If you have trouble swallowing pills or if you're giving this medication to a child, you can open the Celebrex (celecoxib) capsule and sprinkle the contents onto cool or room-temperature applesauce. Once the medication is sprinkled on top, swallow the applesauce right away along with some water. You can keep the mixture in the refrigerator for up to 6 hours if you need to.
Don't take Celebrex (celecoxib) with other NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil) or aspirin, without asking your provider first. Doing so can raise your risk for stomach bleeds. NSAIDs are found in many over-the-counter pain, fever, and cold medications. Ask your provider or pharmacist if you're not sure whether you're already taking an NSAID.
Let your provider or pharmacist know what medications you're taking, including over-the-counter products and supplements, before you start Celebrex (celecoxib) and while you're taking this pain reliever. They can help you screen for dangerous drug interactions and make changes to your medications so that they're safe for you to take.
There's a chance you could be allergic to Celebrex (celecoxib) if you're allergic to aspirin or sulfa drugs. Always discuss all allergies with your providers and pharmacists before starting any new medications.
Frequently asked questions about Celebrex (celecoxib)
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What are the risks and warnings for Celebrex (celecoxib)?
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.
Heart attack and stroke
Risk factors: History of heart problems | Heart bypass surgery in the last 2 weeks | Planned heart bypass surgery | Taking Celebrex (celecoxib) for a long time
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.
Stomach bleeding and ulcers
Risk factors: Older adults | History of stomach bleeding or ulcers | Bleeding problems | Liver problems | Taking other medications that raise your risk for bleeds | Drinking alcohol | Smoking | Having poor health | Taking Celebrex (celecoxib) for a long time
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).
Liver problems
Risk factors: History of liver damage
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.
High blood pressure and heart failure
Risk factors: High blood pressure | Heart failure
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.
Kidney damage and high potassium levels
Risk factors: Older adults | Kidney or liver problems | Heart failure | Taking certain blood pressure medications (e.g., water pills, ACE inhibitors, ARBs) | Loss of body fluid through conditions such as severe vomiting, bleeding, or diarrhea | Using Celebrex (celecoxib) for a long time
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.
Severe allergic reactions
Risk factors: Sulfa allergy
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.
Severe asthma attack
Risk factors: Asthma | Stuffy nose with or without nasal polyps | History of allergic reaction to aspirin or other NSAIDs
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.
Harm to unborn babies
Risk factor: Currently in second or third trimester of pregnancy
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.
More on Celebrex (celecoxib) warnings
Celebrex (celecoxib) dosage forms
Typical dosing for Celebrex (celecoxib)
Adults
OA: The typical dose is 200 mg by mouth once a day or 100 by mouth twice a day.
RA: The typical dose is 100 mg to 200 mg by mouth twice a day.
AS: The typical starting dose is 200 mg by mouth once a day or 100 mg by mouth twice a day. Your provider will raise your dose after 6 weeks if you need more pain relief. The maximum dose is 400 mg per day.
Sudden pain or menstrual cramps: The typical starting dose is 400 mg by mouth for one time, followed by an additional 200 mg for another dose, if it's needed on the first day. Afterwards, the usual dose is 200 mg by mouth twice a day as needed for pain.
Children age 2 years and older
Juvenile RA: Dosing for children will depend on the child’s weight.
Body weight between 22 and 55 pounds: The typical dose is 50 mg by mouth twice a day.
Body weight greater than 55 pounds: The typical dose is 100 mg by mouth twice a day.
The dose might differ if you or your child has liver problems.
More on Celebrex (celecoxib) dosage forms
Interactions between Celebrex (celecoxib) and other drugs
More on Celebrex (celecoxib) interactions
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.
- Abciximab
- Aceclofenac
- Acemetacin
- Acenocoumarol
- Amiloride
- Amineptine
- Amitriptyline
- Amitriptylinoxide
- Amoxapine
- Amtolmetin Guacil
- Anagrelide
- Apixaban
- Ardeparin
- Argatroban
- Aspirin
- Balsalazide
- Bemiparin
- Bendroflumethiazide
- Benzthiazide
- Betamethasone
- Betrixaban
- Bismuth Subsalicylate
- Bivalirudin
- Bromfenac
- Budesonide
- Bufexamac
- Bumetanide
- Cangrelor
- Capecitabine
- Ceritinib
- Certoparin
- Chlorothiazide
- Chlorthalidone
- Choline Magnesium Trisalicylate
- Choline Salicylate
- Cilostazol
- Citalopram
- Clomipramine
- Clonixin
- Clopamide
- Clopidogrel
- Cortisone
- Cyclopenthiazide
- Cyclosporine
- Dabigatran Etexilate
- Dalteparin
- Danaparoid
- Deflazacort
- Desipramine
- Desirudin
- Desmopressin
- Desvenlafaxine
- Dexamethasone
- Dexibuprofen
- Dexketoprofen
- Diazoxide
- Dibenzepin
- Diflunisal
- Digoxin
- Dipyridamole
- Dipyrone
- Dothiepin
- Doxepin
- Droxicam
- Duloxetine
- Edoxaban
- Enoxaparin
- Eplerenone
- Epoprostenol
- Eptifibatide
- Escitalopram
- Ethacrynic Acid
- Etodolac
- Etofenamate
- Etoricoxib
- Felbinac
- Fenoprofen
- Fepradinol
- Feprazone
- Feverfew
- Floctafenine
- Flufenamic Acid
- Fluocortolone
- Fluoxetine
- Flurbiprofen
- Fluvoxamine
- Fondaparinux
- Furosemide
- Ginkgo
- Gossypol
- Heparin
- Hydrochlorothiazide
- Hydrocortisone
- Hydroflumethiazide
- Ibuprofen
- Iloprost
- Imipramine
- Indapamide
- Inotersen
- Ivosidenib
- Ketoprofen
- Lepirudin
- Levomilnacipran
- Lithium
- Lofepramine
- Lornoxicam
- Loxoprofen
- Lumiracoxib
- Magnesium Salicylate
- Meadowsweet
- Meclofenamate
- Mefenamic Acid
- Melitracen
- Meloxicam
- Mesalamine
- Methotrexate
- Methyclothiazide
- Methylprednisolone
- Metolazone
- Milnacipran
- Morniflumate
- Nabumetone
- Nadroparin
- Naproxen
- Nefazodone
- Nepafenac
- Niflumic Acid
- Nimesulide
- Nimesulide Beta Cyclodextrin
- Nitisinone
- Nortriptyline
- Olsalazine
- Opipramol
- Oxaprozin
- Oxyphenbutazone
- Paramethasone
- Parecoxib
- Parnaparin
- Paroxetine
- Pemetrexed
- Pentosan Polysulfate Sodium
- Pentoxifylline
- Phenindione
- Phenprocoumon
- Phenylbutazone
- Phenyl Salicylate
- Piketoprofen
- Piroxicam
- Polythiazide
- Prasugrel
- Prednisolone
- Prednisone
- Proglumetacin
- Propyphenazone
- Proquazone
- Protein C
- Protriptyline
- Reboxetine
- Reviparin
- Rivaroxaban
- Rofecoxib
- Salicylamide
- Salicylic Acid
- Salsalate
- Sertraline
- Sibutramine
- Sodium Salicylate
- Spironolactone
- Sulfasalazine
- Sulindac
- Tacrolimus
- Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate
- Tenoxicam
- Tianeptine
- Tiaprofenic Acid
- Ticagrelor
- Ticlopidine
- Tinzaparin
- Tirofiban
- Tolfenamic Acid
- Tolmetin
- Torsemide
- Trazodone
- Treprostinil
- Triamterene
- Trichlormethiazide
- Trimipramine
- Trolamine Salicylate
- Valdecoxib
- Venlafaxine
- Vilazodone
- Vorapaxar
- Vortioxetine
- Warfarin
- Xipamide
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.
- Acebutolol
- Alacepril
- Atenolol
- Azilsartan
- Azilsartan Medoxomil
- Benazepril
- Betaxolol
- Bisoprolol
- Candesartan Cilexetil
- Captopril
- Carteolol
- Carvedilol
- Celiprolol
- Enalapril
- Enalaprilat
- Eprosartan
- Esmolol
- Fluconazole
- Fosinopril
- Irbesartan
- Labetalol
- Levobunolol
- Lisinopril
- Losartan
- Metipranolol
- Metoprolol
- Moexipril
- Nadolol
- Nebivolol
- Olmesartan Medoxomil
- Oxprenolol
- Penbutolol
- Perindopril Erbumine
- Pindolol
- Practolol
- Propranolol
- Quinapril
- Ramipril
- Sotalol
- Spirapril
- Telmisartan
- Timolol
- Trandolapril
- Valsartan
How much does Celebrex (celecoxib) cost?
Celebrex (celecoxib) contraindications
History of allergies to Celebrex (celecoxib) or other NSAIDs
History of allergies to sulfa drugs
What are alternatives to Celebrex (celecoxib)?
Osteoarthritis (OA)
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA)
Sudden pain
Menstrual cramps
Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) (arthritis of the spine)
Polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis (arthritis in children)
Tendonitis and bursitis
Pain
Moderate-to-severe rheumatoid arthritis, including flare-ups
Moderate-to-severe ankylosing spondylitis
Moderate-to-severe osteoarthritis
Shoulder pain caused by bursitis or tendonitis
Gouty arthritis - all forms except extended-release (ER) capsules
What is the latest news about Celebrex (celecoxib)?
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References
Best studies we foundBorer, J. S., et al. (2005). Cardiovascular and gastrointestinal effects of COX-2 inhibitors and NSAIDs: Achieving a balance. Arthritis Research and Therapy.
Cadila Pharmaceuticals Limited. (2022). Celecoxib - celecoxib capsule [package insert]. DailyMed.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). Childhood arthritis.
Hunter, L. J., et al. (2011). The patterns of toxicity and management of acute nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) overdose. Open Access Emergency Medicine.
Msolli, M. A., et al. (2020). Acetaminophen, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or combination of both analgesics in acute posttrauma pain: A randomized controlled trial. Academic Emergency Medicine.
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. (2022). What Is Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting?
National Kidney Foundation. (n.d.). Managing high potassium (hyperkalemia).
Osani, M.C., et al. (2020). Duration of Symptom Relief and Early Trajectory of Adverse Events for Oral NSAIDs in Knee Osteoarthritis: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Arthritis Care & Research.
Pfizer, Inc. (2016). Landmark study demonstrates Pfizer’s Celebrex (celecoxib) has similar cardiovascular risk as compared to prescription doses of ibuprofen and naproxen.
Shin, S. (2018). Safety of celecoxib versus traditional nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in older patients with arthritis. Journal of Pain Research.
Sibbald, B. (2004). Rofecoxib (Vioxx) voluntarily withdrawn from market. Canadian Medical Association Journal.
Siebert, D. M., et al. (2020). Acetaminophen for pain relief in osteoarthritis. American Family Physician.
U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2018). COX-2 selective (includes Bextra, Celebrex, and Vioxx) and non-selective non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2020). Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Drug Safety Communication - Avoid use of NSAIDs in pregnancy at 20 weeks or later.
U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2022). FDA recommends avoiding use of NSAIDs in pregnancy at 20 weeks or later because they can result in low amniotic fluid.
Zarghi, A., et al. (2011). Selective COX-2 inhibitors: A review of their structure-activity relationships. Iranian Journal of Pharmaceutical Research.
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