Reactions to Celebrex

Celebrex is a nonsterioidal anti-inflammatory medication (NSAID) available by prescription only and is used for the treatment of many medical conditions. The most common treatments for which Celebrex is prescribed are arthritis, fibromyalgia and pain management. Celebrex is manufactured by the pharmaceutical company Pfizer and was approved by the FDA in 1998. Celebrex is a tablet that is taken by mouth daily.

Dosage

• To reduce the risk of side effects or reactions to Celebrex, it is important that you take it exactly as prescribed. Follow the directions on the label, and do not skip or adjust your dosage without your doctor's permission. To avoid the reaction of upset stomach, take Celebrex with a glass of milk or a meal. Store Celebrex at room temperature and away from heat.

Overdose

• Do not double up on your dosage of Celebrex, as this may cause an overdose. It is important that you seek immediate medical care if you suspect you have overdosed on this medicine. Overdose reactions include stomach pain, coughing up blood, difficulty breathing, fainting, nausea, vomiting or coma.

Reactions

• Several reactions to Celebrex are mild to moderate and do not require that you stop taking the medication. Some are more serious and require immediate medical emergency treatment. If you experience any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor. Minor reactions to Celebrex include skin rash, upset stomach, heartburn, indigestion or dizziness. Serious reactions to Celebrex that require immediate medical attention include chest pain, swelling or coughing up blood, shortness of breath, sudden weight gain and black or bloody stools.

Interactions

• If you suffer from asthma, or have a history of kidney or heart trouble, share that information with your doctor before taking Celebrex. For those who suffer from liver problems, Celebrex may only be taken under a doctor's supervision. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding or expect to soon become pregnant, do not take Celebrex. Do not take Celebrex if you have a stomach ulcer or are currently taking blood thinners. Be sure your doctor knows if you have been diagnosed with hypertension before he prescribes Celebrex.

Warning

• As is the case with taking any NSAID, the chance of having a heart attack or stroke that may cause death to occur is increased by taking Celebrex. Never take Celebrex after or directly following a heart attack or having a surgical procedure. A very serious condition that may lead to death is the possibility of Celebrex causing serious skin conditions, bleeding or ucers. Share your full medical history with your doctor before taking Celebrex.