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What Is Celebrex For?

Celebrex is a non-sterioid anti-inflammatory medication available by prescription for the treatment of many medical conditions, including arthritis, fibromyalgia and pain management. Manufactured by Pfizer and approved by the FDA in 1998, Celebrex is a tablet which is taken orally.

  1. Celebrex and Arthritis

    • Celebrex is most commonly prescribed for arthritis (inflammation of the joints). It is most often prescribed for conditions such as osteoarthritis, spinal rheumatoid arthritis, bursitis, tendenitis and rheumatoid arthritis. Celebrex works on arthritic conditions by blocking the body's ability for joint swelling to flare up or become inflamed.

    Celebrex and Pain

    • Because it is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAIDs) that works to treat pain and reduce swelling, Celebrex is often prescribed as a pain medication or for extreme menstrual cramping. Celebrex works much the same way Motrin or Aleve would but in a stronger dosage.

    Side Effects

    • Celebrex may cause some minor side effects such as heartburn, upset stomach, dizziness or skin rash. It is important that you tell your doctor about any conditions which you believe may be associated with your taking Celebrex. Major side effects include chest pain, shortness of breath, swelling, coughing up blood, rapid weight gain or black, bloody stools. For major side effects, seek emergency medical care.

    Precautions

    • Celebrex should not be taken if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have a stomach ulcer or a history of ulcers or are currently taking a blood thinner. Be careful using Celebrex if you suffer from asthma or have a history of kidney or heart problems. Do not take Celebrex if you have liver problems unless under a doctor's strict supervision. Tell your doctor if you suffer from hypertension before taking Celebrex.

    Warning

    • As with all non-steroidal anti-inflammatory prescriptions, using Celebrex may increase the chance of heart attack or stroke that may lead to death. Celebrex should never be used following a cardiac arrest or surgery. Sometimes Celebrex may cause serious skin conditions, bleeding or ulcers, which may lead to death. Talk with your doctor about further side effects of using Celebrex.

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