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What is Celebrex Used For?
Celebrex, also known as celecoxib, is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that offers relief from inflammation and pain caused by arthritis and other conditions. While it does not cure arthritis, it alleviates symptoms such as swelling, stiffness, and joint pain.
Celebrex was FDA-approved in 1998 to provide relief from the following conditions:
- Osteoarthritis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis in patients two years and older
- Ankylosing spondylitis
- Acute pain
- Primary dysmenorrhea
By easing symptoms of these conditions, Celebrex can improve quality of life. If you are considering Celebrex as a treatment option, it is crucial to consult your doctor first. They will assess your symptoms and determine if Celebrex is the right fit for you. When it comes time to fill your prescription, using a reputable online Canadian pharmacy like My Drug Center can help you save up to 90% on prescription costs.
How Does Celebrex Work?
Celebrex blocks the production of molecules that can cause discomfort and swelling in the body. Specifically, Celebrex inhibits the enzyme cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2).
COX-2 is responsible for producing compounds called prostaglandins that increase sensitivity to pain and promote inflammation. By blocking COX-2, Celebrex reduces the production of prostaglandins, which decreases pain and swelling.
Celebrex Dosages
Celebrex is an oral capsule that comes in four strengths: 50 mg, 100 mg, 200 mg, and 400 mg,
The dosage you receive will depend on the specific condition being treated. While we have included the FDA-recommended dosages below, it is important to note that your doctor will ultimately determine the appropriate dosage based on factors such as your liver function and symptoms. The goal with Celebrex treatment is to use the lowest effective dose that manages your symptoms and use it for the shortest duration.
- Osteoarthritis: 200 mg once daily or 100 mg twice daily.
- Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in adults: 100 to 200 mg twice daily.
- Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in children between 10 and 25 kg: 50 mg twice daily.
- Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in children more than 25 kg: 100 mg twice daily.
- Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS): 200 mg once daily or 100 mg twice daily. If no improvement occurs after six weeks, the dose may be increased to 400 mg daily.
- Acute pain and primary dysmenorrhea (PD): 400 mg on the first day and 200 mg twice daily afterward.
Celebrex Drug Interactions
When starting a new medication like Celebrex, it's important to have an open conversation with your doctor about any other medicines you are taking. Celebrex can interact with some medications, so your doctor needs to know about all your prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
Some Celebrex medication interactions to be aware of include:
- Drugs that interfere with homeostasis (such as warfarin, aspirin, SSRIs, and SNRIs): When combined with Celebrex, these medications may increase the risk of bleeding. To mitigate this risk, your doctor will closely monitor you for any signs of bleeding.
- ACE inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs): If you are using these medications alongside Celebrex, their antihypertensive effects may be reduced. Additionally, in elderly individuals, those with volume depletion, or those with renal impairments, combining these drugs with Celebrex can potentially lead to a deterioration of kidney function. To manage these risks, your doctor will monitor your blood pressure and keep an eye out for any signs of worsening renal function.
- Beta-blockers: When taken with Celebrex, beta-blockers may have a diminished antihypertensive effect. Your doctor will monitor your blood pressure closely to ensure it remains in check.
- Diuretics: Celebrex can potentially reduce the effectiveness of diuretics. Your doctor will monitor the effectiveness of these medications while you are taking Celebrex.
- Digoxin: Combining Celebrex with digoxin can result in increased concentration and half-life of digoxin in your body. To prevent any complications, your doctor will monitor your digoxin levels closely.
FAQs
What is Celebrex?
Celebrex is an oral medication that can help relieve pain and swelling from conditions like arthritis, acute pain, and menstrual discomfort. It belongs to a class of drugs called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and works by inhibiting an enzyme called COX-2.
How long does it take for Celebrex to work?
The amount of time it takes Celebrex to reduce pain and inflammation varies from person to person. Many individuals find relief from their symptoms within a couple of days. However, others might not experience complete pain relief until two weeks after starting treatment.
Does Celebrex cause side effects?
Celebrex can cause side effects in some people. If you experience any persistent or serious side effects, contact your doctor immediately.
Common side effects include:
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhea
- Increased gas
- Swelling in legs
- Dizziness
- Sore throat
- Sinusitis
- Rash
- Upper respiratory tract infection
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