Celebrex is in a group of drugs called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). It works by reducing hormones that cause inflammation and pain.
rnCelebrex is used to treat pain or inflammation caused by many conditions such as arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and menstrual pain. It is also used in the treatment of hereditary polyps in the colon
rnCelebrex may also be used for other purposes not listed.

The health and medical information provided here is for general purposes only and is not a substitute for the expertise and judgment of your physician, or other health care professional. It should not be understood to indicate that the use of this medicine is safe, appropriate or effective for you. Always consult your health care professional before using this, or any other, drug.

Celebrex can increase your risk of life-threatening heart or circulation problems, including heart attack or stroke. This risk will increase the longer you use Celebrex. Do not use this medicine just before or after having heart bypass surgery (also called coronary artery bypass graft, or CABG).
rnSeek emergency medical help if you have symptoms of heart or circulation problems, such as chest pain, weakness, shortness of breath, slurred speech, or problems with vision or balance.
rnThis medicine can also increase your risk of serious effects on the stomach or intestines, including bleeding or perforation (forming of a hole). These conditions can be fatal and gastrointestinal effects can occur without warning at any time while you are taking Celebrex. Older adults may have an even greater risk of these serious gastrointestinal side effects.
rnCall your doctor at once if you have symptoms of bleeding in your stomach or intestines. This includes black, bloody, or tarry stools, or coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds.
rnDo not drink alcohol while taking Celebrex. Alcohol can increase the risk of stomach bleeding caused by Celebrex. Do not use any other over-the-counter cold, allergy, or pain medication without first asking your doctor or pharmacist. Many pain medicines available over the counter contain aspirin or other medicines similar to Celebrex. If you take certain products together you may accidentally take too much of this type of medication.

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Stop taking Celebrex and seek medical attention or call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:
rnchest pain, weakness, shortness of breath, slurred speech, problems with vision or balance;
rnblack, bloody, or tarry stools;
rncoughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds;
rnswelling or rapid weight gain;
rnurinating less than usual or not at all;
rnnausea, stomach pain, low fever, loss of appetite, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes);
rnfever, sore throat, and headache with a severe blistering, peeling, and red skin rash; or
rnbruising, severe tingling, numbness, pain, muscle weakness.
rnLess serious Celebrex side effects may include:
rnupset stomach, mild heartburn, diarrhea, constipation;
rnbloating, gas;
rndizziness, nervousness, headache;
rnskin rash, itching;
rnblurred vision; or
rnringing in your ears.

Take Celebrex exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take the medication in larger amounts, or take it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label.
rnTake Celebrex with food or milk to lessen stomach upset.
rnYou may open the Celebrex capsule and sprinkle the medicine into a spoonful of applesauce to make swallowing easier. Discard the empty capsule. Swallow the medicine and applesauce mixture with water and avoid chewing. If you do not take the mixture right away, keep it in the refrigerator and take it within 6 hours.
rnIf you take Celebrex for a long period of time, your doctor may want to check you on a regular basis to make sure this medication is not causing harmful effects. Do not miss any scheduled appointments.
rnThis medication can cause you to have unusual results with certain medical tests. Tell any doctor who treats you that you are using Celebrex.