Celecoxib

About celecoxib

Celecoxib works by preventing the production of irritant chemicals that cause pain and inflammation in the body.

It is a member of a group of medicines called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. This is abbreviated to NSAIDs. Other NSAIDs include aspirin, ibuprofen, indometacin, naproxen and diclofenac. It is also known as a cyclo-oxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitor.

Before taking celecoxib

Before taking celecoxib make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you suffer from liver or kidney problems.
• If you suffer from angina, heart disease or narrowing of the arteries.
• If you suffer from hypertension (high blood pressure).
• If you suffer from swelling particularly of the ankles and lower legs.
• If you have ever had an unusual reaction (such as an asthma attack, swelling of the face or mouth, or itching) from taking aspirin or another NSAID.
• If you suffer from peptic (stomach) ulcer or inflammatory bowel disease.
• If you suffer from gastrointestinal bleeding (vomiting blood or passing stools which contain blood).
• If you have ever had blood clotting problems.
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine, and in particular to a group of antibacterial medicines called sulphonamides.
• If you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.

How to take celecoxib

• Take celecoxib exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Before buying any medicines, check with your pharmacist which are safe for you to take alongside celecoxib. Do not take other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents (such as ibuprofen, diclofenac, naproxen or indomethacin) with celecoxib.
• If you do not feel any improvement in your symptoms after two weeks of taking celecoxib, talk to your doctor.
• Keep your regular appointments with your doctor so your progress can be monitored.

Can celecoxib cause problems

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

How to store celecoxib

• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines