Often used for:
N/A
What is celecoxib?
Celecoxib is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to treat acute pain. It is available as 100 mg and 200 mg capsules taken by mouth.
Celecoxib at home
- Take doses as directed, one or two times daily.
- If a dose is missed and it is close to the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose. Do not take two doses at the same time.
- Do not take extra doses to make up for a missed one.
- Follow the doctor's instructions on how long to take the medicine.
Possible side effects
- Mild skin rash
- Muscle or joint pain
- Mild abdominal pain
- Flatulence (gas)
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Heartburn
- Swelling in the hands, ankles, or feet
- Feeling dizzy
- Rash
- Irritated throat
- Runny nose
- Cold-like symptoms or swelling of sinuses
- Upper respiratory tract infections
- Flu-like symptoms
- Allergic reaction symptoms can include itching or hives, swelling of the face, hands, mouth, or throat, chest tightness, or trouble breathing
- Seek medical help for blistering or peeling skin, chest pain, coughing up blood, fast or slow heartbeat, severe stomach pain, vomiting blood or material that looks like coffee grounds, bloody or black stools, dark urine or pale stools, yellow skin or eyes, numbness or weakness on one side of the body, sudden or severe headache, problems with vision, speech, or walking, rapid weight gain, swelling, changes in urination, unusual bleeding or bruising, pain in the calf, shortness of breath, cold sweat, bluish skin, or feeling unusually tired or weak
- These are the most common side effects, but there may be others. Please report all side effects to the doctor or nurse.
- Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, hives, itching, chills, fever, headache, muscle ache, shortness of breath, coughing, tightness in the throat, swelling of the face or neck.
- Not all patients who take celecoxib will experience these side effects. Common side effects are in bold, but there may be others. Please report all suspected side effects to your doctor or pharmacist.
Tips for patients and families
- Celecoxib is usually taken one or two times a day.
- Take with food or milk to help prevent stomach upset.
- If swallowing capsules is difficult, open the capsule, mix with a teaspoon of applesauce, stir well, swallow right away, and drink water to ensure the full dose is taken.
- Do not take more than prescribed and do not use longer than directed by the doctor.
- Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
- Any capsule contents mixed with applesauce may be refrigerated and used within 6 hours.
