Celebrex is a prescription medication used to treat pain, arthritis, and painful menstrual periods. Celebrex belongs to a group of medications called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). These work by blocking chemicals in the body that cause pain and inflammation.
Celebrex comes in capsule form and is taken by mouth, once or twice daily, with or without food.
Common side effects include stomach pain, upset stomach, and diarrhea.
WARNING: CARDIOVASCULAR AND GASTROINTESTINAL RISKS
Cardiovascular Risk
- This medication may cause an increased risk of serious cardiovascular thrombotic events, myocardial infarction, and stroke, which can be fatal. All nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may have a similar risk. This risk may increase with duration of use. Patients with cardiovascular disease or risk factors for cardiovascular disease may be at greater risk.
- Celebrex is contraindicated for the treatment of peri-operative pain in the setting of coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery.
Gastrointestinal Risk
- NSAIDs, including Celebrex, cause an increased risk of serious gastrointestinal adverse events including bleeding, ulceration, and perforation of the stomach or intestines, which can be fatal. These events can occur at any time during use and without warning symptoms. Elderly patients are at greater risk for serious gastrointestinal events.