Celebrex

celecoxib

Celebrex is among the non- steroidal anti- inflammatory drug (NSAID) and as such, it is used to relieve inflammations and pain. Celebrex is used in the treatment of acute pain, arthritis, discomfort and menstrual pain. In addition, Celebrex is used in the reduction of growths in the intestines of people that have family histories of the condition. The drug blocks the enzymes in the body that are responsible for making of prostaglandins and a decrease in the levels of prostaglandins is useful in reducing swelling and fever.

The new generation of NSAIDs to which Celebrex belongs normally blocks, selectively, COX-2 action. The result of this is that it the production of prostaglandins that are inflammatory without putting a stop to the production of any prostaglandins that are responsible for the protection of the stomach and the intestines. Thus it helps to reduce inflammation and pain, while at the same time having less likelihood of causing side effects on the intestines and stomach as the traditional NDAIDS. Celebrex was approved 1 year ago for use to manage arthritis pain since it is an anti-inflammatory agent as well as a COX- 2 inhibitor. The drug is very similar to NSAIDS such as ibuprophen and aspirin. The NSAIDS block inflamed tissue- induced enzymes, specifically COX- 1 and COX-2. Cancerous polyps located in the intestines are also responsible for the production of these enzymes. Celecoxib normally does not show a lot of evidence that it causes gastric problems because it inhibits specifically only C0X- 2.

Effective dosage

The dosage of Celebrex should be as low as possible. A dose of 200mg taken at once, or 100mg taken twice a day should be used for managing osteoarthritis. A dose of either 100mg or 200mg is given twice every day when the drug is used to manage rheumatoid arthritis. A dosage of 400mg on the first day is given for menstrual cramps or acute pain. This dosage may then be followed by an addition of 200mg if deemed necessary. For FAP (Familial Adenomatous Polyposis), a dosage of 400mg taken twice daily is recommended.

Many people are however able to get relief for 24hours from a single 200mg dosage. It is important that you consume the drug for the shortest time possible while taking the lowest of dosages according to the goals of your treatment.

Celebrex should be consumed orally according to the directions given by the doctor. Ideally, Celebrex should be taken with food in order to lower chances of stomach upsets. In addition, the medication should be taken with 240ml or 8 oz of water, which is the equivalent of a full glass. After you have taken this medication, you should avoid lying down for a minimum period of 30 minutes. Sometimes, like in the case of arthritis, any significant effects of consuming the drug may take as long as 2 weeks before they are felt. You should note that pain medications are most effective when they are used at the first signs of pain, especially for the people that consume this drug without any regular schedule. Celebrex may not be as effective if one waits until the pain has worsened.

There are very many people who consume Celebrex without any dosing schedule. In case you happen to miss a scheduled dosage of Celebrex, do not take double dosage at you next intake. Just take the missed dosage as soon as you remember to do so, on condition that it is not yet time for your next intake. Otherwise simply skip it.

Celebrex Side effects

You should not stop consuming Celebrex if any of the following side effects are experienced. They are diarrhea or flatulence, insomnia, headaches or dizziness. Gas or stomach upsets may also occur. You should inform your doctor in case any of the above effects become worse or persist. In addition, there are a number of other side effects which, although not common, are very serious. They include inexplicable weight gain, severe headaches, the swelling of feet and hands and changes in the quantity of urine.

In case you have allergy for any of the ingredients in Celebrex you should not consume it. In addition, you should not use Celebrex if you are more than 6 months pregnant, you will be having or have had heart bypass surgery, you have serious liver problems, you have severe allergies to aspirin, NSAIDs, or sulfonamide.

Celebrex may be harmful to the foetus. In addition, birth defects may result if the drug is consumed in pregnancy that is less than 3 months due. Celebrex may also affect nursing babies since it is known to pass into breast milk. Unless advised to do so by a doctor, children below 2 years of age should not be given the drug.