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What are the side effects of Celebrex?

Celebrex (generic name celecoxib) is medication that treats the pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Celebrex belongs to a class of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) known as COX-2 inhibitors. Celebrex and other COX-2 inhibitors are effective in treating pain and inflammation but are less likely to cause serious stomach side effects (stomach ulcers and bleeding, for example) than other NSAIDs such as ibuprofen (Motrin) and naproxen (Naprosyn).

The most common side effects of Celebrex are nausea, diarrhea, heartburn and still include upset stomach and stomach pain.. In rare cases, Celebrex may cause stomach ulcers or stomach bleeding. Using the lowest effective dose for only as long as you have pain may lower your risk of these side effects.

You should not take Celebrex if you have an allergy to aspirin or other NSAIDs. Nor should you take it if you have allergies to sulfa medications, such as co-trimoxazole (Bactrim). People with kidney disease or a history of ulcers may be more likely to experience side effects from Celebrex.

Sources
Micromedex Healthcare Series. Micromedex, Inc., 2001.
Celebrex Product Information, Searle Inc., 1999.

This answer prepared 1/11/01.