Celecoxib

What is Celecoxib used for?

Celecoxib is a selective COX-2 inhibitor NSAID that works by blocking the COX-2 enzyme responsible for pain and inflammation, relieving pain and swelling from arthritis, menstrual cramps, and post-surgical pain. It tends to cause less gastrointestinal irritation than traditional NSAIDs, but still carries cardiovascular and GI risks and should be taken only as directed by a doctor.

How to take Celecoxib and adjust the dose

Dosing is prescribed individually by a doctor: for osteoarthritis, typically 200mg daily (as a single dose or split into two); for rheumatoid arthritis, 100–200mg twice daily; for ankylosing spondylitis, 200mg daily (may be split), with some patients up to 400mg; for acute pain (e.g. post-surgical), 400mg on day one, with an additional 200mg if needed, then 200mg twice daily from day two. Maximum daily dose is generally 400mg. Taking it with food may reduce stomach upset. This dosing information is compiled from general (non-HK-official) drug references; follow your doctor's/pharmacist's actual prescription.

Celecoxib side effects

• Common: abdominal pain, indigestion, diarrhoea, dizziness, headache
• Serious (rare but important): heart attack, stroke, GI bleeding or perforation, severe allergic/skin reactions (e.g. Stevens-Johnson syndrome), liver/kidney impairment

Who should not take Celecoxib?

• Contraindicated in known hypersensitivity to celecoxib or sulfonamides
• Contraindicated if asthma, urticaria, or allergic reactions have been triggered by aspirin or other NSAIDs
• Contraindicated in active peptic ulcer or GI bleeding
• Contraindicated in severe heart failure or in the setting of coronary artery bypass graft surgery
• Avoid in pregnancy (especially late pregnancy); use with caution and medical advice while breastfeeding
• Dose adjustment/caution needed in renal or hepatic impairment