What You Should Know Before Taking Celebrex

Celebrex is a prescription medicine that provides day and night relief from pain, swelling and stiffness caused by arthritis. Celebrex is also effective in the relief of acute pain in adults, especially after surgery.

Celebrex relieves pain by targeting specific enzymes in the body, known as COX-2 enzymes. What makes Celebrex so different from other drugs is that it only targets COX-2 enzymes, where as most pain relievers target both the COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes. The COX-1 enzyme is required by the body to protect the lining of the stomach.

Like any other medication Celebrex can have side effects; some of these are indigestion, diarrhea and stomach pain. These symptoms were not common among patients who trialed the drug.

The other associated risks involved with taking Celebrex are an increased risk of heart attacks, strokes, skin reactions, stomach and intestinal problems, which are potentially deadly side effects. A patients history and health issues will depend a lot on whether they will be able to take this drug. It is advisable to discuss any concerns and possible side effects thoroughly with a health care professional, such as a doctor before taking.

Celebrex may take time to work effectively. It is important to take Celebrex as directed by your doctor, and continue until a follow up appointment to determine how well it has worked. It is often recommended that patients taking medications such as Celebrex keep a journal or record of their days in the time between consultations with a doctor.

Studies of Celebrex have not been preformed on pregnant women, it is suggested that if the patient is pregnant they should only take medication on their doctors advice. Since the effects on the unborn embryo are not known. Women who are in their third trimester of pregnancy or breast-feeding an infant should avoid taking Celebrex.

Other people who should not take Celebrex are those who have had an allergic reaction to medications such as aspirins and anti-inflammatory drugs, have a heart condition or have had surgery for a coronary artery bypass graft.

Pain is an important part of the body's function. Long-term pain however, can cause serious damage to a patient's emotional and physical health. Celebrex has been created to ease long-term pain and arthritis symptoms. If left untreated the symptoms of severe pain can cause serious health problems.

By talking to a doctor a patient can begin their first steps to getting relief from the associated symptoms that come with long-term pain. It is important the patient speaks with a doctor they feel comfortable with, to further assess their compatibility with Celebrex.

Disclaimer: The information presented here should not be interpreted as or substituted for medical advice. Please talk to a qualified professional for more information about Celebrex.