Celebrex Overview
Celebrex is one the NSAID or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs marketed today that aims to treat and address symptoms associated with arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis among adults.
This drug works by inhibiting the production of a certain enzyme, COX-2, which is said to cause pain and inflammation among arthritic patients. While this drug presents a viable solution for arthritis symptoms, it is also important to take this drug with extreme care.
Facts
Celebrex is marketed by Pfizer and was approved by FDA on December 31, 2008. As a prescription drug for arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, it comes in different dosages: 50, 100, 200, or 400mg of celecoxib. The dosage will depend on the doctor’s assessment of the level of pain and inflammation experienced by the patient.
It also contains inactive ingredients such as croscarmellose sodium, which helps in the solubility of the drug so it can be absorbed quickly into the system. It also has sodium lauryl sulfate, a substance often used with glucosamine to treat arthritis and joint-related disorders. Other ingredients include edible links, lactose monohydrate, providone and gelatin.
Positive Features
As an FDA-approved prescription drug, Celebrex offers relief to people experiencing pain and inflammation brought about by arthritis and other related disorders. It is also clinically proven to:
- Provide a whole-day relief against pain and inflammation.
- Show significant improvements on arthritis patient’s physical functions as well as reduction of pain and stiffness.
- Less prone to stomach pains, vomiting and nausea compared to those who are taking other NSAID’s such as ibuprofen.
Negative Features
While this drug brings a lot of comfort to those who are in pain due to arthritis, it also poses several health risks. People who are about to take Celebrex should be warned about the following side effects:
- Long term use may cause heart disorders.
- Bleeding in the stomach or intestines.
- Rapid weight gain.
- Nausea, vomiting, dizziness.
- Interaction with other medications.
- May not be safe for pregnant women, lactating women and women who are planning to get pregnant.
As a precaution, patients are advised to talk to their doctors once they notice any of the following side effects. The dosage of the drug should be taken as what the doctor prescribed. Lastly, patients should talk about all their health conditions and medications to their health providers before taking Celebrex.
Conclusion
In general, this drug seems able to deliver on its benefits. As it is approved by FDA and has been clinically-tested, its potential to address pain and inflammation of arthritic patients look very promising. However, with the side effects presented above, it is important to take this drug with extreme care in order to get the most out of its benefits.
