Celebrex

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How should you take this medication?

Take Celebrex exactly as prescribed. You can take it with or without food.

--If you miss a dose...

Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take 2 doses at the same time.

--Storage instructions...

Store at room temperature.

What side effects may occur?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Celebrex.

• More common side effects may include:
  Abdominal pain, diarrhea, headache, indigestion, nausea, respiratory infection, sinus inflammation

Why should this drug not be prescribed?

Do not take Celebrex right before or after heart bypass surgery (also called coronary artery bypass graft, or CABG).

In addition, you should not use Celebrex if you are allergic to sulfonamide drugs such as sulfadiazine, sulfisoxazole, Gantanol, and Thiosulfil. Also avoid the drug if you've ever suffered an asthma attack, face and throat swelling, or skin eruptions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs. If you find that you are allergic to Celebrex, you will not be able to use it.

Special warnings about this medication

Remember to tell your doctor about any stomach ulcers or bleeding you've had in the past. Also alert your doctor if you develop any digestive problems, swelling, or rash. The chance of developing a stomach ulcer or bleeding while taking Celebrex increases if you also take steroid drugs or blood thinners, smoke, drink alcohol, or use Celebrex or other NSAID medications for a long time. The risk is also greater if you're older or in poor health. Be sure the doctor is aware of your full medical history.

If you have asthma, use Celebrex with caution. It could trigger an attack, especially if you are also sensitive to aspirin.

If you are taking a steroid medication for your arthritis, do not discontinue it abruptly when you begin therapy with Celebrex. Celebrex is not a substitute for such drugs.

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