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IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.

CELECOXIB - ORAL

(sell-eh-COX-ib)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Celebrex

WARNING: Rarely, this medication can cause serious (very rarely fatal) stomach/intestinal bleeding. Also, this medication and related drugs have rarely caused blood clots to form, resulting in possibly fatal heart attacks and strokes. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about the benefits and risks of treatment, as well as other medication choices.

If you notice any of these rare but very serious side effects, stop taking celecoxib and seek immediate medical attention: coffee-ground vomit, black stools, persistent stomach/abdominal pain, chest pain, weakness on one side of the body, slurred speech, sudden vision changes.

This medication should not be used right before or after heart bypass surgery.

USES: This medication is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), specifically a COX-2 inhibitor, which relieves pain and swelling (inflammation). It is used to treat arthritis, acute pain, and menstrual pain and discomfort. The pain and swelling relief provided by this medication helps you perform more of your normal daily activities.

This drug works by blocking the enzyme in your body that makes prostaglandins. Decreasing prostaglandins helps to reduce pain and swelling.

HOW TO USE: Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you start using celecoxib and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions regarding the information, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Take by mouth, usually once or twice daily, or as directed by your doctor. To decrease the chance of stomach upset, this drug is best taken with food. Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. The lowest effective dosage should always be used, and only for the prescribed length of time (see also Warning section).

Take this medication with a full glass of water (8 ounces or 240 milliliters) unless your doctor directs you otherwise. Do not lie down for 10 minutes after taking this medication.

In certain conditions (e.g., arthritis), it may take up to two weeks, taken regularly, before significant benefits of this drug take effect.

If you are taking this drug on an "as needed" basis (not on a regular schedule), remember that pain medications work best if they are used as the first signs of pain occur. If you wait until the pain has significantly worsened, the medicine may not work as well.