Joint Pain Medications - Celebrex and Side Effects

Celebrex (Celecoxib) is the only COX-2 Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID) currently on the market after Vioxx (Refecoxib) and Bextra (Valdecoxib) were taken off the market. Celebrex is usually prescribed for Rheumatoid Arthritis and Osteoarthritis, and has been on the marker since 1998.

NSAIDS work by blocking the performance of an inflammation causing enzyme, cyclooxygenase (COX). COX-2 NSAIDS are involved in the inflammation pathway.

Celebrex is considered less likely to cause stomach problems that other NSAIDS are attributed to. However, all NSAIDS, COX-2 or otherwise, have a risk of high blood pressure, kidney disease, fluid retention and heart problems.

Celebrex comes in two strengths -- 100 mg and 200 mg. The usual recommended daily dose for osteoarthritis is 200 mg, taken as a single dose or in 100 mg doses twice a day. Your doctor will decide the appropriate dose for you and your condition, and would prescribe Celebrex for you to relieve joint pain and inflammation associated osteo or rheumatoid arthritis.

People who have allergic reactions to sulfa or are aspirin sensitive should not take Celebrex.

In April 2005, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a warning that taking Celebrex and other NSAIDS increased cardiovascular risks like stroke and heart attacks. The FDA further advised physicians to carefully consider the potential benefits and risks of Celebrex and other treatment options before a decision is made to prescribe Celebrex.

Some of the common side effects that may be associated with Celebrex include:

Headache

Indigestion

Upper respiratory tract infection

Diarrhea

Sinus inflammation

Stomach pain or nausea

Bleeding stomach ulcers

Liver Damage

Kidney Damage

Fluid Retention

High Blood Pressure

It is important to tell your doctors about all other medications you take. Other medications may affect how Celebrex works and Celebrex may affect how the other medications work. So given the history of COX-2 NSAIDS while in the world would a person take these prescription drugs without trying less invasive possible solutions like pharmaceutical grade Glucosamine and Fish Oil (Omega 3 Fatty Acids)?