How to Take Celebrex: Side Effects, Dosage
Learn how to take Celebrex as directed — dosage, common side effects, cardiovascular and GI precautions, and when to consult your doctor.
Not medical advice. Speak with a healthcare professional before using any medication.
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Updated Feb, 15
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Information sourced from FDA-approved prescribing information and peer-reviewed medical references.
How to Take Celebrex
How to Take Celebrex
The following information reflects FDA-approved prescribing information for Celebrex (celecoxib). Always follow your prescriber's specific instructions:
- Per FDA-approved prescribing information, typical adult doses:
• Osteoarthritis: 200 mg once daily or 100 mg twice daily
• Rheumatoid arthritis: 100–200 mg twice daily
• Acute pain or menstrual pain: 400 mg for the first dose, then 200 mg once if needed on day 1, followed by 200 mg twice daily as needed for the next few days
- Per FDA-approved prescribing information, juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (age 2+):
• 10–25 kg (22–55 lb): 50 mg twice daily
• Over 25 kg (55 lb+): 100 mg twice daily
- Swallow capsules whole: Do not crush or open them.
- Per FDA-approved prescribing information, if you miss a dose: Take it when you remember unless it is close to the next dose. Do not double up.
- Per FDA-approved prescribing information, avoid extra NSAIDs: Do not take ibuprofen or naproxen at the same time unless your clinician specifically approves.
- Stay well‑hydrated: Drink water regularly while using this medication.
- When to take it: Choose morning or evening based on comfort; be consistent each day.
If your doctor gave you a different dose, follow their plan — they may adjust it for your health conditions or other medicines.
Warnings Before Taking Celebrex
BLACK BOX WARNING: Per FDA-approved prescribing information, NSAIDs including celecoxib cause an increased risk of serious cardiovascular thrombotic events, including myocardial infarction and stroke, which can be fatal. This risk may occur early in treatment and may increase with duration of use. Celecoxib is contraindicated in the setting of coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery. NSAIDs also cause an increased risk of serious gastrointestinal adverse events including bleeding, ulceration, and perforation of the stomach or intestines, which can be fatal. These events can occur at any time during use and without warning symptoms. Elderly patients and patients with a prior history of peptic ulcer disease and/or GI bleeding are at greater risk.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, avoid if you've had allergic reactions to NSAIDs or sulfa drugs.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, let your doctor know about heart disease, stroke, kidney or liver issues.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, use caution if you have stomach ulcers or GI bleeding history.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, celecoxib can cause fetal harm. Discuss pregnancy or breastfeeding before starting. Starting at 20 weeks gestation or later, use of NSAIDs may cause fetal renal dysfunction and other fetal complications.
Celebrex Side Effects
Common
Mild
Stomach Pain or Indigestion
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, celecoxib can cause gastrointestinal adverse effects including stomach discomfort, bloating, or heartburn. Serious GI events including bleeding, ulceration, and perforation can occur; contact your prescriber if severe stomach pain develops.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information. Contact your prescriber if side effects persist or worsen.
Normally lasts for:
2–6 hours
Common
Mild
Nausea
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, some people feel queasy or slightly sick to their stomach, especially when first starting the medication.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information. Contact your prescriber if side effects persist or worsen.
Normally lasts for:
1–3 hours
Common
Mild
Headache
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, headache is a commonly reported effect where you may notice a dull or pressure-like headache.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information. Contact your prescriber if side effects persist or worsen.
Normally lasts for:
2–4 hours
Common
Moderate
Swelling in Legs or Feet
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, celecoxib may cause fluid retention, leading to ankle, foot, or lower-leg swelling. Contact your prescriber if swelling is significant or worsening.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information. Contact your prescriber if side effects persist or worsen.
Normally lasts for:
12–24 hours
Common
Mild
Dizziness
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, you may feel lightheaded or unsteady, especially when standing up quickly.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information. Contact your prescriber if side effects persist or worsen.
Normally lasts for:
30 minutes–2 hours
Common
Moderate
Increased Blood Pressure
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, NSAIDs including celecoxib can raise blood pressure. Some people notice higher readings over time. Monitor blood pressure regularly and inform your prescriber of any changes.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information. Contact your prescriber if side effects persist or worsen.
Normally lasts for:
4–12 hours
Contact Us for a Personalized Care Plan
Have questions about compounding? Contact Voshell's Pharmacy — we prepare patient-specific medications pursuant to valid prescriptions from your licensed prescriber.
What If You Forgot to Take Celebrex
If You Forgot to Take Celebrex
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, if you miss a dose of Celebrex, take it as soon as you remember. If it is already close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed one and return to your usual schedule.
Do not double up to make up for a forgotten dose.
If you miss doses often, consider using reminders to help keep your routine consistent.
What If You Took Too Much Celebrex
What If You Took Too Much Celebrex?
If more than the prescribed amount was taken, contact Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 right away. For children or if a large amount was ingested, seek urgent medical care immediately.
Do not use additional doses until you have spoken with Poison Control or a clinician.
- If symptoms such as GI bleeding, severe stomach pain, kidney injury signs (decreased urination, swelling), or chest pain occur, seek emergency medical care.
Keep this and all medications out of reach of children.
How Much Does Celebrex Cost
Celebrex Cost With Insurance
With many U.S. insurance plans, the out‑of‑pocket cost for Celebrex can vary. Your exact cost depends on your specific plan, deductible, and pharmacy contracts. Some insurers also cover the generic form (celecoxib), which may reduce your cost.
Prices vary by pharmacy, dose, location, and insurance plan and may have changed since this page was written. Contact your pharmacy or insurance provider for current pricing.
How Much Does Celebrex Cost without Insurance
Typical Cost of Celebrex Without Insurance
The price can vary widely depending on the pharmacy and the capsule strength. Generic celecoxib is usually less expensive than brand-name Celebrex. Prices differ by location, dosage, and pharmacy discount programs.
Prices vary by pharmacy, dose, location, and insurance plan and may have changed since this page was written. Contact your pharmacy or insurance provider for current pricing.
