COX-2 inhibitor risks and complications

On April 7, 2005 the Food and Drug Administration requested that Pfizer suspend sales of Bextra in the United States. As a result, Bextra will no longer be available to patients in the United States.

For more information on safe use of COX-2 inhibitors and other NSAIDs, please see Understanding COX-2 inhibitor side effects.

As with all medications, COX-2 inhibitors like Celebrex have risks and potential side effects and complications. While a few major risks and potential side effects are outlined here, patients should always read the label and package insert and consult with their physician for a complete understanding of risks and other issues.

Cautions for using Celebrex

Potential risks and complications for COX-2 inhibitors such as Celebrex include:

Patients who are allergic to sulfa drugs should avoid Celebrex.
Any patient who is allergic to aspirin should avoid all COX-2 inhibitors.
There isn't any data on whether or not COX-2 inhibitor drugs are safe in pregnancy or for patients with severe renal disease.
Taking COX-2 inhibitors with antacids or a fatty meal will limit their absorption.

By: Alan J Bridges, MD
December 1999 | Next: Chronic Pain Health Hub

Editorial Note:

In addition, new potential risks and side effects of COX-2 inhibitors and other NSAIDs have been studied. For more information, please see Understanding COX-2 inhibitor side effects.

See related Health Hub:
Chronic pain