Celecoxib

Generic Name Celecoxib

Brand Name Celebrex

Classification PHARMACOTHERAPEUTIC: NSAID.

CLINICAL: Anti-inflammatory.
Uses Relief of signs/symptoms of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis
(RA) in adults. Treatment of acute pain, primary dysmenorrhea.
Relief of signs/symptoms associated with ankylosing spondylitis
General Action Inhibits cyclooxygenase-2, the enzyme responsible for
prostaglandin synthesis.
Therapeutic Effect: Reduces inflammation, relieves pain
Interactions DRUG: May decrease antihypertensive effect of ACE inhibitors
and angiotensin II antagonists. Fluconazole may significantly
increase concentration. May increase lithium concentration.
Warfarin may increase risk of bleeding. Aspirin may increase
risk of celecoxib-induced GI ulceration, other GI complications.
HERBAL: Avoid herbs with anticoagulant or antiplatelet
activity (e.g., evening primrose, garlic, ginger, ginseng). FOOD:
None known. LAB VALUES: May increase serum ALT, AST,
alkaline phosphatase, creatinine,
Indications/Routes/Dosage Osteoarthritis PO: ADULTS, ELDERLY: 200 mg/day as a
single dose or 100 mg twice a day.
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) PO: ADULTS, ELDERLY: 100–200
mg twice a day.
Availability (Rx) Capsules: 50 mg, 100 mg, 200 mg, 400 mg. ADMINIST
Side effects Frequent (16%–5%): Diarrhea, dyspepsia, headache, upper
respiratory tract infection. Occasional (less than 5%):
Abdominal pain, flatulence, nausea, back pain, peripheral
 edema, dizziness, insomnia, rash.
Adverse Effects/Toxic Increased risk of cardiovascular events, (MI, CVA), serious,
Reactions potentially lifethreatening GI bleeding
Nursing Considerations Assess onset, type, location, duration of pain/inflammation.
Inspect appearance of affected joints for immobility, deformity,
skin condition. Assess for allergy to sulfa, aspirin, or NSAIDs
(contraindicated).
Assess for therapeutic response: pain relief; decreased stiffness,
swelling; increased joint mobility; reduced joint tenderness;
improved grip strength. Observe for bleeding, bruising, weight
gain.

PATIENT/FAMILY TEACHING
• If GI upset occurs, take with food.
• Avoid aspirin, alcohol (increases risk of GI bleeding).
• Immediately report chest pain, jaw pain, sweating, confusion,
difficulty speaking, one sided weakness (may indicate heart
attack or stroke).

Source: Saunders Nursing Drug Handbook 2016