Celecoxib
Celecoxib, sold as Celebrex, is a COX-2 inhibitor that eases pain and swelling from osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and short-term conditions. Celebrex is the only product listed here, in 100 mg and 200 mg capsules.
Key points
- Celecoxib is an NSAID also used for ankylosing spondylitis and juvenile rheumatoid arthritis in children aged 2 and older.
- All non-aspirin NSAIDs, including celecoxib, carry a boxed warning for increased risk of heart attack and stroke; the risk rises with dose and duration.
- Celecoxib is not suitable if you are allergic to sulfa medications, aspirin or other NSAIDs.
How does celecoxib work?
Celecoxib blocks an enzyme called COX-2, which the body uses to produce the chemicals that cause pain and inflammation. Reducing those chemicals eases the swelling, tenderness and stiffness that come with Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis. It sits in the Pain & Anti-inflammatories category as a selective COX-2 inhibitor.
Further reading
What is celecoxib used for?
Celecoxib is used to ease pain and swelling from osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and short-term conditions. It is also used for ankylosing spondylitis and juvenile rheumatoid arthritis in children aged 2 and older.
How long does celecoxib take to work?
Celecoxib starts working within 1 to 2 hours. Its effects last for 12 to 24 hours.
What are the side effects of celecoxib?
Common side effects include indigestion (dyspepsia), diarrhoea and abdominal pain. Other side effects can include peripheral oedema, hypertension and dizziness. Serious side effects include myocardial infarction and severe gastrointestinal bleeding, which require immediate medical attention.
Can celecoxib be taken with other medicines?
Celecoxib can interact with warfarin, aspirin and fluconazole. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before taking it with other medicines.
Who should not take celecoxib?
Celecoxib is not suitable if you have a sulphonamide allergy, or if you are allergic to aspirin or other NSAIDs. It is also not suitable after recent coronary artery bypass graft surgery or if you have a history of aspirin-induced asthma.
Which celecoxib products does Direct Meds sell?
On Direct Meds, celecoxib comes as Celebrex. Compare their forms, strengths and packs.
How much does celecoxib cost in South Africa?
Compare the rand prices for each product, strength and pack above. Prices are converted from US dollars.
Payment and prices →Is celecoxib available over the counter in South Africa?
Yes, online. Direct Meds does not ask for a prescription to order celecoxib. We are a broker, not a dispensing pharmacy. We arrange orders and delivery with our affiliated supplier on your behalf.
Ordering without a prescription →Do you deliver celecoxib to South Africa?
Yes. Our affiliated supplier delivers across South Africa. Estimated delivery is 7 days with Express Delivery, which includes online tracking, or up to 3 weeks with Regular Delivery.
How ordering works →