Hey Hopey. I was just prescribed Celebrex too!! I'm very anxious to see how well it helps b/c i have constant back pain and have tried several meds that haven't given ANY relief. I started the Celebrex today, 600 mgs. And will take 400 mgs/day after today. The dr DID say it can take a few days to start feeling relief from it. I hope it works for both of us :)
Thanks so much for your reply. Your comments were very helpful.
Hi Hopey,
I understand your concern. I have a close family memeber, (a nurse also) has taken Celebrex daily for a number of years. It is very effective for relieving her severe bi-lateral knee pain and she feels the benefits out weight the risks. She is 49.
Celebrex may cause an increased risk of serious cardiovascular thrombotic events, myocardial infarction, and stroke, which can be fatal. All nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may have a similar risk. This risk may increase with duration of use.
It is my opinion that each of us have to research the medications we take and make our own decisions based on that research and our comfort levels. Personally I would not take Celebrex long term but I take acetaminophen (tylenol) long term which can be just as risky. So it's an individual decision. Does it significantly help your pain? If it does that would certainly be a large part of my decision process.
I hope my input has been a bit helpful for you. Others will post with their opinions. Best of luck to you and as always, take care.
Tuck