What Are the Most Common Celecoxib Side Effects?

Celecoxib is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is often used to relieve the pain associated with arthritis and menstrual cramps. Most of the common celecoxib side effects are mild, including diarrhea, high blood pressure and heartburn. Some people also experience symptoms of respiratory tract problems, such as a cough, sore throat and runny nose. Other celecoxib side effects are rather serious and demand immediate medical attention. These include fluid retention, symptoms of a stroke or heart attack, and stomach ulcers.

One of the most common celecoxib side effects is high blood pressure, which is often not detected until a doctor appointment, though some patients do become dizzy or have blurred vision as a result of the increase. Diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, along with occasional heartburn, are also side effects that are often experienced by patients. Some people also notice that they have gas or a fever after taking this type of analgesic. Many of these side effects are manageable, but they should be reported at the next doctor appointment because some symptoms, such as high blood pressure and diarrhea, can turn into serious issues if they are not treated fairly quickly.

Mild celecoxib side effects extend to the respiratory tract, because one of the most common results of this medication is a cold. This means many patients experience a sore throat, a cough and a runny nose while taking celecoxib. Sinusitis, bronchitis and laryngitis can also occur during treatment with this drug. Like other common celecoxib side effects, respiratory issues should be reported to a doctor before they become serious. Most doctors will prescribe a different analgesic if the patient is bothered by mild side effects.

There are some celecoxib side effects that can be life-threatening and call for emergency treatment, in which case the doctor needs to treat the resulting issue and then prescribe a different drug. For instance, some patients notice symptoms of a heart attack, including shortness of breath and pain in the chest. Stroke symptoms, such as blurred vision and a numb feeling on one or both sides of the body, may also occur during treatment with celecoxib. Perforation of the stomach lining, stomach ulcers and bleeding in the abdomen also can show up during a course of treatment with this analgesic. Fluid retention also may occur, signaled by sudden weight gain and swollen arms, legs and abdomen.