Let's take a minute to talk about your medication.

This is celecoxib. It is a type of pain reliever known as an 'NSAID'. 

Celecoxib is used to relieve pain and swelling caused by many types of arthritis or menstrual cramps. It may have other uses, too. 

You should take this medicine exactly as your doctor tells you to. Some patients prefer to take it with food to reduce the risk of minor stomach irritation. 

Most patients tolerate this medicine well. As with any medicine, serious side effects could occur. NSAIDs increase the risk of having a heart attack or stroke. You could have a high risk of these if you take it for a long time, use higher doses, or take it after a recent heart attack. 

NSAIDs can also cause serious and sudden bleeding in the digestive tract, often in the stomach. This is more likely if you are older than 65, or if you have a history of ulcers or bleeding in the digestive tract. You also have a higher risk if you smoke, drink alcohol, have bleeding problems, or take other medicines -- like prednisone, blood thinners, or medicines that treat depression.

There are things you can do to help keep this medicine safe for you. First, read the 'Medication Guide' for full information. Also, always check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking any other medicines, including aspirin. 

Women must check with their doctors before becoming pregnant or breastfeeding. You should not take NSAIDs after 29 weeks of pregnancy.

For best results with NSAIDS, work with your doctor to use the lowest dose for the shortest time needed.  Also, stay hydrated, and ask about checking your own blood pressure.