Also, it doesn't prevent platelet clumping the way aspirin does, so it may be useful for people who need to avoid clot-busting drugs. You can either take a full day's worth at once or in two separate doses, depending on what your doctor prescribes. Although you can take it anytime, mealtimes may best because Celebrex dissolves more thoroughly in fat than in water. If you eat a very fatty meal before taking it, the drug's absorption is slower but more of the dose gets into your bloodstream. If you take antacids containing aluminum or magnesium with your meals, they will limit your absorption of the drug and you may not feel the full effect.
Arthritis is marked by damage to cartilage, the tough, slippery material that cushions joints.
As the condition worsens, other types of tissues in and around joints also wear down, sometimes leading to a painful grinding of bone against bone. This enzyme controls the production of prostaglandins, chemicals with a range of effects in the body. Recently scientists discovered there are two kinds of COX, and each does something a little different. COX-2 produces the prostaglandins that cause the inflammation associated with arthritis. Since COX-2 is involved in fighting ulcers, Celebrex could cause ulcers or prevent them from healing.