.
Celecoxib is used to treat rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis; it is in a class of medications known as selective COX-2 inhibitor non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Interactions with Dietary Supplements
Sodium and
Potassium
Controlled studies indicate that individuals on low-salt diets who take celecoxib retain
sodium and potassium, which might result in higher than normal blood levels of these
minerals.1 More research is needed to determine whether potassium supplements might
produce unwanted side effects in people taking celecoxib. Until more information is available,
people taking celecoxib should have their sodium and potassium blood levels monitored by their
healthcare practitioner.
Lithium
Lithium is a mineral that may be present in some supplements and is also used in large amounts
to treat mood disorders such as manic-depression. Taking celecoxib together with the mineral
can result in significant increases in lithium blood levels,2 which might cause
unwanted side effects. Consequently, people taking celecoxib and lithium-containing
supplements should consult their healthcare practitioner about having their lithium blood
levels checked regularly.
Interactions with Herbs
Willow (Salix
alba)
Willow bark contains salicin, which is related to aspirin.
Both salicin and aspirin produce anti-inflammatory effects after they have been converted to
salicylic acid in the body. Taking aspirin and celecoxib together increases the likelihood of
developing stomach and intestinal ulcers.3 Though no studies have investigated a
similar interaction between willow bark and celecoxib, people taking the drug should avoid the
herb until more information is available.
Summary of Interactions for Celecoxib
| Depletion or interference | Lithium Potassium Sodium |
|---|---|
| Adverse interaction | Willow* |
| Side effect reduction/prevention | None known |
| Supportive interaction | None known |
| Reduced drug absorption/bioavailability | None known |
For the convenience of the reader, the information in the summary is categorized as follows: “Depletion or interference” indicates the drug may deplete or interfere with the absorption or function of the supplement or herb. “Adverse interaction” indicates that the supplement or herb used together with the drug may result in undesirable effects. “Side effect reduction/prevention” indicates the supplement or herb may reduce the likelihood and/or severity of a potential side effect caused by the drug. “Supportive interaction” indicates the supplement or herb may support or aid the function of the drug. “Reduced drug absorption/bioavailability” indicates that the supplement or herb may decrease the absorption and/or activity of the drug in the body. An asterisk (*) next to an item in the summary indicates that the interaction is supported only by weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific evidence.
References:
1. Rossat J, Maillard M, Nussberger J. Renal effects of selective cyclooxygenase-2 inhibition in normotensive salt-depleted subjects. Clin Pharmacol Ther 1999;66:76–84.
2. Sifton DW, ed. Physicians Desk Reference. Montvale, NJ: Medical Economics Company, Inc., 2000, 2901–4.
3. Sifton DW, ed. Physicians Desk Reference. Montvale, NJ: Medical Economics Company, Inc., 2000, 2901–4.
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The information presented in VitaminLore is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over-the-counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications.