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).

An asterisk (*) next to an item in the summary indicates that the interaction
is supported only by weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific
evidence.

Interactions with 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.