Q: Does Celebrex need to be taken every day to work?  Can you take it as you would take ibuprofen, meaning as needed when you are experiencing pain?

I have gotten conflicting answers from my doctor and my pharmacist.  One says that it needs to build up in your system via a daily dose to be effective, and the other says take it only when you’re hurting.  I don’t want to take such a powerful drug daily if it is not necessary.

A: Celecoxib (Celebrex) can be used for acute pain, such as after an accident or surgery.  The analgesic effect usually kicks in within an hour.

For people with osteoarthritis pain, the recommended dose is either 100 mg twice a day or 200 mg once a day.

We see no reason why you couldn’t take Celebrex when you experience pain.  This approach might reduce the risk of side effects.

• article by Joe and Teresa Graedon
• copyright The Seattle Times