Zycel 200 mg (Celecoxib)

What is Zycel 200 mg?

Zycel 200 mg is a prescription nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that contains Celecoxib as its active ingredient. Celecoxib is a COX-2 selective inhibitor, commonly used to relieve pain and inflammation associated with arthritis, acute pain, and menstrual cramps.

What are the Uses of Zycel 200 mg?

Zycel 200 mg is prescribe for:

• Osteoarthritis (OA)

• Rheumatoid arthritis (RA)

• Ankylosing spondylitis (AS)

• Acute pain

• Primary dysmenorrhea (menstrual cramps)

• Postoperative or musculoskeletal pain

What are the Benefits of Zycel 200 mg?

• Provides effective pain relief with once or twice daily dosing

• Selective COX-2 inhibition offers a lower risk of gastric side effects compared to traditional NSAIDs

• Reduces inflammation, stiffness, and swelling in joints

• Suitable for long-term use under medical supervision in chronic arthritis conditions

• Rapid onset of pain relief in acute conditions

How Does Zycel 200 mg Work?

Zycel (Celecoxib) selectively blocks the cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) enzyme. COX-2 is responsible for producing prostaglandins that cause pain and inflammation. By selectively inhibiting COX-2 and sparing COX-1 (which protects the stomach lining), Celecoxib offers anti-inflammatory effects with reduced gastrointestinal side effects.

How to Take Zycel 200 mg?

• Take exactly as prescribe by your doctor

• Can be taken with or without food

• Swallow the capsule whole with water

• If you experience stomach upset, take it with food or milk

Dosage of Zycel 200 mg

• Osteoarthritis: 200 mg once daily or 100 mg twice daily

• Rheumatoid arthritis: 100–200 mg twice daily

• Acute pain or dysmenorrhea: 400 mg initially, followed by 200 mg if needed on the first day; then 200 mg twice daily as required

• Ankylosing spondylitis: 200 mg once daily or 100 mg twice daily

Dosing varies depending on the condition and response. Always follow your doctor’s advice.

Missed Dose and Overdose

• Missed dose: Take as soon as possible. If it’s near the next dose, skip the missed one—do not double up.

• Overdose symptoms: Nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, drowsiness, and possible kidney or heart complications. Seek immediate medical attention if overdose is suspected.

Available Strengths of Zycel (Celecoxib)

• 100 mg

• 200 mg 

Side Effects of Zycel 200 mg

Common:

• Stomach pain, nausea

• Headache

• Diarrhea or indigestion

• Dizziness

• Swelling in hands or feet

Serious:

• Increased risk of heart attack or stroke (especially with long-term use or in high doses)

• Gastrointestinal bleeding or ulcers (though lower than with traditional NSAIDs)

• Liver or kidney dysfunction

• Severe skin reactions (rare)

Stop use and seek medical help if you experience chest pain, shortness of breath, or black/tarry stools.

Drug Interactions of Zycel 200 mg

Avoid combining with:

• Other NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen)

• Warfarin or anticoagulants – increased bleeding risk

• Diuretics, ACE inhibitors, ARBs – may reduce kidney function

• Fluconazole – increases celecoxib levels

• Lithium – increased lithium toxicity risk

Precautions of Zycel 200 mg

• Avoid in patients with a history of heart disease, stroke, or uncontrolled hypertension

• Use with caution in renal or hepatic impairment

• Not recommend in late pregnancy (3rd trimester)

• Should not be used immediately after coronary bypass surgery (CABG)

• Not suitable for patients with sulfa allergy (contains sulfonamide group)

Storage Information

• Store below 25°C (77°F)

• Keep in a dry place away from moisture and sunlight

• Keep out of reach of children

Availability in the US and Australia

• United States: Celecoxib is available under the brand name Celebrex (Rx only)

• Australia: Available as Celebrex and other generics; prescription required; listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) for arthritis and chronic pain conditions

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is Zycel 200 mg safe for long-term use?

It may be used long-term under medical supervision, especially for arthritis, but risks like heart and kidney problems should be monitor.

2. Can I take Zycel with paracetamol?

Yes, they can be safely combined for enhanced pain relief.

3. Is Zycel 200 mg addictive?

No, Celecoxib is not habit-forming or addictive.

4. Can I drive or operate machinery while taking Zycel?

Generally yes, but if you feel dizzy or drowsy, avoid such activities.

5. Can I drink alcohol while taking Zycel?

Limit alcohol as it increases the risk of stomach bleeding.