Celebrex & Ulcers!

I have OA pretty bad in my knees and hands and have been taking Celebrex. Last week I went for a pre-op Endoscopy which showed I have 2-ulcers. That explains the stomach pain. Fortunately, my Lapband surgery is going ahead as planned on 7/19. The gastro doc said the ulcers are likely from the Celebrex and that I can't take it any more. I have been off it for less that a week and I am hurting real bad. What else works that won't destroy my stomach? Any suggestions??

Hi Ron Have you tried any of the topical stuff? the Rub-on creams? Or even ice and/or heat? Not long to go now until your surgery so hopefully you will or already have found some relief. Best wishes on your upcoming surgery. Elizabeth

Ron, I take Ultram...a souped up tylenol, which seems to do the trick...I also have taken Tylenol for Arthritis, too. but the Ultram (Generic Tramdol) works well for me. My rheumatologist believes in drug vacations, so that's why I switch to over-the-counter-tylenol arthritis. Unfortunately, all the NSAIDS, like Ibuprofen, Motrin, etc...Celebrex-Cox 2 Inhibitores cause ulcers.... I do have to say that as the weight came off my joints have felt better, that is my knees, ankles, hips, and feet...But my hands still hurt... We do have quite a price to pay.... Good luck, Kelly

I suffer from knee pain as well, so here's a few suggestions. The BEST ointment I've found is "BIO-FREEZE"! NOTHING compares to BIO-FREEZE! I also take naproxen or celebrex.......BUT ALWAYS....ALWAYS I take a Previcid WITH it! Previcid will coat the stomach. Previcid, Nexium and even over-the-counter Prilosec are good for acid reflux and ulcers. My ulcer healed taking Prilosec. This is ONLY my experience! I hope this helps you and you heal soon! Good Luck! Jl

I need a total knee replacement and I know how bad the pain can get.  I've been off celebrex since my wls in November. I take vicodin for pain and use pain patches. Ask your doctor to prescribe pain patches for you. You put them on where your pain is and they work. I miss my celebrex but the dr said I can't take it anymore because it will cause ulcers.