Brief Answer: Clay colored stools were due to Celebrex. Detailed Answer: Hi Ma'am, Thanks for your query. Firstly, you were prescribed pain-killers (Aleve and Celebrex) for osteoarthritis. A side effect of Celebrex is blockage of biliary canals (in the liver) (condition is called Cholestasis) which transport bile into the intestine. Bile imparts the normal color to stools, while absence of bile in the intestine cause clay colored stools. Get your Liver Function Test and an ultrasound of the liver and biliary system done to confirm/rule out cholestasis. Withdrawal of Celebrex alone will gradually revert stools' color to normal. Since the stools' color is already returning towards normal, there is no cause of worry. Further, osteoarthritis is due to degeneration of the cartilage and bones- which may be age-related, post-menopausal, deficiency of calcium and/or Vitamin D. Hence, efforts should be directed towards correction of the cause. Get Blood Vitamin D and Calcium levels done. In my vast clinical experience of more than 35 years, I have seen good response to additional supplements of Calcium + Vitamin D3 (Calcitriol); regular use of Glucosamine + Chondroitin sulfate or, Diacerein; and, use of a drug belonging to a Class of Medicines, called Bisphosphonates will also reduce weakening/thinning of the bones. A Bone Densitometry scan will reveal the extent of osteoporosis. Consult your doctor and apprise him of my opinion. I am certain that he will agree with me; order required tests, and- based on the reports- will arrive at a certain diagnosis and prescribe suitable treatment as advised. Hope I have addressed to your concerns to your complete satisfaction and you find my response helpful and informative. I will be happy to answer further queries, if any. Fond regards and have a nice day, Col (Dr.) Rakesh Karanwal

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