On celebrex one month on and one off. which nsaid is safest to take for my osteoarthritis on the off-celebrex month? or take tramadol instead?

Try OTC: ibuprofen ( Advil) or naproxen sodium ( Aleve ). Another option would be arthritis strength Tylenol; however, if you decide on an OTC medication, please consult your physician. Tramadol should be considered if pain is moderate- severe only. The majority of OA pain can be managed with generic NSAIDS.

Celebrex: Celebrex is a Cox2 inhibitor versus a nonselect cox inhibitor of more traditional NSAIDS. The Cox 2 inhibitors have been associated with higher risk of cardiac and stroke issues. This might be why your one month on and off regime. Tramadol is a synthetic opiod. If not taking Celebrex there should not be a problem taking a different NSAID. However, check with your provider.