Celecoxib Capsules

Category: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), selective COX-2 inhibitor
Form: Oral capsules

Uses:

• Relief of pain and inflammation in conditions such as:

  • Osteoarthritis

  • Rheumatoid arthritis

  • Ankylosing spondylitis

  • Acute pain (e.g., post-surgery or injury)

  • Primary dysmenorrhea (menstrual pain)

• Sometimes used to reduce the number of polyps in familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP).

Mechanism of Action:

• Celecoxib selectively inhibits cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) enzyme, which is primarily responsible for producing prostaglandins that cause pain, inflammation, and fever.

• By sparing COX-1, it tends to have less gastrointestinal irritation compared to traditional NSAIDs.

Administration:

• Taken orally, usually once or twice daily, depending on the condition and severity.

• Can be taken with or without food, though taking with food may reduce stomach upset.

• Dosage should be the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration needed to control symptoms.

Side Effects:

• Common: stomach discomfort, diarrhea, indigestion, nausea, headache.

• Cardiovascular: increased risk of heart attack or stroke with long-term use, especially in patients with existing heart conditions.

• Gastrointestinal: less risk than non-selective NSAIDs, but possible ulcers, bleeding, or perforation.

• Other: dizziness, swelling in legs or feet (edema), high blood pressure.

Precautions:

• Not recommended in patients with allergy to celecoxib, sulfonamides, aspirin, or other NSAIDs.

• Use with caution in patients with heart disease, high blood pressure, kidney or liver impairment.

• Avoid during pregnancy (especially third trimester) due to risk to the fetus.

• Regular monitoring is recommended if used long-term, especially for cardiovascular and gastrointestinal risks.

Summary:
Celecoxib Capsules are a selective COX-2 inhibitor NSAID used to relieve pain and inflammation in conditions like arthritis, acute pain, and menstrual cramps. It offers reduced gastrointestinal side effects compared to traditional NSAIDs but may carry cardiovascular risks if used long-term. The drug should be taken at the lowest effective dose for the shortest necessary duration, with monitoring in high-risk patients.