Celecoxib

A selective COX-2 inhibitor designed to reduce pain and inflammation with less stomach damage.

What is Celecoxib?

Celecoxib is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) belonging to the selective COX-2 inhibitor class. It is widely prescribed for chronic inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, where long-term pain control is required.

Unlike traditional NSAIDs, celecoxib was developed to minimize damage to the stomach lining while maintaining strong anti-inflammatory action.

History & Development

Celecoxib was introduced in the late 1990s and became one of the first widely used COX-2 selective inhibitors. It was designed after researchers discovered that COX-2 is mainly responsible for inflammation, while COX-1 protects the stomach.

Chemical Structure & Properties

• IUPAC name: 4-[5-(4-methylphenyl)-3-(trifluoromethyl)-1H-pyrazol-1-yl]benzenesulfonamide
• Molecular formula: C₁₇H₁₄F₃N₃O₂S
• Molar mass: 381.37 g/mol
• Functional groups: Sulfonamide, aromatic rings, pyrazole ring

The sulfonamide group plays a major role in selective COX-2 inhibition.

Mechanism of Action

Celecoxib selectively inhibits the cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) enzyme, reducing prostaglandin synthesis responsible for pain and inflammation.

• Strong anti-inflammatory effect
• Reduced pain and stiffness
• Minimal gastric irritation compared to non-selective NSAIDs

Pharmacokinetics

• Absorption: Well absorbed orally
• Peak plasma time: ~3 hours
• Protein binding: ~97%
• Metabolism: Liver (CYP2C9)
• Half-life: ~11 hours
• Excretion: Urine and feces

Medical Uses

• Osteoarthritis
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Ankylosing spondylitis
• Chronic musculoskeletal pain
• Acute pain (short-term)

Dosage Guidelines

Osteoarthritis: 200 mg once daily

Rheumatoid arthritis: 100–200 mg twice daily

Maximum dose: 400 mg/day

⚠️ Use lowest effective dose for shortest duration.

Side Effects

• Headache
• Indigestion
• Nausea
• Edema

Serious Risks & Warnings

• Increased risk of heart attack and stroke
• Kidney impairment
• Allergic reactions (especially sulfa allergy)

Drug Interactions

• Blood thinners
• Antihypertensive drugs
• Other NSAIDs
• Fluconazole (CYP2C9 inhibition)

Celecoxib vs Etoricoxib

Celecoxib has slightly lower cardiovascular risk, while etoricoxib provides stronger pain relief in some patients.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is celecoxib safe for the stomach? – Safer than traditional NSAIDs.

Can it be used long-term? – Only under medical supervision.

Is it an antibiotic? – No.

Is celecoxib a steroid? – No.

⚠️ Educational content only. Not a substitute for professional medical advice.