From the Research
Celecoxib is not recommended for managing symptoms of airway infections. Celecoxib is a selective COX-2 inhibitor primarily used to treat pain and inflammation associated with conditions like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and acute pain, but it has no established role in treating respiratory infections 1. For airway infections, treatment typically depends on the cause - viral infections generally require supportive care (rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications for symptom relief), while bacterial infections may require appropriate antibiotics.
The use of celecoxib in airway infections is not supported by evidence, and its anti-inflammatory effects would not address the underlying infectious process, potentially masking fever, an important symptom that helps monitor infection progression 2. Additionally, NSAIDs like celecoxib may be associated with increased complications in some respiratory infections.
Some studies have evaluated the efficacy and safety of celecoxib in various conditions, including osteoarthritis and acute pain, but these findings do not apply to airway infections 3, 4. The most relevant consideration in managing airway infections is to target the specific type of infection and symptoms present, rather than relying on anti-inflammatory agents like celecoxib.
Patients with airway infections should consult healthcare providers for appropriate treatment options, which may include antibiotics for bacterial infections or supportive care for viral infections. The potential risks and benefits of using celecoxib in airway infections have not been established, and its use in this context is not recommended based on current evidence 5. The primary goal in managing airway infections should be to address the underlying cause and alleviate symptoms, rather than relying on medications like celecoxib that are not specifically indicated for this purpose.