What conditions are treated with Celebrex (Celecoxib)?

From the Guidelines

Celebrex (celecoxib) is primarily used to treat pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, acute pain, and menstrual cramps. It belongs to a class of medications called COX-2 inhibitors, which are nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) 1. Celebrex works by blocking the enzyme cyclooxygenase-2, which reduces the production of prostaglandins that cause pain and inflammation. The typical dosage ranges from 100-200 mg once or twice daily, depending on the condition being treated. Unlike traditional NSAIDs, Celebrex may cause less stomach irritation and ulcers because it selectively targets COX-2 enzymes while sparing COX-1 enzymes that help protect the stomach lining. However, patients should be aware that Celebrex still carries cardiovascular risks similar to other NSAIDs, particularly at higher doses or with prolonged use 1. People with sulfa allergies, heart conditions, or a history of stomach ulcers should consult their doctor before taking this medication, as should those taking blood thinners or certain other medications that might interact with Celebrex. Some key points to consider when prescribing Celebrex include:

• The ESCEO guidelines suggest that celecoxib may be the preferred oral NSAID for patients with normal gastrointestinal function 1.
• The use of COX-2 inhibitors, including Celebrex, has been associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular events, particularly at higher doses or with prolonged use 1.
• Patients at high risk for GI complications may benefit from the use of COX-2 inhibitors like Celebrex, but the cardiovascular risk must be carefully considered 1. It is essential to weigh the benefits and risks of Celebrex and other NSAIDs carefully, considering the individual patient's medical history and risk factors, to minimize the risk of adverse effects while providing effective pain relief 1.

From the FDA Drug Label

1. Indications and Usage Section 1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE Celecoxib capsules are indicated 1.1 Osteoarthritis For the management of the signs and symptoms of OA [see Clinical Studies (14.1)] 1.2 Rheumatoid Arthritis For the management of the signs and symptoms of RA [see Clinical Studies (14.2)] 1.3 Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis For the management of the signs and symptoms of JRA in patients 2 years and older [see Clinical Studies (14.3)] 1.4 Ankylosing Spondylitis For the management of the signs and symptoms of AS [see Clinical Studies (14.4)] 1.5 Acute Pain For the management of acute pain in adults [see Clinical Studies (14.5)] 1.6 Primary Dysmenorrhea For the management of primary dysmenorrhea [see Clinical Studies (14.5)]

Celebrex is used to treat the following conditions:

• Osteoarthritis: management of signs and symptoms of OA
• Rheumatoid Arthritis: management of signs and symptoms of RA
• Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis: management of signs and symptoms of JRA in patients 2 years and older
• Ankylosing Spondylitis: management of signs and symptoms of AS
• Acute Pain: management of acute pain in adults
• Primary Dysmenorrhea: management of primary dysmenorrhea 2

From the Research

Conditions Treated by Celebrex

Celebrex is used to treat various conditions, including:

• Osteoarthritis (OA) 3, 4, 5, 6
• Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) 3, 4, 5, 6
• Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (in patients aged > or =2 years) 3
• Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) 3, 4
• Acute pain in adults 3, 5
• Primary dysmenorrhoea 3
• Reduction in the number of adenomatous colorectal polyps in familial adenomatous polyposis 3

Key Findings

• Celebrex has been shown to be effective in relieving the signs and symptoms of OA, RA, and AS 4, 5, 6
• It has a lower incidence of upper gastrointestinal ulceration and complications compared to nonselective NSAIDs 4, 5
• Celebrex is a useful option for therapy in patients at high risk for NSAID-induced GI toxicity, or in those responding suboptimally to or intolerant of NSAIDs 3, 4, 6
• The cardiovascular safety of celecoxib has been assessed, and it appears to be relatively safe in rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis patients, independent of dose or duration 7