Celebrex 60 Kaps

Celebrex contains celecoxib, the most widely prescribed selective COX-2 inhibitor. It provides anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects comparable to traditional NSAIDs while significantly reducing the risk of gastrointestinal ulcers and bleeding.

The COX-2 story

Celecoxib was developed to separate the anti-inflammatory benefits of NSAIDs from their gastrointestinal toxicity. Traditional NSAIDs inhibit both COX-1 (which protects the stomach lining) and COX-2 (which drives inflammation). Celecoxib selectively targets COX-2, preserving gastric protection while suppressing inflammation.

Cardiovascular safety

Following the withdrawal of rofecoxib (Vioxx), the cardiovascular safety of all COX-2 inhibitors came under scrutiny. The PRECISION trial, the largest randomised cardiovascular safety trial of any analgesic, demonstrated that celecoxib at moderate doses (200 mg daily) was non-inferior to both ibuprofen and naproxen for cardiovascular safety, while causing fewer GI events. This has largely reassured clinicians about celecoxib's cardiovascular profile at standard doses.

How to Take Celebrex

Celebrex (celecoxib) capsules can be taken with or without food. They are usually taken once or twice daily, depending on what is being treated. Swallow the capsule whole with a glass of water.

The dose varies by condition. For osteoarthritis, 100 to 200 mg once daily is standard. For rheumatoid arthritis, 100 to 200 mg twice daily is typical. For acute pain, 400 mg as a single dose may be used, followed by 200 mg on the same day if needed, then 200 mg twice daily thereafter. Always use the lowest effective dose for the shortest time necessary.

Using Alongside Stomach Protection

Although Celebrex has a lower risk of stomach ulcers than traditional NSAIDs, patients with a history of peptic ulceration or those taking anticoagulants may still benefit from a proton pump inhibitor (such as omeprazole) taken alongside it. Discuss this with your doctor if you have a history of stomach problems.

Osteoarthritis: 200 mg daily (as a single dose or 100 mg twice daily). Rheumatoid arthritis: 200 to 400 mg daily in two divided doses. Acute pain: 400 mg initially, then 200 mg twice daily. Maximum: 400 mg daily for chronic use.

Common Side Effects

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Swelling of the ankles or feet (peripheral oedema)
• Upper respiratory tract infections
• Indigestion or stomach discomfort
• Diarrhoea

Cardiovascular and Gastrointestinal Risk

Celebrex, like all COX-2 inhibitors, carries a small increased risk of heart attack and stroke, particularly at higher doses or with prolonged use. Do not take Celebrex if you have established heart disease, a history of stroke, or poorly controlled high blood pressure without first discussing it carefully with your doctor. The gastrointestinal risk is lower than with traditional NSAIDs, but ulceration and bleeding can still occur, especially in older patients or those also taking aspirin or steroids.

Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration necessary. Monitor blood pressure, as celecoxib can cause sodium retention and raise blood pressure. Not suitable in patients with established cardiovascular disease unless no alternative exists.

Sulphonamide sensitivity

Celecoxib contains a sulphonamide moiety. While cross-reactivity with sulphonamide antibiotics is rare, caution is advised in patients with a history of severe sulphonamide allergy.

Contraindicated in active peptic ulceration, severe hepatic impairment, severe renal impairment, inflammatory bowel disease, severe heart failure, established ischaemic heart disease or cerebrovascular disease, peripheral arterial disease, pregnancy, and known hypersensitivity to celecoxib or sulphonamides.