Celecoxib 60 kaps

Celecoxib is the generic form of Celebrex, a selective COX-2 inhibitor providing anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects with a lower risk of gastrointestinal complications than traditional NSAIDs. Generic celecoxib is bioequivalent to the branded product and available at a lower cost.

Mechanism of selective COX-2 inhibition

Celecoxib selectively blocks the cyclooxygenase-2 enzyme, which is upregulated at sites of inflammation and responsible for producing pain-generating and inflammatory prostaglandins. By sparing COX-1, which maintains the protective mucous lining of the stomach, celecoxib reduces gastrointestinal ulceration risk by approximately 50 to 70% compared with non-selective NSAIDs.

Clinical applications

Celecoxib is used for osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and acute pain. It is particularly valued for patients who need long-term anti-inflammatory therapy but have gastrointestinal risk factors such as a history of peptic ulceration or concurrent anticoagulant use.

How to Take Celecoxib

Celecoxib capsules can be taken with or without food. They are usually taken once or twice daily at the same times each day. Swallow capsules whole with water. For chronic inflammatory conditions, consistent daily dosing provides sustained anti-inflammatory activity throughout the day.

The dose depends on your condition and your doctor's assessment. Common doses range from 100 to 200 mg once or twice daily. Always use the lowest dose that adequately controls your symptoms, and have your doctor review whether you still need it at regular intervals.

Duration of Treatment

Celecoxib is intended for short-term or long-term use depending on the condition, but regular review is important. NSAIDs carry cardiovascular and gastrointestinal risks that increase with dose and duration. Your prescriber will weigh the benefits against these risks for your individual situation.

Osteoarthritis: 200 mg daily (single or divided dose). Rheumatoid arthritis: 100 to 200 mg twice daily. Maximum: 400 mg daily for chronic use.

Common Side Effects

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

Gastrointestinal and Cardiovascular Considerations

The risk of serious gastrointestinal events (ulceration, bleeding, perforation) is significantly lower with celecoxib than with ibuprofen, diclofenac, or naproxen. However, the risk is not zero, especially in older patients or those taking aspirin, steroids, or anticoagulants alongside it.

Like all COX-2 inhibitors, celecoxib carries a small increased risk of heart attack and stroke. This risk rises with dose and duration, and is most relevant in people with existing cardiovascular risk factors. Discuss any concerns about heart health with your doctor before starting treatment.

Monitor blood pressure during treatment, as celecoxib can cause sodium retention. All NSAIDs, including selective COX-2 inhibitors, carry a small increased cardiovascular risk, which is dose-dependent and increases with duration of use.

Renal effects

Prostaglandins play a role in maintaining renal blood flow. Celecoxib, like all NSAIDs, can impair renal function, particularly in patients with pre-existing renal impairment, heart failure, or dehydration.

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