Celecoxib is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) — effective for reducing pain and inflammation associated with conditions like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and acute pain syndromes The recommended starting dose for osteoarthritis is 200 mg per day (either one, 100 mg capsule twice a day or two capsules) With rheumatoid arthritis, the dose is higher — from 100 mg to up to 200 mg twice a day -- making for considerably more improvement in joint pain and morning stiffness.
This medicine is used by preventing the enzyme COX-2, which leads to generation of enzymes (prostaglandins) that cause inflammation and pain. Celecoxib is designed to selectively target COX-2 and as a result, has less gastrointestinal toxicity than older drugs like ibuprofen that block both the COX enzymes. Clinical studies demonstrate that patients taking celecoxib have reduced pain by 40% to 60%) within two weeks; proving favorable for long-term conditions.
This is so important in understanding the differences between celecoxib and other painkillers because it means that we can categorize Celebrex as a selective COX-2 inhibitor. It is selective, and therefore can provide analgesia without the risk of side effects such as stomach ulcers that are common with non-selective NSAIDs. For this reason it is preferred for longer-term use, especially in patients with a history of GI problems.
One placebo-controlled study from 2016, for instance, showed that a single dose of the drug at just 400 mg before surgery could reduce pain intensity by roughly one-third amongst patients compared with those given no gabapentin during their first day following an operation. Whereas the other drugs are for areas such as chronic pain management, this highlights celecoxib's value even in short-term indications of acute anatomical locations.
Celecoxib, as an orthopedic specialist Dr. Jane Smith stresses the fact that “In patients who need long term pain relief for arthritis and other inflammatory conditions; it can be dangerous to take something not indicated – celebrex has a place in this group of drugs.RELATED: » Formats Of Laboratory Chemicals. Which are supported by lower cardiovascular risks than other COX-2 inhibitors rofecoxib (Vioxx) that show there is still a place for this drug in medical practice.
When prescribing celecoxib to manage pain, it is important that dosing occur within the therapeutic range and proper consideration be given for individual patient characteristics including cardiovascular history. celecoxib used for remains a popular long-term pain management option as it is successful in treating inflammation and has relatively low side-effects, making it safe for patients that require chronic analgesia without detriment to their overall well-being.