Indicated for: pain and inflammation
Substance: celecoxib (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug)
ATC: M01AH01 (Musculo-skeletal system | Antiinflammatory and antirheumatic products, non-steroids | Coxibs)
Celecoxib is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) from the class of selective cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitors. It is used to treat pain and inflammation associated with conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and acute pain.
Celecoxib reduces inflammation and pain by inhibiting the COX-2 enzyme, which is responsible for producing prostaglandins involved in inflammation. It is preferred over other NSAIDs due to its lower risk of gastrointestinal side effects, such as ulcers.
Side effects may include headache, nausea, diarrhea, high blood pressure, or dizziness. In rare cases, it may increase the risk of cardiovascular events (heart attack, stroke). It is contraindicated in patients with NSAID allergies, severe heart failure, or severe liver or kidney disease.