What is ceecoxib?
Celecoxib is a selective cyclooxygenase 2 inhibitor (COX-2-Hemmer, Coxib). It acts specifically on the enzyme COX-2, which is active especially in inflammation, thereby protecting the COX-1, which has a protective function for the stomach mucosa.
The original product is Celebrex®. Celecoxib generic drugs are also available. The active ingredient is mainly used in patients who do not tolerate classic NSAR such as ibuprofen or diclofenac because of stomach problems.
Celecoxib is approved for the treatment of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and Morbus Bechterew.
Active Ingredients & Mechanism of Action
Active ingredient: Celecoxib
Celecoxib selectively inhibits cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2):
**COX-1 vs COX-2: * *
- COX-1: Protects the stomach mucosa, regulates kidney function and thrombocytes
- COX-2: Increased in inflammation, promotes pain and swelling
Proportion of selectivity:
- Celecoxib mainly inhibits COX 2
- As a result, less stomach ulcers and GI bleeding
- The protective function of the COX-1 for the stomach is largely preserved
Wirkprofil:
- Pain relief and anti-inflammatory
- Effect entry: 30–60 minutes
- duration of action: 12 hours
Who is it suitable for?
Celecoxib is suitable for:
- Arthrosis (symptomatic treatment)
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Morbus Bechterew (Spondylitis ankylosans)
Especially suitable for:
- Patients with increased gastrointestinal risk
- Patients who do not wear classic NSAR
- Older patients with GI history
Not suitable:
- With known cardiovascular disease
- After heart attack or stroke
- In severe liver or kidney failure
- For sulfonamide allergy
Available Dosages
Capsules:
- 100 mg, 200 mg
Arthrosis:
- 200 mg daily (1x 200 mg or 2x 100 mg)
Rheumatoid arthritis:
- 200–400 mg daily (divided to 2 doses)
Morbus Bechterew:
- 200 mg daily, if necessary up to 400 mg
Maximum daily dose: 400 mg
How to Take
Intake:
- Take capsules with water
- Regardless of meals (can be taken with food)
- 2 times daily gift: morning and evening
Important notes:
- The lowest effective dose for the shortest duration
- Regular medical check for long-term use
- Monitor blood pressure
Contraindications
**Celecoxib must not be taken at:* *
- hypersensitivity to Celecoxib or sulfonamides
- Active gastrointestinal ulcers
- Ichaemic heart disease, heart failure (NYHA II–IV)
- condition after heart attack or stroke
- Peripheral arterial disease
- Heavy liver failure
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Preview at:
- Cardiovascular risk factors
- Renal function restriction
- High blood pressure
- Older patients
Possible Side Effects
Family (1–10 %):
- High blood pressure
- headache, dizziness
- Insomnia
- Edema
- respiratory infections
** Occasionally (0.1-1 %):* *
- Heart failure
- Gastrointestinal complaints (similar to classic NSAR)
- Skin rash
Selten, but seriously:
- Cardiovascular events (heart attack, stroke)
- Heavy skin reactions
- liver damage
GI advantage: The risk for gastric ulcers and GI bleeding is significantly lower than for non-selective NSAR.
Interactions
Increased bleeding risk with:
- Anticoagulants (Warfarin – INR control)
Sustainability of:
- ACE inhibitors, sartans
- Diuretics
Celecoxib is metabolized via CYP2C9:
- Fluconazole increases Celecoxib levels (half dose)
- In the case of known CYP2C9 slow metabolizers: lowest dose
Preview with:
- Lithium (increased mirrors)
- Methotrexate
Frequently Asked Questions
Similar Medications
Is ceecoxib right for you?
A licensed doctor will review your information and issue a prescription if suitable. Discreet and secure.
Important Notice
This information does not replace medical advice. If you have questions about your health or the suitability of this medication, please consult a doctor. Read the package leaflet before use.