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Celecoxib

NSAID1999
Drug ClassNSAID
Year Approved1999
Conditions TreatedArthritis, acute pain
AvailabilityPrescription

About Celecoxib

A selective COX 2 inhibitor that reduces pain and inflammation with less stomach irritation than traditional NSAIDs. Celecoxib or Celebrex treats osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and acute pain. COX 2 inhibitors were developed to avoid GI side effects. Vioxx, a similar drug, was withdrawn in 2004 for heart attack risk. Celecoxib remained on the market but carries an FDA boxed warning for cardiovascular risk. Despite controversy, it remains valuable for patients who cannot tolerate traditional NSAIDs.

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