Celecoxib: What It Is, How It Works, and What You Need to Know

When you need relief from joint pain, swelling, or long-term inflammation, celecoxib, a selective COX-2 inhibitor used to treat pain and inflammation, especially in arthritis. Also known as Celebrex, it's one of the few NSAIDs designed to target inflammation without as much stomach irritation as older drugs like ibuprofen or naproxen. Unlike regular NSAIDs that block both COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes, celecoxib mostly hits COX-2—the one tied to pain and swelling—leaving COX-1 alone to protect your stomach lining. That’s why it’s often chosen for people who’ve had ulcers or stomach issues from other pain meds.

But celecoxib isn’t magic. It still carries risks, especially if you have heart disease or high blood pressure. Studies show long-term use can raise the chance of heart attack or stroke, similar to other NSAIDs. It’s not a first-line fix for occasional headaches—it’s meant for chronic conditions like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or ankylosing spondylitis. People with sulfa allergies should also avoid it, since celecoxib contains a sulfa component. And while it doesn’t hurt your stomach as much as aspirin or ibuprofen, it doesn’t eliminate the risk either. Always talk to your doctor before starting or stopping it, especially if you’re on blood thinners or antidepressants.

Many of the posts below dive into how medications like celecoxib interact with other drugs, affect sexual health, or cause hidden side effects. You’ll find comparisons with other pain relievers, warnings about mixing it with antidepressants or blood pressure pills, and real-life tips on managing long-term use. Whether you’re taking it for arthritis, menstrual pain, or post-surgery swelling, knowing how it fits into your overall health picture matters. Below, you’ll see how celecoxib connects to broader themes like drug safety, chronic pain management, and the hidden risks of everyday medications.