What is celecoxib used for?

Celecoxib is a COX-2–selective NSAID (brand name Celebrex) used to relieve pain and reduce inflammation. Common indications include:

- Osteoarthritis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Psoriatic arthritis
- Ankylosing spondylitis
- Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (in appropriate age ranges)
- Acute pain (e.g., after surgery or dental procedures)
- Primary dysmenorrhea (menstrual cramps)

In adults, it has also been approved (in specific cases) to reduce the number of colorectal polyps in familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP).

Safety notes:
- It carries risks of heart attack/stroke and GI ulcers/bleeding, similar to other NSAIDs, though GI risk may be somewhat lower than nonselective NSAIDs.
- Not suitable for everyone (kidney disease, certain cardiovascular conditions, pregnancy, aspirin-sensitive individuals, or people with a sulfonamide allergy; though cross-reactivity is not common, discuss allergies with your doctor).
- Dosing and duration should be as prescribed; use with food if GI upset occurs, and avoid combining with other NSAIDs unless advised by a clinician.

If you have a specific condition or are considering celecoxib, tell me which indication or context you’re asking about and I can give more detailed info.