A New Class of Arthritis Drugs

By now, you may have heard of the new nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) called Celebrex (celecoxib) from Searle Pharmaceuticals. NSAIDs reduce inflammation and pain by blocking prostaglandin production in the body. Most NSAIDs, such as naproxen and ibuprofen, block this production by blocking cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2). Celebrex, however, belongs to a new type of NSAIDs called the COX-2 inhibitors. Researchers believe that this type selectively inhibits COX-2 but does not inhibit COX-1, which helps regulate protective enzymes in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Therefore, people who take Celebrex have fewer cases of GI bleeding and ulcer formation than people who take other types of NSAIDs, but they still receive the anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and anti-pyretic (fever-lowering) properties.
Some caution needs to be followed when taking Celebrex. Although this medication causes fewer cases of GI bleeding than other NSAIDs cause, GI bleeding and ulcer formation does occur in some people who take it. If you are allergic to sulfonamide ("sulfa") drugs or to celecoxib (the active agent in Celebrex), do not take Celebrex. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist about drug interactions or any physical conditions that may prevent you from taking Celebrex.
Vioxx (rofecoxib), a COX-2 inhibitor from Merck, will be available soon.