Final answer:
Celecoxib is a COX-2 selective inhibitor used to treat various forms of arthritis, manage acute pain, and dysmenorrhea while carrying a risk of stomach problems and cardiovascular events. Its selective inhibition of COX-2 reduces inflammation without greatly affecting the stomach-protecting COX-1 enzyme. Patient-specific risk evaluations are crucial due to its potential toxicities, including gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, and renal issues.
Step-by-step explanation:
The mechanism of action of Celecoxib involves selectively inhibiting the cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) enzyme. This enzyme is primarily responsible for the synthesis of inflammatory prostaglandins. By blocking COX-2, Celecoxib reduces inflammation, pain, and fever without inhibiting COX-1, which offers protection for the stomach lining.
Clinical uses of Celecoxib include the treatment of various forms of arthritis, such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis, as well as for the management of acute pain and dysmenorrhea. However, like all nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), it carries the risk of stomach problems and, as research has indicated, potential cardiovascular events.
Potential toxicities of Celecoxib include gastrointestinal issues like ulcers and bleeding, cardiovascular risks such as heart attack and stroke, and renal complications. It is essential for healthcare providers to evaluate individual patient risk before prescribing Celecoxib.