Close to 20 million Americans suffer from some form of arthritis and celebrex is helping to relieve the ailment's man in many of them. Approved by the Food and Drug Administration as a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, it is a member of the COX-2 inhibitor family that help reduce the pain and inflammation associated with osteo arthritis as well as rheumatoid arthritis. Previous non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs inhibited the enzyme cyclooxygenase-1, or COX-1, which was blamed for causing gastrointestinal problems and contributing to the formation of stomach ulcers.

Other advantages to using a COX-2 inhibitor, is that it does not interfere with the clumping of blood platelets, a vital process in blood clotting. In fighting the pain of arthritis and celebrex has not shown to cause similar stomach problems as some others have done. Prior to the drug being placed in the market, clinical trials demonstrated the safety of the drug, but research and additional studies continue and results tracked to insure the safety of the product.

Previous drugs designed to relieve the pain of arthritis were pulled from the market after it was determined that they contributed to an increase in heart attack and stroke. New drugs can be a blessing for those suffering the pain of arthritis and celebrex is showing it can provide relief.

Studies Show Less Exposure To Developing Ulcers

When studying those with arthritis and celebrex was compared to other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, there were few signs of stomach ulcer development among the celebrex users, compared to those using other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. However, doctors prescribing medication for arthritis and celebrex among them, carry the warning that they could be responsible for stomach lacerations. However, in most cases the lacerations will heal on their own without intrusive efforts.

As with many non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, if patients notice any signs of gastrointestinal bleeding or ulcerations, any type of skin rash or swelling as well as weight gain, they should notify their doctor immediately. While studies of people with arthritis and celebrex prescriptions have shown very few side effects, recent announcements by the FDA indicate that if the dosage is too high, it could cause coronary problems.

While many over the counter drugs as well as prescriptions are written to relieve suffering from arthritis and celebrex is one of the most common, there are some patients who prefer a more natural approach to the management of arthritis pain. There are a few options available, such as Glucosamine and chrondroitin that show no serious side effects.