Celecoxib for the treatment of atherosclerosis

ABSTRACT

Introduction: It is widely accepted that inflammation plays a pivotal role in the progression of atherosclerosis. Anti-inflammatory drugs and especially selective cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitors have attracted a keen interest.

Areas Covered: In the present drug evaluation article, the authors elucidate the role of celecoxib, a selective COX-2 inhibitor, in the treatment of atherosclerosis. They discuss the atherogenic properties of the COX-2 enzyme. In addition, they address the studies that support an atheroprotective role of celecoxib. Moreover, they provide a review of the literature on the role of COX-2 inhibitors in increasing the rate of major adverse cardiovascular events. Finally, they discuss the emerging evidence that supports celecoxib as an adjuvant or neo-adjuvant therapy to percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

Expert opinion: Several studies have demonstrated a beneficial effect of celecoxib on the progression of atherosclerosis. Nevertheless, this evidence is mainly derived from preliminary data, while a substantial number of clinical studies have raised concerns regarding the cardiovascular safety of COX-2 inhibitors. Interestingly, recent clinical studies have supported the advantages of short-term celecoxib administration in patients undergoing PCI. However, many more large scale clinical trials are required to assess the long-term safety and efficacy of celecoxib administration in patients with cardiovascular disease.

KEYWORDS:

• Celecoxib
• inflammation
• atherosclerosis
• cox-2 inhibitors

Declaration of interest

The authors have no relevant affiliations or financial involvement with any organization or entity with a financial interest in or financial conflict with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript. This includes employment, consultancies, honoraria, stock ownership or options, expert testimony, grants or patents received or pending, or royalties.