Comparing celecoxib with traditional nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs

Celecoxib is as effective as other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for treating the symptoms of osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. However, patients taking celecoxib are less likely to discontinue the medication because of gastrointestinal upset than patients taking traditional NSAIDs. Nevertheless, celecoxib does not decrease the incidence of serious gastrointestinal adverse events with long-term therapy.