Celebrex Alternatives

COX-2 inhibitors, which are often taken to relieve arthritis pain, have come under a lot of scrutiny lately. Vioxx, a COX-2 inhibitor, was taken off the shelves in 2004 because lab tests confirmed that people taking Vioxx had a higher likelihood of heart attack or stroke. Although Celebrex, which is also a COX-2 inhibitor, is still available, the Vioxx scandal has made using COX-2 inhibitors frightening for some.

Many people are now seeking an alternative to ease their chronic pain. Some have turned to aspirin and the like, but they cause intestinal distress in some users. Others are turning to more alternative forms of pain relief that are more natural and have fewer risks.

Natural Alternatives

Glucosamine and chondroitin are two popular supplements among people suffering joint pain. While taking glucosamine and chondroitin does not have the immediate strong relief that COX-2 inhibitors have, it does help slow the effects of most kinds of arthritis. It also helps the body repair cartilage, which is something our bodies have more difficulty doing as we age.

Acupuncture is fast becoming a natural alternative to COX-2 inhibitors for arthritis sufferers. Acupuncture is a 2,000-year-old Chinese practice during which an acupuncturist inserts needles into certain parts of the body to relieve pain. Recently, this seemingly mystic practice has become more and more appreciated in western culture and has become an important part of treating arthritic patients.