Celecoxib is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) belonging to the class of drugs known as COX-2 inhibitors or "coxibs." It is primarily used in the treatment of various conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, acute pain, and ankylosing spondylitis (spinal disease), among others.
The mechanism of action of celecoxib involves the selective inhibition of the cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) enzyme. This enzyme is one of two main isoforms of the enzyme cyclooxygenase, the other being COX-1. The COX enzymes are involved in the conversion of arachidonic acid to prostaglandins, which are lipid compounds that play a role in inflammation, pain, and fever.
COX-1 is constitutively expressed in most tissues and is involved in the maintenance of normal physiological functions, such as the protection of the stomach lining and support of kidney function. COX-2, on the other hand, is primarily an inducible enzyme, meaning it's typically not present but is produced in response to inflammatory stimuli.
By selectively inhibiting COX-2, celecoxib reduces the production of prostaglandins involved in inflammation and pain, without inhibiting the COX-1 enzyme. This selectivity is thought to reduce the gastrointestinal side effects associated with non-selective NSAIDs, which inhibit both COX-1 and COX-2.
Regarding the impact on the production of prostaglandins with kava, some research has suggested that kavalactones might exert an anti-inflammatory effect by inhibiting the cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, much like non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). These enzymes are involved in the biosynthesis of prostaglandins, which are compounds that play key roles in inflammation and pain.
However, it's important to highlight that the concentrations of kavalactones used in these in vitro studies are typically much higher than the concentrations that would be achieved in the human body through the traditional use of kava or through commercially available kava products. Therefore, the relevance of these findings to real-world use is not entirely clear. The anti-inflammatory effect seen in the lab might not be significant in a real-world setting due to these differences in concentration.
I wouldn't expect any issues here, but as always, if you have concerns, it's best to speak to a medical professional.
