BMJ open gastroenterology
Cure8 research brief
Why This Matters
People with IBD commonly have musculoskeletal pain and need safe short-term pain options. This review suggests selective COX-2 inhibitors may be an option for selected patients in remission when monitored closely, but evidence is limited.
Who Should Pay Attention
Adult patients with IBD (especially those in remission) experiencing musculoskeletal pain, gastroenterologists, primary care clinicians, and pain specialists.
Study Snapshot
Story typeResearch paper
Evidence typeResearch paper
Source depthJournal abstract
What To Know
Short-term selective COX-2 inhibitors have been studied for musculoskeletal pain in people with IBD; most evidence is from small trials and observational studies with variable methods. Two placebo-controlled trials did not show increased relapse risk in selected patients, but other studies reported occasional symptom worsening.
Because the evidence base is small and follow-up short, clinicians generally recommend time-limited use, the lowest effective dose, and close clinical monitoring when COX-2 inhibitors are used for pain in patients with IBD in remission.
If you have active disease, recent flares, or uncertain remission status, this review does not support routine short-term COX-2 use without specialist input.
Keep In Mind
This article is a narrative review (abstract-level summary provided) pooling small trials and observational studies with different designs and follow-up. Results are limited by small sample sizes, heterogenous patient selection, and short-term follow-up; it does not establish long-term intestinal safety. Consult your clinician before using COX-2 inhibitors.
Source Details
Review the original publication for the complete reporting, methods, and context.
Research paper
Evidence type derived from source or registry metadata.
PublicationBMJ open gastroenterology
AuthorsMichiel A van Nieuwenhoven
InstitutionFaculty of Medicine and Health, Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden michiel.van-nieuwenhoven@regionorebrolan.se.
Study typeJournal article, review
Indexed viaPubMed
Source typeResearch paper
PublishedJul 13, 2026, 12:00 AM
Content availableJournal abstract
Conflict statement: Competing interests: None declared.
This Cure8 brief is based on source text from the linked article. Cure8 is informational only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
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