Celecoxib as a Post-tonsillectomy Pain Medication

Post-tonsillectomy pain is typically controlled through narcotic medications, such as Lortab elixir. Despite its standard use, this pain control is typically not as effective as a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication (NSAID). The problem with using NSAIDs for post-tonsillectomy operative pain is the significant increased risk of rebleeding.

Celecoxib is an NSAID that is a COX-2 inhibitor; the drug is designed to act as an NSAID without the increased risk of rebleeding or hemorrhage.

This study is a double blind, randomized study; neither the study participant or the study investigator knows if the participant is receiving celecoxib or a placebo (sugar pill). The blinded list is maintained by the research pharmacists and can be unblinded when needed (such as in an emergency).

Participants begin taking the study medication the night before surgery and continue through 10 days post-operative. Participants are asked to complete a journal that catalogs the amount of standard post-operative medications taken, the amount of pain experienced, and any other comments.

Participants are contacted by phone at 5 and 10 days post-op.

Study participation ends at the standard 3-week post-operative check-up.

Inclusion criteria

• Age at least 18 years
• Indication for tonsillectomy (patients undergoing a tonsillectomy as a portion of additional surgical procedures will not be included)
• Have the ability to understand and the willingness to sign a written informed consent document

Exclusion criteria

• History of bleeding disorders
• History of liver or kidney dysfunction
• History of allergy to sulfa containing medications
• History of lactose intolerance
• History of asthma, urticaria, or allergic-type reactions to aspirin or NSAIDs
• Women who are currently pregnant, nursing, or trying to conceive
• History of allergy or intolerance to acetaminophen or hydrocodone
• History of allergy to any COX-2 inhibitor, including celecoxib or rofecoxib.
• PT, PTT, hemoglobin, or hematocrit values that are outside of institutional limits.
• History of cardiovascular disease
• Patients currently taking celecoxib