celecoxib + temozolomide

Celecoxib + temozolomide is an investigational combination therapy consisting of two small molecule drugs—celecoxib, a selective cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitor, and temozolomide, an oral alkylating agent. This combination has been studied primarily in the treatment of high-grade gliomas (including glioblastoma) and metastatic melanoma. The rationale for combining these agents is based on evidence that COX-2 expression contributes to tumor progression and resistance to chemotherapy; celecoxib may sensitize tumor cells to the cytotoxic effects of temozolomide by inhibiting COX-2-mediated pathways, reducing angiogenesis, promoting apoptosis, and affecting mitochondrial metabolism. Clinical studies have shown that this combination can be safe and potentially effective in patients with advanced melanoma or malignant glioma who are not eligible for standard radiochemotherapy[1][2][3][4]. Preclinical data also support enhanced antitumor activity compared to either agent alone.