thalidomide + celecoxib

Thalidomide + celecoxib is an investigational combination therapy consisting of thalidomide, an immunomodulatory and anti-angiogenic agent, and celecoxib, a selective cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitor. Thalidomide acts primarily by inhibiting angiogenesis and modulating immune responses, while celecoxib reduces inflammation through COX-2 inhibition. The rationale for combining these agents is based on preclinical evidence that COX-2 inhibition can impair tumor cell growth and may synergize with the anti-myeloma activity of thalidomide. This combination has been studied in phase II clinical trials for relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma and malignant glioma, as well as in other advanced malignancies. While some studies have shown enhanced antitumor activity compared to thalidomide alone, the combination has also been associated with increased toxicity—particularly fluid retention and renal dysfunction—leading to frequent discontinuation of therapy[1][5][2]. The regimen remains investigational.