Role of celecoxib in postoperative analgesia in paediatric tonsillectomy: a double-blinded, placebo-controlled randomised controlled trial

Tonsillectomy (removal of the tonsils) is one of the most common operations performed in children, but the pain afterwards is notoriously difficult to control. Standard pain management — including paracetamol and opioids — often doesn't fully eliminate the discomfort, which can interfere with eating, drinking, and recovery. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen are sometimes avoided in tonsillectomy due to concerns about bleeding, but some newer NSAIDs like celecoxib may offer a safer alternative. This double-blind, placebo-controlled trial will compare celecoxib against placebo (on top of standard care) in children aged 3 to 16 having tonsillectomy, to determine whether celecoxib provides better pain control safely. Pain scores, medication use, and side effects will be carefully monitored. Your child may be eligible if they are aged 3 to 16 and are scheduled for a tonsillectomy with or without adenoidectomy. Children with known allergies to NSAIDs, opioids, paracetamol, or sulphonamides, significant comorbidities, those already taking these medications regularly, or children with a history of peptic ulcers or gastrointestinal bleeding are not eligible.