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Ibuprofen vs. Celebrex

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and celecoxib (Celebrex) are both nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) used to relieve pain and inflammation, but they have some key differences. Ibuprofen is available over the counter and by prescription, while celecoxib is only available by prescription. Ibuprofen works by blocking both COX-1 and COX-2 proteins, which can lead to more stomach-related side effects like ulcers and bleeding. In contrast, celecoxib selectively blocks only the COX-2 protein, which generally results in fewer stomach issues. Celecoxib is often used for various types of arthritis and can be taken once or twice a day, whereas ibuprofen is taken every 4 to 8 hours depending on the formulation. Both medications carry risks of heart attack and stroke, but celecoxib has a specific warning for people with sulfa allergies. Additionally, neither medication is not recommended after 20 weeks of pregnancy.

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Celebrex Vs. Ibuprofen: Which Is Better?

Ibuprofen

 

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Celebrex

(celecoxib)

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Summary for Ibuprofen

Prescription or over-the-counter

Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that's used to temporarily relieve fever, pains, and aches in adults and children. In general, ibuprofen is taken by mouth every 4 to 8 hours, though the dosage depends on your age, weight, and other medical problems. Ibuprofen side effects include nausea, heartburn, and stomach pain, but taking it with food might help prevent these side effects. Ibuprofen is available over the counter and by prescription, depending on the strength you need.

Indications for Ibuprofen

Over-the-counter ibuprofen:

Prescription ibuprofen:

Pros and Cons for Ibuprofen

Pros

  • Works well for fever, pain, and swelling
  • Available over the counter and by prescription and as lower-cost generics
  • Available as tablets, capsules, chewable tablets, and an oral liquid
  • Chewable tablets and liquid can be used in children

Cons

  • Lasts for only about 6 hours, so might need to take multiple doses throughout the day
  • Might not be the best option if you're 65 years or older or if you have kidney, heart, liver, or bleeding problems
  • Has risk of stomach bleeding, stomach ulcers, and kidney problems
  • Shouldn't take other NSAIDs at the same time because of higher risk for side effects

Common Side Effects for Ibuprofen

The following side effects were reported in up to 9% of people in clinical studies.

  • Nausea
  • Stomach pain
  • Heartburn
  • Dizziness
  • Rash

Warnings for Ibuprofen

  • Stomach bleeding and ulcers
  • Heart attack and stroke
  • High blood pressure and heart failure
  • Kidney damage
  • Liver problems
  • Severe allergic reactions
  • Harm to unborn babies
  • Caution use in people with phenylketonuria (PKU) - chewable tablets only

Summary for Celebrex

Prescription only

Celecoxib, also known by the brand name Celebrex, is a prescription pain medication that's used to temporarily relieve aches and pains from certain conditions, such as different types of arthritis. Celebrex (celecoxib) is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), but it has a lower risk of causing stomach upset than other medications in its drug class, such as naproxen. The dosage for Celebrex (celecoxib) is typically once or twice a day. It's recommended to avoid taking this medication with alcohol since it can raise your risk for stomach bleeding. Other side effects include headache, indigestion, and diarrhea.

Indications for Celebrex

Pros and Cons for Celebrex

Pros

  • Can use for different types of arthritis
  • Fewer stomach side effects compared to some other NSAIDs
  • Safe to take for children 2 years and older with RA
  • Can open capsules and mix contents with applesauce, so it's convenient for people with difficulty swallowing pills

Cons

  • Can raise the risk of heart attack and stroke
  • Not recommended during second and third trimesters of pregnancy
  • Not recommended for use if you have severe liver disease
  • Might not be safe for people with a sulfa allergy

Common Side Effects for Celebrex

Adults

Children

  • Headache (13%)
  • Fever (8%)
  • Belly pain (4-8%)
  • Cough (7%)
  • Nausea (7%)
  • Diarrhea (5%)
  • Common cold (stuffy nose, sneezing; 5%)

Warnings for Celebrex

  • Heart attack and stroke
  • Stomach bleeding and ulcers
  • Liver problems
  • High blood pressure and heart failure
  • Kidney damage and high potassium levels
  • Severe allergic reactions
  • Severe asthma attack
  • Harm to unborn babies

Prices with our coupons for Ibuprofen vs. Celebrex

Price Card Drug Icon
Ibuprofen30 tablets / 800mg
$8.92$16.20
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Celecoxib30 capsules / 200mg
$11.21$190.99
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