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Compare Indocin vs. Celebrex

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

Key takeaways

Indocin (indomethacin) and Celebrex (celecoxib) are both NSAIDs used to treat various types of arthritis and pain, but they have some key differences. Indocin is available as a tablet, suspension, and rectal suppository and requires a prescription, while Celebrex is taken orally and also requires a prescription. Indocin works by blocking COX-1 and COX-2 proteins, which can lead to more stomach-related side effects, whereas Celebrex selectively blocks only COX-2, generally resulting in fewer stomach issues. Indocin is typically used multiple times a day, while Celebrex is usually taken once or twice daily. Both medications are available in generic forms, making them a lower-cost option. Both medications carry risks of serious side effects like heart attack, stroke, and stomach bleeding, but Celebrex is noted for having a lower risk of stomach problems compared to other NSAIDs.

  • Indomethacin (Indocin) suppository
    Celebrex (celecoxib)
  • Indomethacin (Indocin) suppository
    Celebrex (celecoxib)

  • Summary of Indocin vs. Celebrex

    Summary for NSAID
    Prescription only

    Indomethacin (Indocin) suppository is an NSAID that's used to treat different types of arthritis and conditions that cause pain in the shoulder. It helps lower inflammation and relieve pain. As a suppository, it's inserted into the rectum, typically 2 to 4 times a day depending on what condition the medication is being used to treat. Side effects might include headache and stomach upset. Unlike other NSAIDs, indomethacin (Indocin) suppository isn't available over-the-counter and requires a prescription from your healthcare provider.

    Summary for COX-2 selective NSAID
    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 of Indocin vs. Celebrex

    Indications for
    •Moderate-to-severe rheumatoid arthritis, including flare-ups
    •Moderate-to-severe ankylosing spondylitis
    •Moderate-to-severe osteoarthritis
    •Shoulder pain caused by bursitis or tendonitis
    •Gouty arthritis
    Indications for
    •Osteoarthritis (OA)
    •Rheumatoid arthritis (RA)
    •Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA)
    •Ankylosing spondylitis (AS)
    •Sudden pain
    •Menstrual cramps

  • Pros and Cons of Indocin vs. Celebrex

    Pros and Const for NSAID
    Pros
    •Good option for people who have trouble swallowing pills
    •Can treat many different types of arthritis
    •Available as a lower-cost generic
    Cons
    •Only available in one strength (50 mg), so you might need to use several suppositories if you're taking a high dose
    •Might need to take multiple times per day
    •Not available over-the-counter
    Pros and Const for COX-2 selective NSAID
    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 of Indocin vs. Celebrex

    Common Side Effects for

    Note: The side effects listed here are for indomethacin capsules. Side effects for the suppositories might differ.

    •Headache
    •Dizziness
    •Nausea
    •Stomach upset
    Common Side Effects for

    Adults

    •Headache (16%)
    •Indigestion (9%)
    •Upper respiratory infection (8%)
    •Diarrhea (6%)
    •Sinus infection (congestion, runny nose; 5%)
    •Belly pain (4%)

    Children

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

  • Warnings of Indocin vs. Celebrex

    Common Side Effects for
    •Stomach bleeding and ulcers
    •Heart attack and stroke
    •High blood pressure and heart failure
    •Liver problems
    •Kidney damage and high potassium levels
    •Severe allergic reactions
    •Severe asthma attack
    •Worsening of nervous system and mental health problems
    •Harm to unborn babies
    Common Side Effects for
    •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 Indocin vs. Celebrex

    Learn more about Indomethacin
    Learn more about Celebrex

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