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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)

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Celebrex

(celecoxib)

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Summary for Indocin

Prescription only

Indomethacin (Indocin) is an NSAID that's used to treat different types of arthritis, including arthritis related to gout. It's also used to treat conditions that cause shoulder pain. This medication can be used in people 15 years of age and older; it hasn't been studied in younger children. The oral form of indomethacin (Indocin) is available as capsules (both immediate-release and extended-release) and a liquid. The dosage for immediate-release formulations is typically 2 to 4 times a day, and the dosage for extended-release capsules is once a day. Common side effects include headache, dizziness, and stomach upset.

Indications for Indocin

Pros and Cons for Indocin

Pros

  • Can relieve pain and swelling
  • Available in fast-acting formulations and a longer-acting, extended-release capsule
  • Dose can be adjusted by your provider if needed
  • Liquid version is a good option for people who have trouble swallowing pills

Cons

  • Might not be the best option for long-term use because of safety risks
  • Most forms are taken 2 to 4 times a day
  • Not a good choice if you have kidney or liver problems
  • Can raise your risk of blood clots, heart attack, or stroke (similar to other NSAIDs)

Common Side Effects for Indocin

Note: Side effects listed here are for immediate-release indomethacin. Side effects for extended-release capsules might differ.

  • Headache (12%)
  • Nausea (up to 9%)
  • Upset stomach (up to 9%)
  • Dizziness (up to 9%)

Warnings for Indocin

  • 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

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 Indocin vs. Celebrex

Price Card Drug Icon
Indomethacin1 vial / 1mg
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Celecoxib30 capsules / 200mg
$11.21$190.99
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