Medically reviewed by Jessica Swirble, PharmD
Last updated on 6/6/2024

Drug Information | Side Effects | Use & Dosage | Request a Prescription

• Brand Name: Celebrex
  
• Generic Name: Celecoxib
  
• Uses: Treatment for pain, inflammation, and stiffness
  
• Drug Class: COX-2 inhibitor nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)
  
• Availability: Prescription only
  
• Generic Status: Yes
  
• Controlled Substance: No
  
  

Celecoxib is a prescription medication used to treat pain, inflammation, and stiffness caused by various types of arthritis. It’s also used to treat these symptoms in children with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis.

In addition to its use in treating symptoms caused by different forms of arthritis, celecoxib may be prescribed to reduce pain and discomfort caused by menstruation, surgery, or injury.

Celecoxib is prescribed to reduce pain, inflammation, and stiffness caused by various types of arthritis.

This includes:

• Rheumatoid arthritis: An autoimmune condition in which the nervous system attacks joint tissue, causing inflammation and pain in the joints
  
• Osteoarthritis: A degenerative disease in which joint tissue breaks down over time, leading to inflammation, stiffness, and pain
  
• Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis: A type of rheumatoid arthritis that occurs in children
  
• Ankylosing spondylitis: Arthritis that affects the spine
  
  

Celecoxib is also prescribed to reduce pain and discomfort caused by:

• Menstruation
  
• Surgery
  
• Dental procedures
  
• Musculoskeletal injury
  
  

Celecoxib belongs to a class of drugs known as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). More specifically, it is a COX-2 inhibitor.

These drugs work by blocking the COX-2 enzyme, which promotes the production of prostaglandins—chemicals responsible for pain and inflammation. By inhibiting these enzymes, NSAIDs lower the levels of prostaglandins, subsequently alleviating pain and decreasing inflammation.

Celecoxib is available as an oral capsule.

The dosage and frequency of use depend on the condition being treated, its severity, and how you respond to the medication.

Follow your healthcare provider's instructions regarding dosage and schedule. Do not exceed the prescribed dose or frequency of use without consulting your provider.

Celecoxib is used to manage pain, inflammation, and stiffness associated with arthritis, menstrual pain, and other conditions. The effects can be noticeable within a few hours, but it may take several days to feel optimal symptom relief.

Continue using celecoxib as prescribed, even if you start feeling better. Regular use according to your prescription is crucial for the management of symptoms.

While celecoxib is primarily used for treating pain and inflammation, healthcare providers may prescribe it off-label for other conditions.

Discuss any alternative uses of celecoxib with your healthcare provider.

Celecoxib is available in the following dosage forms:

• Oral capsules
  
  

Celecoxib is a prescription medication. You must have a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare provider to obtain it.