What is the brand name for Celecoxib?
The brand name for Celecoxib is Celebrex.
PTCE Top 200 · #111
Celecoxib
Celebrex
Celecoxib is the generic name for the brand-name drug Celebrex. It is a nsaid (cox-2 selective) used to treat osteoarthritis, RA pain. On the PTCE Top 200 drug list, Celecoxib ranks #111 and is one of the most frequently tested pain/inflammation medications — commonly quizzed on its brand–generic pair, drug class, and key side effects.
| Generic name | Celecoxib |
|---|---|
| Brand name(s) | Celebrex |
| Drug class | NSAID (COX-2 selective) |
| Class group | Pain/Inflammation |
| Common use | osteoarthritis, RA pain |
| DEA schedule | Unscheduled |
| Availability | Prescription only (Rx) |
What is Celecoxib used for?
COX‑2 selective NSAID used for pain and inflammation (e.g., osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis), and for acute pain/dysmenorrhea where appropriate.
What drug class is Celecoxib?
Celecoxib is a NSAID (COX-2 selective) in the Pain/Inflammation group. Knowing the class is the fastest way to predict its uses, side effects, and the brand↔generic pairs the PTCE tests.
Common side effects of Celecoxib
- arrow_rightDyspepsia
- arrow_rightDiarrhea
- arrow_rightAbdominal pain
- arrow_rightEdema
- arrow_rightHypertension
- arrow_rightHeadache
Major interactions
- arrow_rightWarfarin/anticoagulants/antiplatelets ↑ bleeding risk (monitor INR with warfarin)
- arrow_rightACE inhibitors/ARBs/diuretics: ↓ BP control and ↑ renal impairment risk
- arrow_rightLithium and methotrexate levels may increase (toxicity risk)
- arrow_rightAvoid with other NSAIDs; caution in CV disease
Is Celecoxib a controlled substance?
No. Celecoxib is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
warning Boxed warning
WARNING: RISK OF SERIOUS CARDIOVASCULAR AND GASTROINTESTINAL EVENTS — increased risk of MI/stroke and GI bleeding/ulcer/perforation; contraindicated for CABG pain.
How to remember Celecoxib (PTCE mnemonic)
CELE-brex CELEbrates COX-2 only — celecoxib spares COX-1 → LESS GI bleed than other NSAIDs. Still has CV (boxed), renal risks; sulfa allergy.
lightbulb
PTCE exam tip
Celecoxib is the COX-2-selective NSAID — easier on the stomach, still a cardiovascular risk. The LASA triple Celebrex / Celexa / Cerebyx is a textbook trap.
Celecoxib FAQ
What is Celecoxib used for?
Celecoxib is used to treat osteoarthritis, RA pain. COX‑2 selective NSAID used for pain and inflammation (e.g., osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis), and for acute pain/dysmenorrhea where appropriate.
What drug class is Celecoxib?
Celecoxib is a NSAID (COX-2 selective) (Pain/Inflammation group).
Is Celecoxib a controlled substance?
No. Celecoxib is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
Related drugs in the Pain/Inflammation group
Drill Celecoxib the way the PTCE asks it
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Last reviewed June 25, 2026. Educational use only — not medical advice. Verify clinical specifics with your pharmacist or a current label source such as DailyMed. RxReflex is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).