Loading...
In March of 2015 we started hearing from readers of our syndicated newspaper column and visitors to this website that generic celecoxib was not working as well as the brand name Celebrex. The FDA approved generic celecoxib in the spring of 2014. At first we were a bit skeptical. The FDA keeps telling us that when people complain about generic drugs it is their imagination…a psychosomatic reaction. They’re used to the brand name and they just assume the generic product is inferior.
But we trust our readers. When a certain number of complaints start showing up in our mailbox or as comments on this website, we begin to wonder what the heck is going on.
Here is one of the first complaints. We published it in our newspaper column on March 2, 2015.
Generic Celecoxib Was a Disappointment!
Q. My doctor prescribed Celebrex several years ago to help ease the arthritis pain in my knee. Three days ago my pharmacy substituted with generic celecoxib.
I was pleased with the savings, but my pain has grown worse daily. Have other people found that generic celecoxib is not as effective as Celebrex?
Here was our response on March 2, 2015:
A. The FDA approved generic celecoxib in May, 2014, so it has been available for less than a year. Although we get complaints about other generic drugs, we’ve not heard from readers regarding generic Celebrex. If we hear from others who have been disappointed with celecoxib, we will let you know.
Others who have experienced with this generic medication are invited to share their thoughts below.
Searching for Pain Relief
Celecoxib is an NSAID (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, in the same category as ibuprofen). Like other drugs in this class, it can increase the risk of cardiovascular complications, such as high blood pressure or even a heart attack. Some people would prefer to try nondrug approaches to controlling their arthritis pain. We discuss a number of strategies in our Guide to Alternatives for Arthritis.
Over the last several years complaints continue to come in. Five years ago we asked again, Why is celecoxib not working and what can people do? Again we received lots of comments from people who reported that generic celecoxib was just not doing the job.
Fast Forward to 2022 and Complaints About Generic Celecoxib:
Eight years after the FDA gave the green light to generic celecoxib we were still receiving complaints about generic celecoxib. On this post alone there are over 350 comments. Many agree that the generic form of Celebrex does not work the way the brand name does. Here is a recent complaint:
Q. I have been taking brand name Celebrex for more than a decade to ease chronic back pain. My insurance company now says that I will have to use the generic celecoxib instead.
It does not work as well to ease my pain. I cannot afford to pay for brand name Celebrex out of pocket.
The FDA needs to provide appropriate protocols for generic drugs and hold those who produce junk medicine accountable. Is there a generic company that is trustworthy?
Here is our 2022 response:
A. Other readers have expressed similar complaints about generic forms of the pain reliever celecoxib. We have notified the FDA about this problem but have not received a satisfactory answer.
Brand name Celebrex is pricey. A month’s supply could cost more than $500. Even with a coupon from a company like GoodRx, the price could be over $400.
If your pharmacy can order the authorized generic from Greenstone (now sold by Viatris), you could save money and still get brand name quality. Another option would be to order brand name Celebrex from a legitimate Canadian pharmacy. A three-month’s supply (100 pills) would cost anywhere from $90 to $200 depending where it is shipped from. That is not generic celecoxib. It is the brand name Celebrex from Pfizer.
Fast Forward to 2024 and Complaints About Generic Celecoxib:
Here is the most recent complaint about generic celecoxib:
Q. My mother has been using the Greenstone version of celecoxib for years. Other generic versions did not alleviate her arthritis pain as well.
Our pharmacy was unable to fill her order today, as the Greenstone authorized generic was unavailable. I spoke with a representative of Viatris, who said Greenstone stopped making celecoxib in June 2023. What can we do?
Here is our 2024 response:
A. Many readers have reported problems with generic celecoxib. Greenstone, a subsidiary of the original manufacturer (Pfizer), brought out an authorized generic (AG) several years ago. This product was identical to brand name Celebrex and people often praised it.
Greenstone no longer exists as an independent company. It is now part of the company called Viatris. As far as we can tell, Viatris is not offering an authorized generic form of celecoxib any more.
Brand name Celebrex is pricey. GoodRx.com lists a 30-day supply of 200 mg capsules between $550 and $600. Even with a coupon, it is over $500. PharmacyChecker.com shows, however, that Celebrex can be purchased from a Canadian online drugstore at about $60 for a month’s supply.
To learn more about authorized generic drugs and online Canadian pharmacies, you may wish to consult our eGuide to Saving Money on Medicines. This electronic resource is available under the Health eGuides tab. While you are there, you may also find our eGuide to Alternatives for Arthritis of value.
SHERRY
I am a certified pharmacy technician who has been working in the industry for many years. Like many others, I was told by the FDA and industry educators that generics are identical in chemical compound to their original counterparts. While this is true for it’s “active” ingredients, it’s the binders, fillers and most importantly the delicate and precise fabrication that matter when compounding an effective medication.
It is common knowledge that generic drugs are reversed engineered. To better understand the significance of this I often compare this process to baking a cake. Using all the typical ingredients in a cake will not produce a good cake unless they are added, stirred and baked in the correct manner!
I am so disgruntled and angry at the FDA for letting down the American consumer! I can no longer work in any pharmacy in good conscience and have resorted to ordering my own medications from a Canadian pharmacy when I can’t find an authorized generic thru my local drug store.
Crystal
I have been on NSAIDS since the early 90s. Never had a problem until 2010 when I went on MC. Suddenly I couldn’t get brand name anymore. I went through every NSAID available. Nothing worked for me. Had to resort to aspirin, as nothing else was any good.
Finally, in 2021 I talked my doc into giving me a script for Feldene. I tried to get the authorized generic from Express Scripts but they told me they didn’t even cover Piroxicam at all under my MC part D. Ok, I found a legitimate pharmacy in Canada, and I order from them. I get the brand name Feldene as well as another drug. Cost is about 1K a year for both drugs. Would be over 10K here in the States.
Cathie
I do want to share how grateful I am to all the people who have shared their information on this site because you have helped me so much find solutions to health issues that even my primary doctor was surprized worked so well.
Thank you all and may you all find healthy safe solutions.
Vince
Celecoxib is not effective. Been on Celebrex for approximately 18 years for spine problems and my insurance company will no longer pay for name brand. If you read up on generic manufacturing guidelines set by the FDA you will be shocked. I have 10 year 200mg Celebrex that I had set aside to switch to 100mg to reduce fatigue during work and it worked taking two a day and spreading them out over 12 hrs. Now I’m frustrated and stuck with junk medicine and can’t afford to pay for name brand out of pocket. FDA needs to provide appropriate protocols for generic medicine and hold those accountable who produce this garbage.
HOWARD
Have been on this for 3 years now and am always falling. Am limping on my left foot from mis-step on left leg.
Joan
I agree. The generic DOES NOT WORK!! I buy mine from Canada. Now, because of the pandemic, I have to scrimp on things like food and dr visits. But the generic is HORRIBLE AND USELESS.
CAROL
Not good. Does not work. Gave me extreme gas daily. Had to stop taking. Generic drugs are terrible, in my experience. They cost less but do not work or cause adverse side effects.
Have to go back to Celebrex and endure the cost of it.
Cathy
34228
I too have found very little pain relief from Celecoxib (100 mg.twice a day-Celia 420 white capsule), which I’ve been taking for three months now for osteoarthritis in knees and lower back, awaiting knee replacement surgery. I do not have any experience with Celebrex but am wondering if I should request it to hopefully get more pain relief. I just got more immediate relief from taking one 200 mg gel cap of ibuprofen than the Celecobix.
Terry
Wisconsin
I’ve been on Celebrex for almost 10 years for fibromyalgia and inflammatory arthritis. The brand name gave me much relief. When I had to change insurance companies, I had to use generic Celecoxib. I’ve tried several different manufacturers, and NONE work as well as the brand.
Rebecca
Spokane, WA
Celecoxib does not meet the standards of named brand Celebrex! It is very ineffective, and that was obvious to me within days of taking the generic instead of the real drug. It is very disappointing that insurance refuses to pay for the real drug, and some will not even pay for the generic. The difference in the two is very noticeable almost immediately.
Melissa McK.
Scarborough, North Yorkshire
I am having the same problem. After taking Celebrex for years the pharmacy substituted the generic, and it just doesn’t work. Will inform GP office tomorrow.
Peter
Colorado
63 yrs old, osteoarthritis knees and back, have taken celebrex for 15 yrs, very helpful, can ski and hike, pharmacy switched filling with the generic and i never knew they did, never read the label closely, a couple months later after slowly getting more pain regularly( i assumed increased pain was just getting older and more wearing out of cartilage, for 20 yrs they are saying i will need knee replacements eventually) and i attributed it to over working manual labor at barn or exercise at gym, by accident i looked at label one day and noticed the spelling difference, and put the two together and called pharmacy and they confirmed they made the change since it went generic, had dr change back to celebrex and now back to normal with little pain. I have taken many scripts over the years and never had a generic that i could tell the difference before.
Shirley Keen
Texas
I tried Celecoxib for 6 months in 2017 after being on Celebrex for YEARS. Swelling and pain from this worthless genetic. I started taking 2 daily and still no relief. My
Rheumatologist said not going to take 2 pills daily. Medicated punished me for getting formulary for Celebrex by charging me almost $400 for 3 month supply. They care not that this genetic is NOTHING like Celebrex.
Lisa
California
I am also new to Celebrex. I am experiencing severe pain that seems to have gotten worse since I started taking it. I looked at my bottle yesterday after reading this blog and am also taking the generic Celecoxib. I had no idea. After two weeks of taking it I let my doctor know it wasn’t working, and she recommended taking two 200 mg. twice a day. I have been doing so for two weeks and still no pain relief. I see her on Tuesday and will talk to her. I called my pharmacy, and they said my brand is made by Lupin, and it is indeed generic. My insurance company, which is awesome, does not cover Celebrex. The pharmacist said to get the “real Celebrex” I would need my doctor to write a letter of authorization and submit it to my insurance company. It is $500.00 for 30 pills if I paid directly. I was diagnosed with Lyme disease in New England in 2016 which I believe is the cause of some of my joint pain but doctors in California are hesitant to treat for Lyme again as they are not familiar with it. I really learned a lot from reading this blog. Thank you all so much for sharing.
Debra T.
WV
If you are lower income and can’t afford Celebrex or your insurance company reuses to fill the name brand, Go to Pfizer’s patient assistance program, and see if you qualify. The income limits are very high, and your doctor can send the paperwork in for approval. Then you pick it up at your doctor’s office.
Debra T.
WV
Got a prescription for generic filled at a big chain pharmacy. Started taking it the same day. By 14 days I was in agony with my arthritis. I found an old bottle of real celebrex, and within 24 hours I no longer hurt. These were 4 year old pills and worked better than the “new” generic pills. I held them up to the light, and some were half full; some were three quarters full; and some seemed empty. Pill with imprint A 136 is White, Capsule-shaped, and has been identified as Celecoxib 200 mg. It is supplied by Trigen Laboratories, LLC. and it is JUNK.
Joyce
Kansas City
WOW. I’m just like all the others. Took Celebrex for several years. Worked great. Insurance switched to the generic, and it was horrible. Was like taking nothing at all. Went to the doc and couldn’t get approved for Celebrex. Said I had to try something different. I am currently taking Mobic, 15 mg. daily, and it hardly does anything for me. It has really debilitated me, and I complain all the time. I don’t know what to do. I want my Celebrex back.
Deb
Ontario
Agree, this new generic does not work….was part of the study 20 years ago for celebrex and Ive been on the generic for 3 weeks. I am in quite a lot of pain now. Celebrex for me was a life changer!
Warren
Perth
I have been using “Celebrex”200mg for many years, which has given me great relief for arthritis in my fingers. When I went to the chemist for a repeat for that script he informed me “Celaxib” 200mg was the same thing. I have to say that I only get 12 hours relief from pain, and then I have to rely on codeine which has been prescribed for a back pain problem I have, until the following day and take another almost useless “Celaxib”.
Mary
Grand Haven MI 49417
My refill of Celebrex was changed to a generic brand (Alembic 200 mgs) I have found that it is not as effective in controlling my osteoarthritis pain. Do I have the prerogative of requesting the original medication if the generic is not effective?
Terry Graedon
Mary, you can request it but your insurance company doesn’t have to pay for it. If your doctor certifies that the brand is medically necessary, sometimes the insurance company will cover it.
Cathie
California
You are correct the generic Celebrex is NOT the same. I had a old prescription and noticed that the original works .
The drug insurance plans are crooks, they know it doesn’t work the same. Shame on on these companies to make patients suffer.
Mike
Auburn, ca
I’m a back surgery survivor, took celebrex for 7 years, and thought it to be the miracle drug of the 21st century. I recently attempted to get doctor at the V.A. to prescribe celebrex. Celecoxib was all she was willing to prescribe. She argued with me for an hour about how they are the same. I have received celebrex at the pharmacy in Reno, but celecoxib is all they’re willing to send you. HELP!!! Celecoxib is a joke, no pain relief. They must think were all idiots. Must be some help somewhere!
Tim
BC
I have generalized osteoarthritis with back pain, a THR which is under investigation for pseudotumor, and a lot of mid-foot pain on the same side and also pain in opposite hand, perhaps from using a walking cane. For years I have been taking celebrex 200 mgms daily which has been giving considerable relief starting a couple of hours after the morning dose and enabling me to function quite well.
Since the last refill about 5 weeks ago with generic celecoxib, the hand and foot have been much more painful and seemingly less responsive to the medication, and I have had to cut down on my activities significantly. I am going to chat with my local pharmacist and GP to see what they have to say.
Brigitte
VA
Recently (2 yrs ago to today) started getting stiff back in mornings. Thought nothing off it till I injured my hip somehow. Long short: MRI of lower back, indicated bulging disk, plus mild to moderate arthritis in lumbar spine. Mom sent me some of her old Celebrex pills she can no longer take for arthritis due to her vascular problems. 2 wks later – wow! I could sleep again at night and rest!!
My PCP prescribed Celebrex and my insurance would only allow the generic. Soo.. I tried it. TEVA brand. did not work, pain and stiffness in back is back!! Went back to my Mom’s old stuff (the brand name). Went online to discover, yeah… the generics are largely a waste of money. Hum…anyway, can’t get the doc to just write a prescription NOT through Express Scripts which means – I can’t see to find a way to get and pay (out of pocket) for the Celebrex.
Any ideas how I can do this? Its frustrating – I have the means to pay, a doc who is willing to write a script, but insurance still wants me to use prescription bennies! Argh!!!! I’m getting the 75 percent off card and going to go out of pocket on this expense. With Celebrex the brand, I can take everyother day and get relief.
I’ve heard that Greenstone generic Celebrex works best of all the generics. Truely, drug industry is a total scam, and people’s health is suffering…FDA needs to do its job instead of taking kick backs to ignore these issues…
Teri H
CA
I have similar problems with Celebrex Generic. The generic does not work for me either. I ordered from a Canadian outfit and they offered the brand name Celebrex at a reduced price or I could order from Australia at an even lower price. I opted for the Australian price but it is pretty hard on my stomach. It is manufactured by Pfizer in Australia.
Not sure they use same ingredients as the US. Also on the box it says Celebrex but in parenthesis it has (celecoxib). I questioned them, but they told me if it has the Pfizer name on the box, it is the Brand Name. I have not been able to verify that yet.
Terry
I was put on the celecoxib 200mg for a torn meniscus until I’m approved for surgery by the cardiologist. Only then can I get my knee cleaned up, as my knee has gotten worse. The more I walk on it the worse it gets and can be tearfully painful. First the right knee, now the left. This medication has done nothing for me, and I have requested a prescription for 800 mg of Tylenol. Would this be a mistake?
I’m already on a pantrozole 40 mg for indigestion/tummy. I need something to get me through until I can get the surgery. I have iced and heated and tried to stay off it as much as I can while working and having to do life, if you know what I mean
Lorene Henthorne
WV
I used celebrex a few years ago for osteo arthritis. It worked great. I asked my doctor to prescribe something because my arthritis is keeping me awake at night. She prescribed celebrex, but pharmacy filled with celecoxib, generic for celebrex. I have taken four doses, 1 per day with food. I have not seen one bit of relief with this celecoxib 200 mg. I will call the pharmacy tomorrow to try to get the celebrex. I am in my 70s.
Gideon
Texas
200 Mg. once per day Alembic, pretty good
200 Mg. TEVA once per day, no effect.
Even Advil works better than the TEVA, but Advil is terrible on my stomach and intestines. That is why I like to use the Celecoxib..
Susn
Ill
I have taken Celebrex 400 mg for years and found it to be a wonderful anti-inflammatory. Since the generic (Celecoxib) came out the local drug store frquently changes the company it buys from. I can tell within a week or two which ones work and which ones don’t work.
The white with green stripes, which I think are Teva, seem to work prety good. A light green capsule also seems to work well.
But when given a dark green capsule (don’t remember the co.) and lately a white capsule with a V137 on it, they do not work well at all.
I had asked the local pharmacy not to give me the dark green last year, and they went to back to the white with green stripe or light green. This year when I complained about the white capsule with V137 on it they just gave me a white capsule made by Cipia with 420 on it which I am trying now. They explained that my Silver Script even picks out which generic that they can supply. I thot a generic was a generic to keep you away from the original Celebrex.
Terry
Me either, Lorene H. I’m 57, and my results are same as yours.
Jay
New Jersey
Generic Celebrex effectiveness issues…
My AS symptoms are getting worse with each version of generic Celecoxib that is sent by my mail order pharmacy which keeps switching manufactures.
Here is the history (no lifestyle changes w/ daily work walking & 3-4 days at gym for walking/biking):
– 5 years on brand name Celebrex @ 200mg 2x per day = 100% relief (~12-18 hours relief)
– 1 year on Mylan’s generic Celecoxib @ 200mg 2 times per day = 50% relief (~6-8 hours). Usually a blue capsule imprinted with Mylan 7150.
– 1 year on Teva generic Celecoxib @ 200mg 2 times per day = 50% relief (~6-8 hours). Usually a Yellow/White capsule imprinted with Teva 7166.
– Last 6 months on Aurobindo Pharma USA Inc generic Celecoxib @ 200mg 2 times per day = 25% relief (~3 hours on a good day). Usually a white capsule imprinted with “Y 200”.
Debra T.
WV
Greenstone pharmaceuticals is the only generic authorized by Pfizer. They got the patent directly from Pfizer and use the exact same formula. The rest are all JUNK.
Catherine
I too have been through the approval process to receive brand name Celebrex. But I have noticed a significant difference in manufacturers of the generic. I did OK, but not great on the Mylan version, but the Teva version gave me NO relief at all! If people could list the manufacturer of the celecoxib that worked for them that would be helpful,
Dennis
Savannah GA
In November of 2017 my doctor put me on generic Celebrex. It was a miracle! 90% of my pain disappeared! But 2 months later the supplier changed, using a cheaper generic formula. New formula is as effective as a sugar pill. My joint pain has returned, and I’m miserable.
Bobbie
MS
I took Celebrex for several years and then became fearful of the side-effects. So I went off of it probably 6 or 7 years ago. I am having so much pain now that I asked the Dr to again give me a script. They, of course gave me Celecoxib since that is what my insurance will pay for. I have been on it for a week, and the pain has gotten worse, both in my knee and lower back. The company is Teva. I am wondering if another manufacturer has a better product?
Suzi
Alberta
I have been on Celebrex for over a decade. When the generic brand came out, I was switched to Mylan-celecoxib, I’m not sure exactly when this happpened, but it’s been at least 2 years. I didn’t notice any problems.
Suddenly in the last month, my knee has swollen up, my wrists are unbearable after playing the piano and I wake up with in the middle of the night with terrible neck pain.
Check my meds, I’ve been switched to APO-celecoxib. Could this be the cause of the problems?
Kay
TN
Several different generic versions of the celecoxib feel as if I am taking nothing or barely more than Tylenol. The brand Celebrex worked very wells for years before my insurance required me to use generic (no coverage for brand if generic is available). Now taking twice as much with very little relief. Not been fun….
Pieter
Wellington
I have used Celebrex for years for my back pain – and it always helped after taking about 5 tablets over 5 days but last year I was told by my doctor to start using Celecoxib – because it is now funded! Over the last 4 months I have used 120 Celecoxib tablets and my pain has not improved – as a matter of fact it has gotten worse. Am I the only person that is experiencing this result? I am of the believe that Celecoxib is a generic tablet and DEFINITELY does not have the same pain relief?
Phyl
Australia
I am looking on this site because my pain has increased, and I noticed the pharmacist has given me Celecoxib this time instead of Celebrex. I don’t know if this is the reason for the increase, but will be purchasing a new Celebrex tomorrow!
Don
Florida
I have the same problems as all the others so what is being done about it by the FDA?
Kim
Massachusetts
I do not find celecoxib to be as effective against arthritis pain as celebrex. My pain is in my lower back. Celebrex allowed me to live virtually pain free. It was so effective I did not need to take it every day, but rather 2-3 times per week. The celecoxib is more effective than ibuprofrin, naproxin, and acetominophen, but is not as effective as celebrex
Noel
Florida
I have severe arthritis. It is genetic and runs in my family. It is throughout my body, my back, joints, and hands. I have been using Celebrex for about 15 years. It has allowed me to lead an active, pain-free life. In recent years starting about 2014, my insurance carrier began challenging my use of celebrex and switched me to the “generic” version, Celecoxib. Within a few days I began notice changes. My hands swelled, and I could not fully close or extend my fingers. My body began to stiffen. I had difficulty standing up and moving about. I started to experience soreness in my joints, especially my lower back, knees, and shoulders. I contacted the insurance company. They required a doctor’s evaluation before they would authorize a return to Celebrex. My doctor recommended the return to Celebrex. Then a committee had to evaluate and approve the change. It took about three months. I was miserable. I could not straighten up, could not open bottles, and was sore all the time.
I am now back on Celebrex and have resumed an active, pain free life! Unfortunately, I received a letter from my insurance carrier notifying me that starting the 2018 coverage year, they will no longer list Celebrex and once again (third time) I will have to go through the approval cycle. This time they may not even provide Celebrex. I received the notification on Nov 26, ten days before the sign-up dead-line. So far, I have only found one provider that still lists (carries) Celebrex. Perhaps, the objective is to compel patients to use only Celecoxib in the future. As my generation dies off, the up-coming generation may have never experienced the benefits of Celebrex and will simply accept Celecoxib as their only option. If so, they will also experience a degraded and more limited state of life than they could have had with the superior benefits of Celebrex. But they will not know the difference. Socialized medicine is all about the lobbyist agendas which drive the healthcare industry at the expense of the taxpayer and the misery of faceless patients.
Jeanette G
Kingsburg Ca.
I have been on celebrex for 2 yrs. When I first started this they gave me the celecoxib for 6mos. Pain never stop was just like I wasn’t taking anything for it. Told doctor its not helping any better than a asprin. So she change me to celebrex has work very good sense.
But the insurance I have is only threw Wal-Mart stores said they haven’t got a shipment from Man. this month so they subitute my med. with stupid celecoxib again told them what gave them the right to subitute with out asking me first and I have to get advance appovel for the celebrex it only last for a year.
They are giving me nothing, but the run around. Because they are out of stock so I’m ready to cut my legs off and its only been a week. There saying I have to wait a month for the insurance to cover it if they get a order in.
Marlyn
Mylan Pharm., who makes the generic form of Celebrex, IS Pfizer. Taking a Mylan generic Celebrex is worthless. Yet the Pfizer Branded worked perfectly for 15+ years and I needed no pain medication. I DON’T want to take pain meds! I had a life, now I don’t. No one to turn to for help. It’s all about the money, not the quality.
Rhonda
Oklahoma
I have been on Celebrex for a long time. When we tried to get me off of it, my pain would not allow this. Now I have switched to Celocoxib, and my pain is returning. It is unbearable for me. I am requesting to go back on Celebrex.
Michael
98101
I received the new Teva Generic for Celecoxoxib and I have stopped taking them immediately. I have had my pharmacy switch me back to the Mylan. Based on this thread I urge you to report back to your pharmacy to swap out the Teva Generic (Pill ID 1442/Yellow) for the Mylan (Pill ID 7150/ Blue)
Ann
Utah
My husband has been on one 200 mg Celebrex for 30 years. Due to all of his broken bones, etc. he had severe osteoarthritis until he finally found Celebrex. When he was switched to generic all of his pain came back. We called the pharmacy and complained with every manufacturer of the generic medicine that they sent us. We received the same information that every generic used identical materials as the “real” celebrex. Then the pharmacy sent us the Greenstone generic. It works. It works. It works. However, you must insist on Greenstone. They will try to send you other manufacturers. They don’t work. We have tried all of those other generic manufacturers. The pharmacy and the insurance companies will do anything to not give you Greenstone generic Celebrex. Did I say Greenstone generic works. It works.
My husband can sleep, do just about everything he used to do and isn’t as grumpy as when he was on the fake generic Celebrex. Thank you Greenstone.
Marlyn
The Greenstone company is a wholly owned subsidiary of Pfizer company. Look generics up on the FDA site and understand why the Greenstone generic is working, and why the other generics aren’t. No surprise here.
Linda
CT
I just realized that since my Celebrex was changed to generic Celecoxib my pain and discomfort has increased back to the way it was before Celebrex. Thank you all for confirming my suspicions.
Michelle
New Orleans, Louisiana
I’ve been taking celebrex for about 15 years off and on for shoulder injuries. I read the comments and hate that folks feel the generic form doesn’t work for them. I can only say that I can’t tell a difference since the VA in New Orleans gave me the generic version. I do have to take a break from it occasionally because all Nsaids mess with your stomach.
Kat
Columbus
I tookCelebrex 200mg capsules for several years with good results. With my current medication plan I can only get generic celoxicib. My hand and spine are much worse since the change and I have to use Pain relievers 3 times daily.
Diane
Ontario, Canada
I took generic Celecoxib for almost 3 weeks – Dr. took me off it today. Pain in hips and back got worse instead of better – couldn’t sleep and can hardly walk now. The Tylenol I took today worked much better already.
Dee
Scotland
My Pharmacy substituted my Celebrex for Celecoxib. Almost immediately my joints began swelling and becoming painful. I am now back on my Celbrex and almost immediately my Arthritis symptoms lessened.
Mike
Mississippi
I have been forced on Celecoxib for several months. It does not even come close to Celebrex for arthritis pain relief. Pain and suffering is now a part of every day. My doctor can not do anything about it and the insurance company wants to move me further down the line to an even lesser medicine. I had been on Celebrex for years with good results and no side effects. Is there anywhere that I can buy this with out a prescription for a reasonable price?
Millyan
FL
celebrex.com for saving card but you still need prescription from your doctor as refill. good luck!
karen
yorktown, virginia
I didn’t think twice about it when the pharmacy dispensed the generic Celebrex 2 weeks ago. Within 1 week, I had joint pain but thought I was just sleeping wrong. It wasn’t until the second week that I realized something was terribly wrong. I went to the web to see if others were having issues with the generic form of Celebrex and found this site.
Having been on Celebrex for over 3 years, I didn’t remember how much joint pain I had been experiencing. This was a shock! I’ve asked for the brand name prescription from my doctor – hoping the sticker shock won’t be too much.
Bob
Roanoke,Va
I was taking Celebrex for several years and it controlled my pain very well. I was switched to Celecoxib a few months ago and now have pain both day and night.
Barb
homer glen,IL
My husband has rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Chronic pain. He tried celecoxib and it did NOTHING. Ended throwing the celecoxib out. Back on Celebrex. We also have a Phizer Celebrex discount card where you can pay as little as $4 for 30. You can find it on-line. I have just been diagnosed with osteoarthritis and my doctor prescribed Celebrex. I am under my husband’s insurance and they refused my prescription and need a doctor authorization for the Celebrex. Ridiculous! The doctor is the one who prescribed it to me. What good is a cheaper generic version that doesn’t work.
Aline
Scoudouc nb
For me celecoxib did not work as well as Celebrex. After changing to celecoxib, I find is very hard on my stomach and makes me sick. And my pain is back. The Celebrex agrees with my stomach and I don’t have to eat food with it and my pain is controlled.
Robert
Macomb MI
I have been taking Celebrex for many years because of back pain from arthritis. It has worked very well. My insurance company will no longer pay for it. I have now been taking Celecoxib and am experiencing consistent discomfort and pain to the extent of having shots in my back to relieve the pain. I tried Celebrex again and had immediate results. The pain is almost non exsistent. It only hurts in the pocketbook because of the high cost of Celebrex.
Lin3a
California
I am 77 and have taken Celebrex for about 10 years to alleviate arthritis pain in my knees, hips, spine, shoulders and thumb joints. Recently the new company that I have to go through to get my meds has refused to give me Celebrex and has substituted Celecoxib (generic form of Celebrex). As the Celebrex left my system, over about three weeks, I had increasing swelling and pain in the aforementioned joints. FOR ME, THE GENERIC DOES NOT WORK. The company I now call BAD PHARMA is continuing to jerk me and my doctor around saying they have not received the correct forms although my doctor did send them in a timely fashion. I feel like I’m 90. Considering trying to get it at a reasonable price in Mexico.
Mike
Mississippi
it does not come close to Celebrex. I was changed to Celecoxib and I hurt in places that never bothered me before.
Mary Ann
Elizabeth, NJ
I have had arthritis for many years and had found some relief with Celebrex; there are no Plan D insurers who cover this brand named drug reasonably. I have tried the generic celecoxib on two different occasions for months at a time but have found it to be useless for me.
Felicia
UK
I too have recently been taking the generic Celecoxib for an old injury which occasionally flares up and noticed no improvement in my pain. Celebrex is so much better – The NHS have obviously taken a decision to reduce costs to our detriment .
Dana and Gladys
Arizona
WE NEED HELP!
My mother has made the same claims about the increase pain with generic Celecoxib. We are not in the position to pay the high cost associated with Celebrex but it does not seem fair that a person in this country can work for 50 years, pay taxes, pay the high cost of insurance and can not afford the means that would allow them to do little things around the house such as…… water plants or take a walk to the mail box. Something must be done! I have read hundreds of claims stating that this medication is supposed to be same and based on the complaints, it does not take a rocket scientist to prove that they are not the same (PEOPLE ARE HURTING)! The many doctors we have visited claim that these drugs are the same, however I wonder if they have tried it themselves? Can someone please lead us in the right direction? PLEASE!
Dana and Mom Gladys
Millyan
FL
celebrex.com for saving card but you still need prescription from your doctor as refill. good luck
Pamela
Chapel Hill, NC
I have Osteoarthritis and having been taking Celebrex 100MG, one capsule, twice a day for eight years.
Recently, my insurance company will no longer cover Celebrex name brand and will only pay for Celecoxib.
I have been having inordinate pain in my joints, since the switch from brand to generic. It has been so bad that last week I spent three days in bed.
This is a problem because I cannot afford to pay the $349.32 a month for 60 100MG capsules Celebrex.
Celecoxib 100MG, 60 capsules cost $34.28 a month BUT DOES NOT RELIEVE MY PAIN FROM MY OSTEOARTHRITIS.
Do you have any suggestions.
Pamela
April 18, 2017
Millyan
FL
celebrex.com for saving card but you still need prescription from your doctor as refill. good luck
Lynn
Michigan
Several years ago, I purchased Celecoxib thru Canada….I felt it did not work and then ordered Celebrex. I was getting ready to order again and I am happy to see that other people feel that the generic brand does NOT work. I will have to pay more, but Celebrex is worth every single penny…oops..every single dollar.
Mike
Ms
I also feel celecoxib is not as effective. I was very happy with celebrex.
sharon p
Colo.
I expected the generic celebre to work the same, but it said it would take two weeks to kick in. I suffered for two week, woke up with heel pain that was excruciating. Suffered another week with that as well and continued to get worse. It was as if I was taking absolutely nothing! I wondered if it actually caused my heel pain.
I want back on my old anti inflammatory, since my ins. will not cover Celebrex. The celecoxib had a huge co pay and was a total waste of money. I still have the heel pain, and the Dr says it is not plantar fasciitis and thought I had injured it.
Dawn
Connecticut
I, too, have tried the generic two different times over the last three years. My first try was made by Mylan and the second was by Apotetex. Neither worked for me as the Brand Celebrex does. Within 24 hr. I noticed the difference and by 48 hrs. I was back on the name brand. This year my drug plan will only pay for the generic and I will have to pay the other 350.00 monthly after using the Brand discount card for & 125.00 which can be downloaded and printed out on line.
I am also checking into purchasing from Canada, which has quoted me less than $100.00 for the Brand 200mgs 60 capsules a month. The generic makers are way off on this one because it does not work! I will stay with the Brand Celebrex where I am pain free.
I wrote to the FDA over a year ago and never heard back from them.
Very frustrating.
Mary Kay
Ocala, FL
I have used a Canadian pharmacy one time, almost 4 years ago. The medication came from China, thru Canada. The company robo calls me all the time from many different phone numbers including ones that have my area code. I would not recommend a Canadian pharmacy purchase unless you are will to endure the phone calls.
Lynne Gentile
California
I was on Celebrex off and on for years and it really worked for me. Recently I was prescribed the generic and it does not work at all. I was really looking forward to the relief I had had with the brand.
I’d like to maybe try a different manufacturer & hope it works
Gloria
New York
I also found relief with Celebrex and not so much on generic Celecoxib by Mylan. Are there some generic by other companies that are better?
Rodney S
Victoria
I tried generic Nexium. Ineffective. Made me nauseous.
Marilyn
North Carolina
When I take generic Celexobib, it is as if I am taking nothing. I pay for Celebrex non-generic rather than suffer. The difference was noticeable on day two. Celexobib is useless for me.
Anke
Maryland
My mother has received the generic version of Celebrex for the first time and has found that it is not helping as well with her arthritis pain. The pain increases every day and also the swelling around her joints is worse.
After searching the web, we saw that another reader is having the same issues. Have more people complained about the difference between generic and brand name with Celebrex? Are the 2 medications made with different ingredients? We had problems in the past with other generic medications and are wondering if this is happening again. Please let us know what other readers are saying. Thank you.
Jerry
Ak
I pay extra to stay on Celebrex. I think it is better and used to believe it eliminated most of my Arthritis pain. After being switched to the generic and now back to Celebrex, I’m not sure. When there is a 20% difference, I don’t see how it could ever be the same thing.
Linda
Concord ca
I have been taking Celebrex for many years and thought that maybe I was becoming resistant to its effects. Due to insurance I was switched to generic, which in most cases is not a problem. I recently discovered I still had a few Celebrex left and did in fact get relief again. I am convinced the generic version is worthless.
Henk
the Netherlands
I had Celebrex and was very pleased with the results easing the pain for longer time in my right hip. When needing new pils they gave me Celecoxoxib. The effect was not good, it didn’t work as good as Celebrex, so I startet using Celebrex again with a much better result.
Cindy
Buffalo NY
My doctor put me on Celebrex for hip and knee pain. I’ve been on it for 3 1/2 weeks and not much relief from the pain. I think I was doing better on Alieve. But for the last week I’ve had such horrible stomach pain and nausea. The stomach pain is worse then my hip pain. I’m not taking it anymore.
Kris
Idaho
I have been diagnosed with Fibromyalgia, osteoarthritis, and tendonitis (in both shoulders, elbows and knees). I have had steroid injections done in both shoulders and elbows (short term relief), and I have been taking ibuprofen (amongst multiple other pain/nerve meds). I informed my PCP that I was still having pain, stiffness, swelling in all these joints. Once again, tendonitis! He told me to stop taking ibuprofen, prescribed me Celebrex (I have never taken this). I ended up getting Celecoxib, I have had a sour stomach (bowel issues). It has been 4 days…I don’t feel better, and the expense versus ibuprofen…and the extra toilet paper, ridiculous.
Jade
Indiana
I’m so thankful that I came across this site! I’ve been on Celebrex for over 10 years due to arthritis in lower back and knees. Able to perform my job as a floor nurse without to many aches and pains. 6 months ago pharmacy filled my script with the generic and I didn’t realize. I felt horrible for the month I took the generic. Made a appointment with my physician to tell her how I was feeling and she asked if I was switched to the generic Celebrex and to my surprise I was. I agree with others and thought the same compounds were used. Don’t understand.
Carole
Australia
While in the USA I had trouble with my hip, I was given a Perscription for Celecoxib instead of Celebrex, it didn’t work as well as the Celebrex. I wouldn’t get it again. I have used Celebrex on and off for a few years.
Carole. Australia.
Donna
New York
I definitely think the generic Celebrex is not nearly as good as the regular. Ever since I have switched to the generic, I have had much more pain daily. I have also heard from my friends that they feel the same way.
Margaret
California
I’ve been taking 200mg. Celebrex since 2001 for severe back pain in my spine from Acute Achodiz Spondalious (sp). My Plan D Medicare plan started refusing to pay for Brand Celebrex & switched me to a generic version Mylan 7150. It does not work. It does not last 24 hours and makes me fell sick off & on. Feeling pain in areas I never felt before.
Somebody should report this to the FDA
swiss
Texas
I took Celebrex for years for a back injury, and it really helped.
I have been switched over to celecoxib and find it is not nearly as effective in reducing my pain. I thought the generic was identical to the original and am puzzled and disappointed.
Steve
California
I am a disabled Veteran with severe lower back problems. I was told the VA will not do surgery on my back because it is a degenerative issue, so I was given Celebrex 200 MG to manage the pain. My condition was partially relieved, but when it was time to reorder the drug, the VA substituted Celebrex with two different generic brands. Neither of the generic substitutions have given me any relief. The real brand of Celebrex is the only drug that provides any sort of relief.
The VA offers healthcare? What a joke! The VA is only interested in saving money; not providing healthcare to those of us who have served.
Sue
Macomb, Mi
I have been on Celebrex for quite some time & it took care of my pain. Now that I have the generic manufactured by Lupin, I am in a great deal of pain. I spoke to the pharmacy today and I will be switching to another generic by Greenstone to see how this works. I hope this works, if not for a 90 day supply the cost is $800.00! Not quite sure what to do at this point.
Debra
Fort Wayne, IN
Add me to this list! My arthritis pain was well controlled with Celebrex. Then because of insurance I switched to the generic Celecoxib 200mg. That was 9 months ago. My pain is not managed with this generic version. To return to Celebrex would my cost at Walgreens would be $800.00 for a 90 day supply, or $350.00 for a 30 day supply. So Obviously I cannot afford that. Apparently I need to check out the Canadian route but not sure how. So for now I remain frustrated, sleepless and hurting.
Mike C
Florida
I was on Celebrex for more than 10 years. This spring, I was switched over to the generic Celocoxib. Not only did I not get the same pain relief my pain has increased to the point my right hand is almost useless. I have been told they use the same ingredients but why don’t I get the same relief?
Cathy
CALIFORNIA
I have had the same experience as others with returning pain and immobility after switching to generic version of Celebrex. I am going to try the various manufacturers to see if any one is better than another.
Otherwise, I’ll have to find something to strike from my budget to afford the $385/mo that my pharmacy charges for Celebrex.
Mia
arizona
I cannot believe what I’m reading here. I have had such a significant increase in pain – agonizing and almost unbearable even in a resting position. I get out of bed or a chair and the pain is horrible. My knees are swollen – almost frozen – and it is so painful to complete full range of motion and my legs throb even when I’m reclining. I couldn’t figure out why such a dramatic increase in pain to my knees and shins …deep into the tissue, muscle and bone. I’m an Ultrasound Tech so I scanned my own legs both arterial and venous Doppler and they looked ok… no DVTs or arterial disease, but effusions (swelling/fluid) around my knees. I switched to Celecoxib 100mg daily because of insurance 6 months ago and that’s when I thought about the Celebrex – I didn’t have these problems. And the sudden onset of worsening pain coincides with when switched from Brand to Generic.
I’m going tomorrow to get a refill for Brand Celebrex.
Thank you everyone who posted your experience…..I so much appreciate it.
Susan
WV
Hello,
I too have severe osteoarthritis in my shoulders. I have taken both generic celebrex and name brand. The name brand DEFINITELY works better. I got no relief from generic. The Dr. told me by law that a generic drug only has to be 80% equal.
Kathy
Erie PA
My mom has been on both brand & generic Celebrex. Since switching to generic, she has found both Teva and Mylan products ineffective. Greenstone, Lupin & Actavis have worked well, but availability has been inconsistent
Lynn Schmidt
Nevada
My daughter was switched to Celecoxib by our insurance. She was previously on Celebrex and doing fine with no side effects. After two months on Celecoxib, her knee pain increased dramatically. She had rapid weight gain. Her joints started swelling. After four months, she had numbness and nerve pain in her leg. Doctor said it would “work out.” It has not. Celecoxib has not worked and has caused serious side effects. Trying to get back on Celebrex.
Sandy
Florida
I can’t compare the name brand to the generic having only taken Celecoxib (Mfg. Lupin Pharm) but I can tell you I will never take the generic again. I was on it for only 4 days for tendinitis and experienced more pain then when I began…even in my healthy shoulder! Dizziness and then edema in my feet convinced me it was the drug making me sick. Back to Advil!
Arbie
76210
I was looking up this information because I’m finding the same result. I want my celebrex back.
Laura
Toledo
I started taking Celebrex after they pulled Bextra off the market. It did not relieve my pain as well as the Bextra did, but that was all there was left as they had taken Vioxx off the market as well. Not sure when I was switched to the generic Celebrex, but last month I received the larger sized capsules. My knees have been aching so bad, I sometimes can hardly stand after sitting. Now, by back hurts and even my elbows. When I stumbled upon this site, I finally realized it is the new generic that is causing my pain. I contacted my insurance and pharmacy, and they can fill me a new 3 month supply of Celebrex and I will only pay $12 (using my insurance card and the Celebrex savings card), which is $8 CHEAPER than what I was paying for the generic. I am having my Dr. write me the new prescription today. I am hoping/praying this goes as they said and that I will once again be taking Celebrex staring tonight. Question: Do you find that it is better to take it in the morning, or at night?
Barbara
New Hampshire
The generic form of Celebrex does not work for me at all. I was substituting 100 mg of Celecoxib at night and taking 100 mg of Celebrex in the morning. My pain grew slowly worse until I realized why.
Linda
North Carolina
For 5 years, I’ve used Celebrex 200mg twice a day for arthritis until the cost went through the roof. I tried several generics, including Celecoxib 200mg. None of them compared to the pain relief that Celebrex provides. I can take over the counter arthritis pain medications with the same results as the generics.
I chose BCBS Rx to supplement to Medicare because Celebrex was particially covered. At the beginning of this year, they no longer cover Celebrex and yesterday I paid $505.41 for 60 capsules and that is using a Celebrex discount card, which discounted the cost by $145. It is reprehensible what the Pharmaceutical companies are doing to their patients. What can we do?
Lisa
IL - Illinois
I also do not believe Celecoxib is the same or as effective as Celebrex. I am going to pay $100 per month for the Celebrex. The insurance companies must know this!
Dawn
Baltimore
I did fine at first when the switch to generics came about. It turned out that my generic was made by Pfizer’s generic division, Greenstone. When the pharmacy switched, I’m guessing to a cheaper generic made by Teva, I was miserable. It gave me diarrhea, heartburn to the point of reflux, increased swelling & joint pain. I was stuck taking a 3 month supply. All of the symptoms went away when I got off that generic. The capsules were also about 2 1/2 the size of the ones I had been taking. I personally looked up the ingredients & they differed.
Barbara
Thank you Dawn in Baltimore! I will see if my Walgreens in NH or Boston can get the Greenstone generic of Celebrex. I’m hoping it will work for me.
In the meantime, I will get it from Canada Drugs, which has been wonderfully helpful and the name brand Celebrex costs less than half in Canada: about $225 dollars for 180 pills.
Shari
Now that so many people have had the same experience, what can be done about it on a national level?
Shari
San Francisco
I have been in more pain since my pharmacy switched me to the Lupin Celecoxib too.
Lura
TX - Texas
I also do not get the same relief from generic Celebrex.
Jeannie
CT
I took one generic celecoxib and was is stomach agony for hours. I hrew up for an hour, drinking lots of water in between. Finally less stomach pain. I never had this with Celebrex- taking off and on for 7 years now after wrist surgery.
Terry
Virginia
I have recently started taking the generic as well and it finally occurred to me that the increasing pain that I have been experiencing in my “good” knee might be because it is not as effective as the Celebrex I had taken for years. Just wondering ands I started looking here and found similar experiences. I may ask my doc to change back to see if it makes a difference…
Nancy
Ontario
My pain has increased a lot since taking the generic celebrex. I’m experiencing joint pain that I have never experienced. My pharmacist thought I was “out to lunch” with my claim that I found a difference. He claims it is the exact same ingredients. Why then am I finding a difference? Why is the generic that much less expensive if it is exactly the same?
Linda
Wayne, Michigan
My pain has increased 10 fold since I was switched by my insurance company and my doctor. It is to the point that I may have to stop working. I surly do not like the prospect of not working. Then, my family and I will be without insurance, so what do you do?
connie
massachusetts
I have also had the same experience. After using celecoxib for several months, my pain all over became almost out of control. I am trying once again a year later to see if some other factor or factors might have affected my situation.
Anne
Aiken, SC
Celebrex worked for me too, but like many other insurance companies, mine made me switch to the generic. I was given Celecoxib 200mg by Lupin Pharmaceutical. The pain returned. After returning to my doctor along with more test and seeing two new specialist, I was told my condition had not changed. I just spent the day trying to get the insurance to approve the brand name Celebrex. Turns out, it’s cheaper to use the Pfizer $4 co-pay coupon than to use my insurance. If anyone has an ideal about how change this problem, I like to hear it.
jeff
New York
I had the same experience the change from Celebrex to a generic I just don’t get the same relief
BETH
LA
Yes, I agree. The generic does not work as well as Celebrex. I have been taking Celebrex daily for several years & could tell the difference with in the first couple of days. I agree with other comments, the testing was not done on real people that use Celebrex!
Charlotte
Hoover, Alabama
I am interested in a comparison of ingredients in each : Celebrex and generic Celecoxib. I have a procedure schedule and usually I am asked to not take Celebrex days prior. This time all other NSAIDS are listed and specifically noted ” If you are taking Celebrex (Celecoxib you do not have to withhold days prior to the procedure). WHY ?
John
Victoria Texas
I have been on Celebrex for many years and have two shoulder replacements at University Hospital in San Antonio and now need knee replacements.
If I take generic Celebrex, my joints swell and I cannot walk. This is not a replacement or a substitute. Why was this ever okayed as a substitute if everybody I talk to said it does not work?
And, being on social security, we are now paying an average of $130 for the real thing since some non-genius said it was comparable. They should have to walk on these knees and try this for themselves.
John
California
I had a similar and extremely painful- experience. I’ve been taking Celebrex for arthritis in my spine for a couple of years. Immediately upon switching to Lupin’s generic celecoxib, pain relief disappeared and I have been in agony ever since.
Pat
Tennessee
I have been on Celebrex for several years and inherited my mother-in-law’s supply which lasted me for several months. When I had to switch to the generic brand I have experienced more general arthritic than I have ever had.
Trudy
One more thing about the generic celebrex: I started having gastric symptoms too — indigestion, and actual pain in my stomach. I never had a problem with Celebrex, and always tolerated it well. Can’t wait for my brand name shipment to arrive!
Trudy
Chicago
I have to concur with the comments here; generic Celebrex (celecoxib) simply doesn’t work. I am a long term user of Celebrex (probably 20 years) originally for a bulging disc in my neck. After taking it, I noticed that other early arthritis symptoms disappeared, specifically in my knees. I eagerly awaited the generic as the name brand drug price steadily rose. I started ordering from Canada to reduce price.
When the generic came out, I switched. After about a month, I was noticing more and more pain in my knees, which I hadn’t experienced in a very long time, swelling and pain in my hands, neck and back pain. Talked to my doctor yesterday and he said it must be the generic, with the suddenness of the onset, both knees etc. I placed a refill order for the non-generic today (still ordering from Canada). In the meantime, I’m trying to see if Aleve helps because the generic is like a placebo. Soooo disappointed!!
Thomas
Texas
Are you still able to get the Brand Name Celebrex from Canada, if so where?
Betty
Lincoln, Nebraska
I was on Celebrex and then the pharmacy substituted to celecoxib. After using it for a couple of months I could barely walk. I have had surgery on both ankles and have screws holding my feet together. Also my knees were keeping me awake at night and my arthritis is bad enough I am bone on bone. My Dr. wrote override and I went back on Celebrex and am feeling much better. They are made by two different companies and something is not as effective in the generic. Has anyone bothered to check this out? I am sure I am not the only person this has happened to. Thank you.
Terri
CA
I was using Celebrex for over 15 yrs for fibromyalgia and back pain. I have now been forced to use a derivative copy (if you want to call it that) of celoxiBAD! And it IS BAD!
Has anyone had luck with finding something that is NOT generic..yet? Both my scripts were changed and I am a mess! The other I am weening off of. My legs and feet are worse now than they have ever been. I don’t know what to do.
My insurance is even refusing to dispense as written, and refusing to dispense even though the doc says. Who died and left them in charge of MY HEALTH! We pay a lot for insurance! Why are We allowing them to control our health!
Jean
Texas
I too have been switched to the generic celecoxib, and have been disappointed in the results.
Celebrex worked great-had great results after only 3 days. I have been switched to celecoxib and have been taking it for 3 weeks with no relief. Unfortunately, insurers will not pay for celebrex because it is so expensive- so we seem to be stuck and forced to suffer with an inferior product!
Hal
San Diego, CA
I had been taking Lupin Pharmaceutical’s Celecoxib for two months and it really helped my hip pain. Picked up a refill the other day and the capsule was nearly twice the size of the original, but still made by Lupin and with the same dosage, 200mg. I don’t know why they changed the size, what filler they are using, but I DO know the new capsules DO NOT WORK for my pain. My only conclusion is they found a way to manufacture it more cheaply, but it does not work.
Mary k.
Mo.
I agree that it doesn’t work as well as the name brand, I am happy with the savings but not with the pain relief .
Anne
South Carolina
I started taking Celebrex in 2012 for back and leg pain after an injury. It worked well, no pain. Four months of physical therapy did nothing to help make a difference. Without Celebrex I couldn’t sleep because the pain was unbearable. My insurance company won’t cover it so I started taking a generic four months ago. I have an appointment with my doctor next week because I thought my condition might be getting worse. I’ll try to get Celebrex again before I try an alternative treatment.
Susan
Oregon
I’ve been taken Celebrex on an of for several years. An always got results in a few days, an within a week I would stop taken it, until I had another flare up. Went to a new doctor, she gave me a prescription for Celebrex, an the Pharmacy gave me celecoxib, I wasn’t getting any relief at all, so that’s when I noticed it wasn’t Celebrex, it was Celecoxib. Long story short Celecoxib doesn’t work.
RKT
North Carolina
I had been prescribed Celebrex since 2004 and always received near total relief. When the generic came out my insurance company’s pharmacy automatically sent me the generic by Teva. That worked as good as Celebrex. For my most recent refill, my insurance company’s pharmacy sent me the generic by Luper Mfg. I’ve taken it for a month now and the last 2 weeks finds my pain increasingly worsening. Minimal pain relief only lasts about 8 hours, if that. I wake up in the middle of the night in extreme pain for which I find no relief by using heat or ice or even tylenol. Nothing else in my lifestyle has changed and my weight is ideal and I exercise regularly, so it has to be this Luper brand of celecoxib. To get me through til Monday when I can get through to my pharmacy, I’m going to take 2 per day and see if that helps.
Steve
Long Island, NY
Ask your pharmacist for an “authorized generic” brand of celecoxib. Authorized generics are made by the original manufacturer, then distributed by other pharmaceutical companies and sold as a generic. They are exactly the same as the name brand, Celebrex (even look identical). You can get Brand Celebrex for the price of the generic and have it covered by insurance. The following brands use authorized generic (AG) Celebrex: Green Stone (owned by Pfizer), Mylan, Actavis. Teva is NOT an AG.
Judith
South Carolina, US
THANK GOD I FINALLY THOUGHT ABOUT DOING A SEARCH ON CELEBREX VS. CELECOXIB! I have been taking Celebrex for arthritis longer than I can remember; then, well over a year ago, our insurance company also made the switch to Celecoxib when the generic became available.
I noticed the difference but kept shrugging it off, blaming it on colder weather, then too much activity, then my diet. I experience much more swelling in my finger joints and pain and stiffness in my hands. (Yes, I’m getting older, but the medication is not helping like Celebrex did.)
Since then, my pain has progressed to my hips joints (left is the worst) and my left knee joint. This has been affecting my climbing stairs as well as walking. Now, after doing this research, I see that there really is a difference in the generic form. Our insurance companies save tons money on the generics, and we end up with a deficient product, and much unnecessary pain and stiffness. I believe that the manufacturer of Celecoxib (the drug company) as well as our insurance companies should be taken to task on this issue.
Stan
Florida
Last year when the generic celecoxib prescription became available, the pharmacy substituted when refilling the prescription. I used the generic for perhaps a month or so and noticed that I was very uncomfortable with the aching joints and spoke to my doctor. He specifically prescribed Celebrex, no substitution. I just had my prescription refilled (real Celebrex) and noticed that this past week my joints were aching more than usual. Is there a visual difference to compare when you look at a genuine Celebrex capsule versus the generic celecoxib capsule? When I put them side by side, they look exactly the same. I questioned the pharmacy and was assured that the RX was the genuine Celebrex.
Sharon
Tiverton, RI
I am in agreement with everyone that the generic does not work as well as the brand name Celebrex. After taking the generic for 2 weeks, I had a flare-up and suffered with pains daily. I didn’t realized what was happening at first, suffered many sleepless nights, missed work some days, and it affected me greatly, causing depression. My doctor didn’t hesitate on writing me a prescription “dispense as written”. It took 3 weeks for the pharmacy and insurance company to get approval for me to go back to Celebrex.
After only 1 week I feel great again! There is no doubt in my mind that the generic gave me the setback. People – stand up for your right to get medications that work, not ones that save insurance companies money!
Pamela H.
I started taking Celebrex 200mg. for Fibromyalgia and Arthritis pain and did well with it until it became Generic. Now I can feel the difference between the name brand and the generic! The Pharmaceutical Companies producing this Generic needs to rethink it’s Formula! Pam H. in Leesville, SC.
N
Canada
I’m in agreement with most of the comments. I have Rheumatoid Arthritis & I was on Celebrex for the past 15 or so years, then last year my pharmacist switched my to the generic version because my insurance company wouldn’t cover the Pfizer product. Giving it a try, my joints have steadily deteriorated and the pain increased. I am going back to the insurance company to find out what I need to have my old Celebrex back! I still need for them to cover as I can’t afford to pay it outright myself. Generic may be cheaper, but there is no price too high for quality of life!
Dave
California
I am in the same boat as many of you- I’ve been taking Celebrex for 5 years with great results. 3 months ago I my insurance switched me to the generic. Now I am stiff and in chronic pain. I am going to see about getting the real deal again through Celebrex’s $4 co-pay card.
Michele Chavez
St Joe MO
I have been taking celebrex since 2013. I notice when I have not taken my Celebrex for a couple of days cause I am in severe cronic pain I can barely walk then my kids ask me if I have take my Celebrex. I did not realize that I had the generic until I read the reviews here. So it’s not just me that notices that this generic DOES NOT WORK AT ALL MY KIDS DO!!!!!!!
PLEASE GIVE ME MY CELEBREX BACK!!!!!!
Irene
Indiana
I had been taking Celebrex for over twenty years. 3 months ago when I received my mail order prescription for Celebrex I was sent generic celecoxib. I started taking generic celecoxib and the pain has gotten so severe, I thought something else was going on with me. I was just trusting the generic to be the same as Celebrex but it is not the same. I am so discouraged I have cried about all the pain and I have thought about giving up on life with all this pain. I hurt so bad in my shoulders, neck, arms, hands and back. This is the first generic medicine that I have ever taken that has not worked for me. I have got to go see my doctor and see if she can get me back on Celebrex.
Dawn
MD
I have Rheumatoid Arthritis and I have been taking 200 mg Celebrex twice a day along with my other meds since 2002, until generics became available. I can honestly say I did good when the transition to generics took place. That is until my pharmacy switched generic brands. The generic 200 mg Celebrex I’m receiving now made by Teva doesn’t help at all. In addition I’ve had diarrhea, heartburn and above all joint pain and swelling. I’ve found out all generics are not alike. I did very well on the generic made by Lupin. I told my pharmacist my concerns. She told me that before the 3 months of this non working generic, that I’m stuck taking, runs out contact her and she’ll see if she can get the Lupin brand. If she can’t I’m finding a pharmacy that does carry that brand.
BooBob
North Carolina
I awoke yesterday morning with a very painful left hip and lower back due to osteoarthritis …. I could barely walk and was having awful muscle spasms. I then took a 200mg capsule of celecoxib and the pain virtually left within two hours. I highly recommend this drug for osteoarthritis.
Denise
Kansas
I have used Celebrex since 2000 to help with my arthritis and fibromyalgia pain. Yes, that is a lot of money to pay for the past 15 years on a non-generic prescription, but it was the only drug that would help me gain my quality of life back. I started taking the generic about 2 weeks ago. I’ve called my Dr. to see if something else is going on with me because I was starting to experience pain symptoms. My Dr. ran blood tests and everything came out normal. I was talking to a friend of mine about the symptoms and realized that I just started taking Celebrex generic. I have a follow up appt. with my Rheumatologist next week and I’ll see if I can get back on the brand name, it’s worth the money. I hope I can bare the pain for that long. In short… taking the generic of Celebrex does not relieve my symptoms as Celebrex has all these years!
Joyce
New York
OMG, l was fine for years until my drug plan switched me to the generic celebrex. Because the capsules look the same l was unaware until the stiffness, swelling and pain causing debilitation and a drastic change in my quality of life became unbearable. I have contacted my doctor and l’m looking forward to being returned to the celebrex brand name that always worked for me.
One Percenter
The generic of Celebrex is NOT the same….I don’t care what they say. This is second time I was forced by insurance companies, to use the generic. When I switch to the generic, my bones HURT so deep and painful, down to the bones. When I am on Celebrex, this does not happen to me. I am all for using generics, to save money…..but, not with Celebrex. I am trying to find the chemical makeup of the two drugs, to see what the difference is. Do not trust the FDA. The pharmaceutical companies do their OWN testing, and bring whatever parts of the studies they need to get FDA approval. The FDA does NOT “test” the medications themselves…. They just take the word of the pharmaceutical companies, that are only out to make money.
Mary
Iowa
I tried the Celecoxib several years ago and did not get any pain relief during 90 days. I have now tried it for the second time due to insurance constrictions and it does not work for me. Otherwise when using the original Celebrex, I have good pain control. I have not had any problems when using generics for other conditions.
Tammy
Bloomington, IL
I used celebrex prior to my knee replacement all other NSAID caused stomach issues. My arthritis is now acting up in my other knee and hands and was given the generic. I think it made me feel better but caused horrible stomach upset which the brand name celebrex did not. My insurance will only cover the generic as well. Has anyone had the stomach upset with the generic and not with the brand name celebrex?
DJF
Chicago
I have suffered with joint pain from arthritis in my knees for a number of years. In December, I tried Celebrex for 3 weeks, as a friend had some free samples. What a miracle! I felt like a new person. I then saw my GP, who is a firm believer in the product, and received a prescription. It was filled by the pharmacy with the generic. I have received no relief and am just retaining water. Needless to say, I’m living with the pain again, but thinking about paying extra for the real thing.
angela
TN
Immediately, I noticed the difference. I can’t walk well at all since being given Celecoxib instead of Celebrex. It is not the same and does not work near as good.
DL
IN
My doctor also put me on the generic Celecoxib and I too have had my inflammatory arthritis worsen. I had taken Celebrex for years and had no pain whatsoever. Now it is almost impossible to complete every day tasks with the pain and stabbing pains. The generic is not effective at all.
F. Jackson
North Carolina
I immediately noticed the difference in the effectiveness of the generic Celebrex. My orthopedic doctor agreed when I talked with him. The generic simply does not work for me nor was it working for him. The price has been a roller coaster ride.
John
Cypress, TX
I am glad I found this site. I have been using Celebrex for about 10 years for my back and rarely have a problem. If my back tightens up I just stretch it and move on feeling fine. I recently switched pharmacies and received my first bottle of Celecoxib. Over the last few days I have noticed a tightening in my back, and yesterday it locked up on me while pouring a cup of coffee. Reading this site it sounds like I need to go back to the pharmacy. This stuff is not working.
Joann
Overland Park, KS
The reason I asked the question was because I had noticed my arthritis was no better after taking the pill. Then I noticed I had been switched from Celebrex. I ache all over and one day took ecotrin and actually felt better. I have bought a new mattress and have appointment with orthopedic surgeon for knee.
Greg
Ontario, Canada
I was using Celebrex occasionaly due to T-6 issues and it would work well within 2 to 4 days and another 4 to alleviate any other inflammation, slight reoccurence in December 2015 started using what I assumed was Celebrex, but after no success for 1 month decided to read the bottle and found it was Mylan Celecoxib , the pharmacy assured me that the Mylan(generic KO) would be no different, identical in all ways with the exception of binders & fillers?????
Well I have reason to believe it does not work as well and I will rectify this situation with extreme >>>>
Pat
Alabama
I have arthritis in my hands and back. I was on Celebrex for years and it managed the pain quite well. When I had to switch to the generic when it came out, the pain in my hands has gotten so bad that some days I can hardly use them at all. My insurance company won’t approve the name brand and I have to supplement with over the counter pain medications. It should be agaist the law for insurance companies to decide on treatment instead of doctors! I take other generics that are effective but the generic of Celebrex is horrible and the FDA should make the manufacturers fix it.
Jane
Lincoln NE
I agree. Celebrex works wonders for me but Celecoxib does not work at all and I get heart palpitations when I take it, so I stopped and palpations stopped as well
lynn
Orlando, FL
I had been on brand Celebrex by Pfizer for years with good results. In January 2015 my insurance plan paid only for generic; brand Celebrex could be provided but would be full price, $671.81 for a 90 day supply.
For that reason I requested generic and Celecoxib by Teva Pharmaceuticals was substituted. Within a week I could tell this formulation was not as effective for me and within 3 weeks I experienced a full return of my pre-treatment arthritic pain and stiffness.
I discussed it with the pharmacist who dispensed a generic version by Lupin Pharmaceuticals which works better for me. I still believe I get the best effect from the brand name version. PS: I reported my experience with Celecoxib by Teva to the FDA.
Debra
Texas
Hi Lynn,
Because of you mentioning Lupin Pharmaceuticals for the generic version of Celebrex, I had my pharmacist order that brand.
I had originally got a prescription for 200 mg of Celecoxib from Mylan, and they did not work at all. Terrible!
I am soooooo pleased with the Lupin version.
I do believe I am going to make a complaint with the FDA regarding Mylan’s pills. They are ripping people off, and making them suffer.
Thanks again!
Deborah
I have been on Celebrex for many many years and it has always helped my joint pain. I am so relieved to hear others say the generic isn’t working because all of my pain has come back with the change of drug.
I was ready to call my doctor because I thought my arthritis is getting worst.
Sharon
Buffalo, NY
I am up at 4 am again because of the arthritis pain in my hands and feet. I decided to look online to see if others were experiencing increased pain since taking the generic for Celebrex. In reading the reviews on this site I have found that I am not alone!
Margaret
Florida
I have been taking the generic Celebrex and it does not work at all. I’ve tried taking it twice a day and my arthritis pain is getting worse every week. That have to know it doesn’t work.
Suzy
North Carolina
After years of taking Celebrex, alternating daily with Myloxicam, (to save $$ on the Celebrex), I was not getting the relief
Nicole
Cincinnati
There is no way anyone can convince me that the generic Celebrex is “identical” to the brand. I sometimes think that it is in my head and switch to the generic with an open mind and literally all of the pain comes right back. The next month I pay out of pocket for the brand and I get instant relief. Aggrivating to no end!!!
Sonja
Georgia
My name is Sonja and I have previously complained, as many of you have, about generic Celebrex.
Have any of you complained to the FDA?
I plan to do so.
June
toronto canada
I have been on Celebrex since they pulled Vioxx off the market (which worked wonderful ),since I am now retired and my husbands insurance is gone at his retirement I have been given Celcoxib. The past four or five weeks my large knuckle on my left hand has been locking (freezing in place) painful to be sure ,my hands never felt this amount of pain since I first went on Vioxx, along with this the knee pain has returned to the level of pain back ten years ago. I have degenerative arthritis in the cervical 3 4 5 disk and coccyx .After years of hard physical work I am 72 and still try to do what ever I can . Semi retired I find that by noon hour it is all I can do to lay down with heat on my neck(extreme pain) pillows under my knees two or three tylenol or at a real bad day dilaudid 2mg along with gabapentin twice a day and Celicoxib 100 mg twice a day .I am sorry for the spelling but at this point I am so dam angry. I am calling my doctor tomorrow and ask her to return my scrip back to Celebrex to try for one month and see if indeed this is the cause of so much pain .I need to add that three years ago I had to resort to using a scooter to get around outside as I could not walk more than a block and found I could not carry anything more than a pound of butter it hurts my hands too much . Thank you for allowing me to vent I hope for relief soon .
Melody
Gulf Breeze Florida
The generic Celebrex does not work!!!!! I cannot believe the drug companies think that this is a good drug. Whom did they even test it on? A person that has no pain at all????? My doctor
even got the approval for Celerbex for me and they still sent me the generic!!
mark
anonymous
Bs. My spine is fused at 6 vertebrae, along with shoulder and Knee pain. the generic absolutely does work as well, and I have been on it for 2 years since my insurance refuses to pay. It did take longer to start working the first day, probably due to formula; but once taking it daily, it works just as well. I swear by it. if I miss 1 dose, I am in incredible pain. A stomach acid reducer is definitely needed when taking celebrex. I’ve been on it for over 10 years, and it has caused ulcers. I use to take over the counter prilosec for this, and I’ll will have to seek another option due to the latest side effects of kidney disease, and dementia, associated with prilosec, released Feb 16, on National news. If acid reducer is not taken, it will definitely cause ulcers, because celebrex prevents the protective coating in your stomach from forming and doing its job. It took years for the stomach pain to appear, but celebrex is definitely the culprit. Brand name or generic. blinkhealth.com will be a great new way for people to save up to 90% off brand name at walgreens, cvs, walmart, and 60,000 other locations in the usa. this is great news for people needing rx medications.
Sandy
new york
I have taken Celebrex for years for my arthritis and back pain. I have always had great relieve from pain with Celebrex. In the last two or three months my pharmacy has given me the generic brand Celecoxib.
The generic wasn’t as effective at relieving pain, but it was okay. Unfortunately I developed an allergy to this medicine. I broke out with a very serious itchy red rash on my arms, legs and back. I never thought it would be my Celecoxib, but after eliminating everything else, I decided to stop taking my Celecoxib and the rash and itching started to clear up. Guess I won’t be able to take the generic version of this drug.
Phyllis
Oklahoma
I have been on Celebrax for several years. It is the only medication for arthritis that the doctors will give. I have a heart condition and am on warfarin. I went from 2-4 pain pills a day to zero. It was wonderful until the generic came out. My back, knees, and feet hurt terribly. I have skin rash. One lesion was as big as a half dollar. My kidney bun test is up along with liver enzymes. I had a biopsy done on the lesion and it showed a drug interaction or connective tissue disease. I took predizone and it helps as long as I take it. So, 5 days ago I quit generic Celebrax and my skin spots seem to be drying up. I am in pain with no medication for my arthritis.
Becky
Dallas
I have taken Celebrex since 2006 for arthritis and degenerative disc disease, was switched to generic several months ago, as insurance denied brand name. Pain became increasingly worse. I’m paying cash now while my appeal is being reviewed.
Doug
Celebrex brand works great for me.
However, Generic is not the same! It’s no better then taking over the counter – Aleve, etc….
It’s also crazy how now Celebrex is costing more than in years before – insurance industry is messed up too.
pam
topeka,ks
I am one of the people taking Celebrex twice a day for years without a problem-recently my doctor stopped one dose a day and then switched me to the generic-all I have had is pain-I have developed nodules on my fingers and pain in my ribs,back and hips and tendonitis in my rt lower leg to the point I can hardly walk-still he will not give me the Celebrex twice a day or even write the prescription as take one in am and one in the evening as needed as I had it for so long so I could at least take it in the winter when I had more pain-he is monitoring b/p and sees a slight increase-but my rheumatologist does not-she called him and agreed not to prescribe anymore but one dose a day-meanwhile I have had a back injury at work due to osteoarthritis and am getting pt-cant do my cpr because my hands hurt too much-I am a registered nurse-no the 200mg generic is not working-the first few days I took it I thought it was a placebo-have had joint swelling in various joints and pain all over
Lee
Concord, NH
I was prescribed Celebrex in March 2013 for chronic inflammation in my lower back. My knees were also problematic with the beginning symptoms of OA. Within 72 hours I felt like great both my lower back and my knees were nearly pain free! I was ecstatic! This kind of relief lasted two years at 200mg a day on Celebrex.
My insurance company switched me to generic Celecoxib in December 2014. Within a week I was feeling more discomfort in both my lower back and my knees. I never thought to suspect the generic Celecoxib. I rationalize that perhaps the Celebrex was losing it’s effect because of my age (60 at the time). The entire year of 2015 was dramatically different and I began to add Acetaminophen to my med regiment. It helped a little.
I recently decided to search the Internet for peoples’ opinions about Celecoxib and found this site along with a couple others where I am seeing complaints about the generic prescriptions being changed, soon to be followed by complaints the it’s not working “nearly” as well as Celebrex.
I am in this category, I have no doubt now. Today (Feb 2, 2016) I called my doctor and asked him to call my local pharmacy to order the brand name Celebrex for one month. This way I can stop the Celecoxib and later today pick-up my prescription of the “real med” and see what happens over the days that follow.
I will return and post a follow-up to this post. If I am able to edit this post I will simply add my experience after a few days or a week. I hope I can add very positive information about how my lower back and knees are feeling after going back to the expensive Celebrex.
Kitty
Texas
I have been on Celebrex since 1999. I have severe knee pain and fibromyalgia, I am in enormous pain since being switched to the generic by Teva. I can hardly walk and have intestinal problems.
The generic might as well be a sugar pill. I already am on Vicodin and Fentanyl patches, but with the loss of the original Celebrex, I do not know what I am going to do.
Nancy P
The generic celecoxib does nothing! Wish I could afford Celebrex or wish insurance would cover this. This generic needs a review as it is far from the brand and should not been approved as a generic alternative! May have to pursue this further!
Lee
Virginia
I was switched to the generic also. I was delighted at the savings! However, not only has my pain returned but I am having terrible stomach pain and nausea (gastritis). The brand never bothered my stomach at all.
Sonja
Georgia
I had been taking Celebrex for over ten years. When the generic came out, I started taking generic and the pain got so severe I went to my doctor and told him the situation. He told me there was a possibility that the generic was different in some way, but , because there was no specific blood test to determine that, He could not help.Because of the cost of Celebrex, I was forced to continue with the generic. After a while I was hurting so bad, I realized it absolutely was not helping. I have since gotten off the generic
and continue with pain so severe I can hardly stand up.
Barbara Leonard
California
I have been taking Celebrex, 200mg, for 15 years. My insurance company changed to the generic and I find it almost useless, especially for my hands.
Deborah
Salinas, CA
I also had Celebrex prescription changed to the generic drug Celecoxib without my knowledge. I have been experienced increasing pain in by hands to where I started back on my pain medication daily. It was only when I went to the pharmacy to get my Celebrex discount card from the pharmaceutical company, that I discovered that my when my prescription ran out, the new prescription allowed for the generic substitution of the Celebrex drug. I will be calling my physician in the morrow to see if I can’t get a new prescription for the name drug Celebrex.
In my opinion, with my experience and the level of pain that I have been enduring while using the generic drug, the generic drug DOES NOT WORK!!!!!
Leigh
Memphis, TN
I too have noticed a major difference in brand name Celebrex and the generic. Celebrex was a blessing and a true life changer! Generic was not available when it was first prescribed to me. When it did become available I was excited about the money I would save. Within two days of switching to this generic, I was a stiff board from my shoulders down to my low back. I’m not sure what the difference is, but they have not gotten it quite right. I do hope that they will figure it out.
Pamela Treat
Maryland
I also got the generic Celebrex and have severe pain now that I didn’t have on the Brand name Celebrex. Definitely going back to the Brand name.
Shawna
Charlotte, NC
Wow, I am having the same issues! I had no problems with the Celebrex it really helped my pain, but last month they changed and put me on this Celexoxib. After a couple days of getting prescription filled, I was like why is my pain bothering me so much so looked checked and noticed it was a different name. I also need to mention on the new medicine my face gets bright red and feels like its burning… Now I have am very sensitive to fillers in different generic meds so was thinking this was the same issue. I have an appt to talk to my Dr tomorrow.
Lauren
The same thing happened to my face!!
Jay
USA
I have been on Celebrex name brand since 2011 and as of my last refill Oct 2015, I was given the generic TEVA 7166. Since then, I have been experiencing increased muscle aches and muscle pain that I cannot explain other than the change of drug. I am very interested in following this topic.
Crystal
Brandon, Florida
After several years using Celebrex with great success to help with my joint pain, and fibromyalgia, Medicaid and Tricare will no longer offer brand name Celebrex. They filled my prescription with a generic.
I have no problem taking a generic and have used generics of other medications in the past. I had no doubt the generic would work the same. Within a week of using the generic my over-all pain increased. I was surprised but thought perhaps I was doing something that had cause a flare-up of my symptoms. So I noted my daily activities and routine and continued to take the generic. Another week passed and my pain levels continued to rise without my changing my normal, careful routine. I wasn’t “overdoing it”.
A doctor’s appointment resulted in a new prescription, so off to the air force base I went. I was informed that brand named Celebrex would no longer be offered but they had enough to fill this prescription.
After 5 days on brand name Celebrex my pain levels were back to normal; an average of a 2 on the 1-10 scale daily. When it came time to refill, the base had no more Celebrex and filled the script with the generic. Within a week my pain levels returned to at least an 8!
Some days I can barely walk. My life has deteriorated, my sleep is compromised, I walk with difficulty and cannot bear the pain of the seat belt on my shoulders.
My doctor sent a message to Tricare stating brand name only Celebrex, which was denied because the FDA has said the generic is identical. I am not crazy and the generic is NOT the same.
Who do I complain to now? I’ve filed an appeal with Tricare but was told not to expect success. I’m on Medicare and Social Security and cannot afford $300.00 per month for brand name Celebrex! This is a nightmare.
Sue
Fl
My doctor put me on generic celecoxib and I too have had my inflammatory arthritis get worse each day. I did not have the piercing stabbing pain on Celebrex. What a crime we have to live in this kind of pain because we can’t afford Celebrex.
Karin
Oregon
I have been using generic Celebrex for about 6 months, just switched back to namebrand, even though it is so expensive. But I felt the generic was not nearly effective for my arthritis.
KK
Dianna
I too had been using Celebrex for years and thought it was wonderful that a generic had finally come out, within 1 week of taking the generic I was in awful pain in my knees, I suffer from OA and RA.
Thinking it possibly had something to do with the generic I switched back to the brand as I had some left and within 2 days the pain had greatly diminished. Approx. 3 wks later just out of curiosity I switched back to the generic and again with 3-4 days the horrible pain was back, and being a nurse it really made getting around at work difficult.
I discussed this with my rheum. and said it was very possible so she ordered only brand name Celebrex but now my insurance company is giving me such a fit over the brand name and wants to charge me $505.00 a month!!
Cindy
United States
I have been on Celebrex since it first came out, and it changed my life. I was able to manage the daily pain. However, since taking the generic, my pain has become increasingly worse. There is definitely a difference. I even had my doctor write “brand only” instructions, but the price difference with my insurance company is outrageous even with the manufacturer’s coupon.
Linda
Naples ,Fl.
I also was changed to the generic brand and within 1 month my hands and neck are in so much pain. The generic is not working at all.
Melody
Utah
I have taken Celebrex now since it was marketed 19 yrs. ago. Though pricey, my neck injury symptoms included loss of arm strength, so expense didn’t matter as I needed mobility. The generic Celebrex has been notably weaker! I told my doctor it felt like 20%. I’m currently trying to find out if generic is not being “processed” with Sulfa. Celebrex is. My system tolerates Sulfa well and I’ve always thought that was why Celebrex worked so well on my pain and mobility. Does anyone know?
Melody
Gulf Breeze Florida
I too have been switched to the generic Celebrex and my hands are so stiff now and my feet are hurting me again. I hate it and plan on asking to be switched back to Celebrex.
Marion
New Jersey
Since I have been switched to Celecoxib, I find I have more pain, especially in the hips, and my fingers now lock from arthritis. I have had knee replacements and an ankle replacement, and really do not want to have hips replaced, as I have had enough surgeries. I never had a problem with Celebrex, but of course, the alternative is much more expensive. Who makes the decision to switch our medicines. This is the second one that has been switched on me, and the other was a blood pressure medicine, which was far to strong for me.
Tammy
Orlando, fl
As many of the other posters, I have noticed that my joint pain is not responding to the new generic as it did to Celebrex. I checked the Pfizer website and they have a coupon which lowers the price of celebrex to just $4. But, you can not use the coupon with a medicaid/medicare prescription plan.
jane
Canada
I find the generic form of Celebrex does not work anywhere near as well as the brand name.
Gail narron
Smithfield , NC
I have taken Celebrex for years for arthritis ; one 200 mg dose a day has worked all day, even though my Rx is for one pill x 2 a day. Since the pharmacy has switched my Rx to Celecoxib, I now have to take 2 a day because the 200 mg genetic wears off by about 5pm.
Kate
CA
I awaken as the tin man daily, take my Celebrex and am ready to run in 10 minutes! My insurance will no longer cover it so I have been on the generic for a month. It does nothing for me!!!! My arthritis pain has returned and I am so unhappy when I know my Celebrex is 100% effective! THANKS FDA!
Mayling
Canada
I agree with all the posts. I took 1 of the generic brand and felt awful without the inflammation management. I will pay for the Celebrex brand rather than taking another of this useless generic brand.
George
CA
I thought I was the only one !!!!!
I’ve been taking Celebrex for 10+ years (and Vioxx before that) for failed back syndrome. Celebrex in combination with my other Medication allowed me to function (work) close to normal.
I was switched to the generic drug by direction of new insurance administrator.
The prior pain returned slowly but continued to build. I began taking narcotic medication to relieve the pain, something which I had not needed for years. My pain Doctor also increased the daily delivery of morphine I receive through my interthecal pain pump by 10%.
I realized the pain started to return after switching to the generic Celebrex. As a test I replaced the generic with a few leftover Celebrex. Within 3 days my pain level decreased to what it was before and I stopped the oral narcotics.
I ran out of Celebrex and with 2 days of returning the the generic my pain level returned to higher level.
With Celebrex I did not have stomach upset as I do with the generic which requires a RX of Prilosec to resolve. The generic and Prilosec cost more than Celebrex. Battling with insurance company to authorize Celebrex in exchange for discontinuing Prilosec.
They’re not the same!!!!!
robert
connecticut
I too have noticed a drop in effectiveness when switched to the generic. One odd thing that I noticed today when renewing my brand name celebrex script…..the pills look identical and have the same number markings as the generic. I called my pharmacy and they confirmed that the markings are identical. They had seen this a few times before when the generic is made by the same company as the name brand. I still wonder if generic and name brand are getting coming led as I have not seen the improvement that I had last time I was on the name brand version (which was magical to say the least)
Linda
Illinois
The Brand maker, Pfizer, will listen to the reports of generic inefficiency… but there nothing they can do. I don’t know if contacting the FDA would help, but may be worth a try for us, suffering.
Eleanor
Illinois
The Generic Celebrex/Celecoxib is worthless! The FDA needs to monitor the generic manufacturers better. Something is not connecting in the formula! SO, many people not obtaining the relief it is suppose to give. I have Barrett’s Esophagus, a precursor to esophageal cancer, other anti-inflammatories are not an option, related to their irritation of gastric mucosa…. Can NOT afford a Brand pill, it is more than $10/pill since insurance will only pay for generic now that it is available. That charge on top of a thousand dollar health insurance premium per month!
Linda
Illinois
The generic Celebrex does not work! Within 3 days of beginning it, my joint pain returned and worsened.
I tried to tough it out for almost 3 weeks, believing the FDA remarks about generic drugs being’identical.’ It is NOT.
I found a few leftover brand name Celebrex and within a day and a half, my symptoms were again under control. My insurance will only pay for the generic. The brand name is available per Dr. order, but the cost is astronomical and out of reach, unaffordable…an incredible cost on top of an $1100/month premium to BCBS.
So suffering is only choice….. this is wrong. I am going to try a different manufacturer to see if it was just the one that was used, but by the sounds of all these comments, MANY are not being treated with the equivalent of brand Celebrex with the Generic we are forced to get.
jackie
miami
I’m very dissatisfied with the generic form of Celebrex. It is absolutely no where near the same pain reliever… The one thing it does do is upset my stomach. I’m very upset I paid hard earned money for nothing. Aleve works better!!
barb hamki
jefferson , oh
I too have been taking Celebrex for 20 years with very good results. I have osterarthritis very bad and i’m on Coumadin so I can’t take asprin, naprosen, Tylenol, for my pain, so I take Celebrex. the last time my prescription was refilled they sent me generic. the generic does not work. I felt arthritis pain all over my body. why do the pharmacists and suppliers tell us that Celebrex and celecoxib are the same? they areNOT!
Gam
Manchaca , Tx
I was offered the Generic to Celebrex ( celecoxib) . After a week I started feeling the pain in my joints lower back and knees, as before I took Celebrex two years earlier. I wasn’t sure what was going on but process of elimination took me to the Generic celecoxib. I decided to continue to take this Generic to give it a chance to get in my system and work for me. My pain continued to advance and I now after 6 weeks, I can’t take the progressing pain anymore!! I called my provider to complain and my provider agreed to approve the name brand Celebrex but with a penalty, I can’t afford. I’m stuck with a sub standard Generic drug approved by the FDA. I’m disappointed
( not the word I really want to express my dissatisfaction with) but I find myself with no help and no options. ?
Amy
Go to Celebrex’s website, they offer a savings card. I pay $4 for Celebrex with the savings card and it cost $7 for the GENERIC. Was shocked that it was cheaper for the real deal!!!
Charlotte
Saco maine
Tried Celecoxib for the first time today.What a let down. No relief what so ever. Calling doctor first thing tomorrow.
Karen
Nj
I’ve been taking Celebrex for about 15 yrs. The generic doesn’t see to help me as much. Also, I have have gas and stomach pain
Kiem
Stillwater, Oklahoma
celecoxib does not seem to work for me as celebrex. I am glad to hear from others on this. I had thought why I want to pay 10 times more for celebrex, and not satisfy with celecoxib! Now I know it may not work as celebrex does.
Marjorie
Indiana
I have been taking Celebrex for many years and insurance recently changed it to Celecoxib and it does not treat same as Celebrex very discouraged.
Linda A
Aurora CO
The generic of Celebrex, celecoxib, gave me an allergic reaction which caused severe vomiting and diarrhea. About 6 years ago I had the same kind of reaction to Lodine, but had to go to the hospital since it caused my windpipe to close up. I will never take this generic version of the Celebrex again since I never had problems with the name brand!!
John
Va
I switched to the generic Celebrex and it does not seem to work for me. Being taking Celebrex 100mg for over 10 and it worked for me but the genetic does not
mary
Pennsylvania
Since insurance no longer covers Celebrex, 3 weeks ago I received the generic. I now have pain in several areas of my body, all more limiting than before. It doesn’t seem to work for me.
Cindy
Carrollton texas
I have taken Celebrex for years for my neck pain and it worked fablously. I got Celebox a generic and my pain level is a 10.. I would pay for the cost of the real thing. I hate generic drugs. They do not work for me at all.
leslie gorombol
Painesville ohio
It dosent work for me. I pay the higher price
leslie gorombol
Painesville ohio
I was taking Celebrex and it was keeping my pain in my hands from Rheumatoid at bay my Insurance changed me to the generic Clexicob and my pain is back and getting worse daily ..
Judy
Edmonton , AB
I too am very unhappy with the generic brand . My last prescription they offered me the generic brand of Celebrex at a much lower price so I was Very HAPPY but after taking it for the last 5 weeks the pain in my arthritic knee and hip just keeps getting worse – I can hardly stand it ! can’t even walk – at first I thought there must be some other reason my pain was so much worse but the med is the only thing I can come up with and since seeing that many others are having the same problem I realize that I am not crazy ! when I go for my refill I will be asking for the Celebrex Brand !
James
I’ve found that Aleve beats the effectiveness of Celecoxib generic for me, so I’ve given up on refilling it.
joann
ont.canada
i have just recieved the new medication and taken 12 pills and notice an immedieate difference ,that its NOT working . so called pharmacy to refill back to celebrex not happy about the finanical loss but but cant take the increase in pain. Joann.
Judy
Ohio
Car accident 36 years ago with two brokn ankles. Knee replacement in the left leg from the limping and partial fusion in the right ankle. Do I have arthritis, you bet I do. I have been on Celebrex for about 10 years My pharmacy says they no longer pay for the brand now that the generic is out. I do all the right things and have been told it is a wonder I am walking. Thanks for helping us get the word out
Eric
Colorado
Pretty emotional right now. Thank you God, I thought I was the only one. My experiences are so similar to most here. I’ve been on Celebrex for 15 years and felt good, exercised daily and was very mobile. This last April Cigna home delivery started sending me Celecoxib, I really didn’t pay attention to the change. Since mid May I have not been able to exercise, have gained 20 pounds, am back on insulin. Not sure how to approach this with my doc or Cigna without going postal.
Elizabeth Mahews
Louisiana
I have started on Celecoxib about 4 months age, my pain has increased especially in the morning where I can’t hardly bend. I’ve been on Celebrex over 14 hrs and felt great. I think it is a time thing, it helps when I first take or but by evening I start to feel worst to the point that it wakes me up.
I’m 65 and active, this is just not acceptable to me.
joanne
surrey, bc
I had been on celebrex and I had good pain relief. The pharmacy said my insurance company will pay for generic so I changed. I no longer get a better relief like celebrex. The generic just takes the edge off and only last 5 to 6 hours. When reading up on the generic the line in any article says the generic “has” celebrex in it. Hence I question how much and what additives are in there? My neighbor 38 years at children’s hospital explained this particular generic has been questioned if all is celebrex and agreed with me when the lines say Celebrex “in it”. These are thoughts not a medical professional opinion. I am renewing my prescription for Celebrex and not the generic as I had better relief than generic.
Debbie
Florida
I had been taking brand Celebrex for more than 10 yrs / 200mg daily with no problems FELT GREAT. Three months ago I switched to generic and as the months have gone by, I have had stiffness, joint issues, fatigue and pain. I will be returning to brand Celebrex so I can once again enjoy my life.
Cindy Gowing
dallas texas
Totally agree. Same with me. Why doesn’t Celebrex lower its cost to keep up with the generic.
Norma
Michigan
The cost savings seemed great, but three months later the level of pain I’m experiencing puts the decision definitely in the category of “penny-wise, pound-foolish.” I will be discussing this with my physician later this week.
Mary
South Carolina
Since my physician switched me to the generic form of Celebrex, I was pleased with the price. However, it feels as if I am taking nothing. What are others saying?
Pat
Iowa
I have experienced the same ineffectiveness of the generic. And the cost savings was not that great. I am glad to find out that I am not alone and that I do not have to “settle” for an inferior product. Something went very wrong with this generic and I will not take it again. Please continue your efforts to bring this problem to attention. Sometimes we consumers feel so helpless, but we do know what is going on in our own bodies.
Margo
atl
generic Celebrex is like taking water. My pain is so much worse. I went on generic earlier this year and had 2 lumbar epidurals. Went back on brand name and felt so much better. I have arthritis in my back and neck.
Lynn
Tenn
Originally my doc gave me a script of the brand Celebrex & it was working very well for arthritis. I noticed a few weeks ago I was hurting in several locations. I looked at my bottle and it was the generic, Celecoxib. My doc called to be sure I get the brand. Went to p/u and the pills look identical. Just hoping I see improvement in the next few days.
Loraine
Northern NJ
I have posted a comment earlier about my dissatisfaction and dissapoinment in the lack of pain relief from the generic celebrex. An update- I called my Dr. and explained the problem- no pain relief, and he wrote a prescription for Brand Name only with no questions other than if I had any other side effects. Thinking back now, I was experiencing terrible leg cramps at night which would wake me up, and haven’t had the problem since going back on the Brand Name –also would wake each morning with many aches that I never had before -and what a difference in pain relief now- I will never take the generic again, no matter what the pharmasist claims…although instead of paying $30. for the generic I now have to pay twice that amount but it is worth every penny for the pain relief I am now getting on the Brand Name.
Mandy
Missouri
I have been on Celebrex for many years. In May 2015 my joints began acting up, June I became worse with stiffness and pain in joints. In July I noticed while picking up my prescription that it was the generic. I asked the pharmacist how long they have been giving me the generic form and they stated since May. I asked them to go back to Celebrex as my joints have been a mess since that time frame. Turns out— upon return to Celebrex- the stiffness and pain went away.
I will not take the generic again!!!
Louis
Maryland
I play guitar and the pain and range of motion with arthritis, can take its toll on the fingers. I was used to taking CELEBREX every other day or every 2 days as directed by my PCP . It was a take when needed proposition. I was slipped the generic version of Celebrex about 2 months ago and my hands were hurting more and more every week. I started taking a pill every day until I realized that I was taking generics. Went to my PCP and got that corrected. She gave me a sample box and WHAT A DIFFERENCE. Simply a shame what is allowed to happen in the marketplace.
Marilyn
Maryland
I walk and swim to try to stay young and healthy, but I can’t believe how much older I have been feeling lately thanks to joint pain in ankles, foot, knee, hip and back, and the switch from Celebrex to Celecoxib. I was recovering from knee surgery 8 months ago, but my knee is now worse than it was before surgery and physical therapy. The recent surge in pain and stiffness all over has seriously affected my quality of life and my health. It is almost as if the generic is actually a placebo.
Carol
NY
I have posted before but have a continuing saga of the use of generic celebrex. I finally got name brand celebrex using the coupon from the manufacturer, thanks to this site. I also finally saw a rheumatologist who had me take an MRI. My pain on the generic affected not only my joints, but my muscles and nerves. I had very severe pain down my legs. I had to go for multiple medical tests, and sleep on a recliner instead of my new bed, which I bought to help my back problem after taking the generic. Now that I have taken the name brand for a few weeks, things seem to be easing up. Thank you for allowing others to share their information. I am now hopeful that my arthritis pain will soon be much more manageable.
Norma
Arizona
I have been taking Celebrex for over 10 years, and it has kept my arthritis in check. Last month my insurance plan changed it to Celecoxib.
I was happy at first for the cost savings it allowed, BUT it has been 4 weeks, and I have realized that my pain is due to swollen hands in the morning and an aching in my knee replacement and other joints. I am an avid golfer and was seriously thinging of giving it up due to my hands hurting so badly.
For me the savings of money is not worth the pain. I plan to fight to get back my Celebrex.
Bessie
N.C.
I began taking Celebrex five years ago for my osteoarthritis and degenerative disc disease. I experienced most affective results. Because of a change in my Rx plan, I switched to generic Celebrex in May 2015. By early June, my joints, lower back and neck were “on fire”. I had no idea it was related to my change to the generic Celebrex. I replaced a one year old mattress, replaced year old bed pillow, purchased a different recliner, went to a podiatrist and returned to my Physical Therapist. After finding little to no relief, along with making other lifestyle changes, for a three month period, my Physical Therapist recommended returning to the brand name. I experienced immediate relief after the first day of returning to Celebrex brand name. The generic, made by the same manufacturer, caused me three months of exhausting pain!
Sharon
Marysville, WA
My pharmacy changed my Celebrex Rx to Celecoxib without asking or telling me.
I am back to not being able to sleep at night due to arthritis in my hips and now it is painful during the day as well and I am starting to limit my activities because of it.
The pharmacy says they are the same, but my hips tell me they are not.
Elizabeth
South Carolina
Without a doubt, the generic celecoxib is not as effective as Celebrex, at least for me. It is like taking nothing. I have had Achilles tendonitis for 2.5 years, and got excellent relief from Celebrex. The generic is useless, so I’m refilling it for the more expensive, but reliable version.
Sylvia
Florida
After reading all of the similar to mine experience, I would like to know if anyone knows what the actual difference is. I tried to Google both drugs and have never been able to get an actual sensible comparison difference.
Sylvia Karnyski
Florida
For several years I have used the actual Celebrex prescription. Early this year the pharmacy filled my prescription with the generic form Celecoxib. After several weeks of using the generic drug I noticed that I was experiencing little help from the generic form and relied on using the samples that the doctor had given to me. I actually requested that my doctor request that no substitution be made. I do not know why the generic looks exactly like the actual Celebrex drug right down to the numbers and dosage printed on the actual capsule. Other than the price, what exactly is the difference between the two drugs?
Heather
Canada
I have severe Rheumatoid Arthritis and I was taking Celebrex 2x200mg/day for 20 years. The results were amazing. Then came Generic. I was paying $140/month for my pills then generic was on $36/month. Seeing I have no health plan I went with the savings.
What a mistake, for the last 6 months I couldn’t figure out why so much pain, thought I was just having flare ups and it would get better with the medication. I was told by both my pharmacist and my Dr. that the Generic works the same. Never before have I had severe hip/knee/leg pain so bad sometimes I can’t move. I’m going back to see my Rheumatologist and have this explained. My recommendation if you can afford to remain on Brand name do so as this Generic is garbage!
Olivia
Michigan
Not only did the generic Celebrex not work, but also caused terrible side effects such as breathing difficulties and sinus problems. I stopped taking it and all the side effects disappeared after a week. I started taking it again just to prove my theory, and it all started happening again. My question is why havent the makers of Celebrex (Brand name) lowered their prices to compete with the other three companies producing generic Celebrex? I cant help but think they know somehow that there is something wrong with the generic and dont have to lower their prices because they know people will come back to the original.
shelley c
Atlanta, GA
I have been taking the generic Celebrex since late last year. I didn’t get the relief as I had with Celebrex. My Dr had to double the dosage a few months ago because I couldn’t function. Now, I am experiencing terrible stomach pain, along with nausea and blood in my stool. I started Prilosec OTC but at a Rx dosage, minimal relief. Awaiting my PCP to tell me what I should do next. Yikes!!! Here we go again fighting with Humana Medicare to get Celebrex covered!
John H.
Saugus Ma.
I have been in Celebrex for over 10 years. Also, was previously on Vioxx before that for years due to hip disease and Arthritis. The Generic version of Celebrex was given to me at pharmacy. I did not even realize I was taking Celecoxib until I looked at bottle. After 2 months of Celecoxib, my pain increased, joints and feet have swollen up so bad, can even walk. They say it’s same ingredients?
Any one else have this terrible problem?
Sincerely,
John H.
Jerry
Arizona
I am on Medicare and was recently switched to celecoxib, and there is a significant savings. However, the generic drug is not close to the effectiveness of Celebrex. I have osteoarthritis throughout my body with considerable pain. I plan on switching back to Celebrex and paying the higher deductible.
Bessie
N.C.
I had been on brand name Celebrex for 5 years. Results were wonderful! Because of a change in my drug plan coverage, I had no choice but to go to the generic. After about two weeks, I began noticing joint, back and leg pain like I had NEVER experienced! After a month’s use, having no idea it could possibly be “the generic.”
I replaced my one year old mattress, bought a new recliner, returned to my physical therapist, went to a podiatrist, purchased a new pillow and altered my entire life style. Following three months of Celebrex generic, made by the same company as Celebrex brand name, my PT suggested returning to brand name. I did and within 24 hours I felt like I was on the pathway to recovery!
karen
alabama
I have been taking Celebrex for a number of years. It was great. Stopped my pain in only a few days.
Last month I received generic instead. I have pain in my knees worse than I have ever had it. Took me a few days to realize it was the generic not working. I still had a few Celebrex I took them and the pain got better, ran out and went back to generic and the pain is back. Hoping my insurance company will pay for Celebrex as the generic doesn’t work. I never believed there was difference in the generics until this .
Sherry
connecticut
I have been taking Celebrex for several years and switched to the generic shortly after it became available…the pain and stiffness has been slowing increasing. I was wondering if anyone else had similar experiences?.
Carol
NY
I got stiffer and stiffer on the generic. Now, I am having severe muscle spasms which I suspect is a result of the generic as well. I am going to a rheumatologist next week, but have also been to my MD and the emergency room. The pain is awful at night; I am counting the days to get some relief.
Brenda
Evansville
The generic celecoxib is not working for me either. At least reading the posts I can see that to isn’t just me.
Carol
connecticut
I was on celebrex for my spine and knees for about a year and half and then the generic came out. I took it for 3 months but could not figure out why my legs had pain. Kept taking it and dr said I could take 2 200mg when needed and was doing 2 a day for a couple months. Helped some in joints but made my legs so I could not stand and it hurt to walk. Not knees… legs! Then the news came out 3 weeks ago about all the dangers with heart attacks and such… so I decided to stop taking for a while, see what happens and just take a couple tylenol if needed. GUESS WHAT, the leg pains have stopped! I have some pain in my spine and hips, but take a couple tylenol, and its bearable. Now I need to rebuild my leg muscles because I have not been able to stand and walk long distances with the generic. Mind you… the true real Celebrex was great… no issues with Pain in the legs and I could move about. was on the mend from my surgeries. Now I will keep trying on my own.
Wayne
Las Cruces NM
I also used Celebrex for a number of years and switched to Celecoxib for the cost savings. Very disappointing results. Pain is worse with the generic and will probably go back to Celebrex.
Daun
wisconsin
I took the generic for 2 weeks and the pain in both my knees was unbearable. I spoke to a Doctor friend of mine he told me that generic drugs are not exactly the same formulation as name brand. Today I am at Walgreens looking at 395.00 for 90 200 mg pills. generic is “free” Hahaha. Full price as of 7/28/15 786.37. No laws against it and I am on insurance from the ACA. Time to research different insurance on the ACA and weigh in on the different monthly cost versus the cost of the pills. In 2 years I will have to do the same for a Medicare sup. No one really want sot hear the cussing I am doing inside my head over this. Vote for BERNIE!
Debra
Texas
I have experienced the same pain along with swollen joints.
Loraine
Northern N.J.
I have been taking Celebrex for arthritic knee pain for a number of years and it has reduced my pain enough to be mobile and enables me to not have it always on my mind. Recently, my Dr. switched me to the generic form, and I wish I had kept a few of the original pills -now my pain is much worse and although I , too, enjoyed the lower price, I would be willing to pay more. The pharmacist insists that it the exact same thing, and if I wanted to have Celebrex, it would cost $400. instead of $40. I am going to try to get my Dr. to change to the real thing. The generic form also upset my stomach after only two doses. The generic form of Celebrex doesn’t work for me and now I am in pain all the time.
Linda
I know how you feel. I used Celebrex for years with excellent pain control. My insurance company substituted Celecoxib several months ago with horrible results for me.
Taking exactly the same dosage has resulted in ever-increasing pain until now it actually wakes me up at night, and I limp through each day. Neither EVER happened with Celebrex.
I wish that my insurance company would leave medical decisions to my doctor, and pay attention to her letters requesting Celebrex, because it works for me.
Lauren
Connecticut
I have taken NSAIDS for over 20 years for my RA. Been on them all. When a Bextra and Vioxx were removed as options I went back to Celebrex. It was and had been a life saver.
Initially I was happy a low cost alternative was going to be made available but just one day on this new knock-off and I’m suddenly reminded of the pain I was in decades ago.
Why is it that since my insurance company is so cheap I cannot get my medicine!? Again I M disappointed by this world we live in. I’m just trying to be a productive member of society. I’m going to have to go on disability if I can’t get relief.
I also think I may be allergic to something in this pill as I’m getting itchy pins and needles. Never had this with Celebrex.
Joyce
Indiana
I must put my opinion in and hopefully it will count for something. I’ve been using Celebrex for arthritis for at least 10 years, probably more. All the sudden I started aching and paining in my joints and just all over. Places I haven’t really hurt for a long time. I think…what’s different? why am I feeling like this? Now I’ve realized that with new mail order pharmacy change in January, I’ve also been receiving the generic Celecoxib since then. I take 200 mm twice a day. I’ve come to this conclusion because I’ve not been able to figure out why I’ve increasingly been in such pain. I’ve also researched on Google and find other comments. We need to let it be known that this does not work. I’m quite sure that my insurance will not approve the regular CELEBREX . I can not afford to pay the going price for Celebrex. What can we do to change this??
karen
You sound exactly like what I have experienced. Took me awhile to figure out what was going on. I hurt all over, my doctor has put me on prednison to try to control the flare up. I don’t think he believes it is the generic.
Linda
Texas
Have been on Celebrex for years with great results. Was switched to generic in January and have been having bad back problems ever since. Took me a while to to make the connection. Taking two a day now, still not as effective.
Carol
NY
Hi. I tried two a day and it did not work. My doctor advised me not to take the med if it didn’t work. He gave me mobic generic instead and that seems to be working.
Carol
Illinois
I have been on Celebrex for several years. I get reasonable relief with Celebrex in conjunction with Methotrexate. I began thinking my problems were becoming worse because I began having increased generalized pain, stiffness in back, and increasing difficulty walking. I was having such increased pain that I began taking 2 capsules of what I thought was Celebrex. I receive it by mail order and have signed up for automatic online payments so I don’t look closely at enclosed paperwork. I was not aware that the pharmacy had switched me to the generic, celecoxib.
Leona
British Columbia
I was also switched to the generic brand of Celebrex. Within a short period of time I was in a lot of pain and it kept getting worse. My specialist has since ordered that I stay on Celebrex with no substitutions, but my plan won’t cover it. My bill went from $18/math to $80/math for the the Celebrex, but I am too young not to enjoy my quality of life while I’m on Celebrex. Wish the insurance companies would quit trying to bankrupt us for trying to stay healthy.
JR
My wife had two consecutive spine surgeries and the residual inflammation from scar tissue and nerve pain made life miserable to say the least. Honestly, Celebrex is the only drug that has made a significant difference in reducing these pain issues and enhancing her ability to be active and have a decent quality of life. She has been taking it consistently since 2010.
Several months ago, I refilled my wife’s Celebrex prescription and after a couple of days of taking it she began to experience an acute increase in pain as well as nausea and exhaustion. She said it felt like every joint in her body was inflamed and swollen. Her initial thought was that she got a bad batch of Celebrex. As with so many other testimonials in this thread, we had been given the generic form of the Celebrex brand without being told by the pharmacy. When I went to exchange the generic for Celebrex, our pharmacist insisted it was not possible that my wife should feel any differently taking the generic form. She said, it was made by the same people who make Celebrex and that it has identical ingredients.
Luckily we were able to get the Celebrex filled for a while and the pain my wife experienced with the generic eventually subsided and she was able to get back to normal. This past week my insurance company denied us to have the Celebrex refilled and will only authorize the generic. The pharmacy is charging almost 300.00 for 30 200 mg pills since it is now not covered by our insurance. We have been buying a few pills at a time hoping for our doctor to advocate for us to get the Celebrex brand refill authorized. If the generic brand was exactly the same drug and experience we would be happy about it since it would be cheaper. But living in pain while taking a generic that gives her a stomachache, is ineffective, and actually causes more inflammation is totally unacceptable.
Giovanna
Canada
I have used Celebrex for many years with a reasonable pain relief for 0steo-arthritis. When I was switched to generic celecoxib I find no relief at all. I am now using percocet until my next visit with my Rheumatologist, thankfully only 1 more moth to go.. Very disappointed in the generic brand.
C
Pearland, Texas
I was given generic Celebrex (Celecoxib) and after taking it for just a few days, I had a tightness in my chest, a headache and dizziness. I reported this to my pharmacist, and she substituded the real Celebrex for the generic. I will not take the generic for Celebrex again.
Brenda
WV
I have used Celebrex for approximately 10 years to successfully control arthritis pain and mobility. My insurance coverage required that Celecoxib replace Celebrex; however they are not covering the cost. I recently received a letter from my insurance that I have to participate in their “Step Therapy” of “front-line”, less expensive alternatives such as ibuprofen or meloxicam which I had previously used before being prescribed Celebrex.
If the “front-line” medication proves not to be effective in my treatment, my physician has to get prior authorization before I can go back on Celebrex and have it covered by my prescription plan but I may have a higher copayment. Whatever the cost, I want Celebrex back! Celecoxib is not effective for me. I have been miserable since I stated taking it two months ago. I did not realize that I was taking the generic because the capsule is so very similar to Celebrex and also its name.
After about a week I began to notice the soreness, stiffness, aches and pains which have affected my quality of life. I began to wonder why I was experiencing these symptoms. It was a few weeks before I happened to notice the name difference on my pill bottle. My knees, feet, hands, and spine keep me in constant discomfort. Difficult to walk, go up or down stairs without a “death grip” on the railing, use fingers, or sleep. I am now taking over-the-counter pain medication to supplement the Celecoxib. It basically comes down to $ savings for my insurance provider (my husband’s employer) not my health.
Carol
Virginia
I have been taking Celebrex for several years for back, hip and leg pain. My pain is due to severely stressed joints caused by living with Multiple Sclerosis for over 30 years. Celebrex has always given me great relief from my inflammation and pain and allowed me to continue functioning.
Then in March, I received the generic for Celebrex — and began experiencing increasing pain, which made it very difficult for me to walk and just carry on a normal life. I was getting very discouraged and depressed, as I thought this might just be a result of my MS worsening.
After reading about problems with generic Celebrex, I was able to “borrow” a few brand-name Celebrex from a friend. The first day I took one, pain was 90% gone. By day 3, I was pain-free — and this is after 3 months of debilitating pain with the generic! What a waste!!! This generic is useless!! I can’t really afford the copay on Celebrex, but I will have to figure out a way if I want to lead a life worth living!!
mmk
A light went on when I read this item. I started receiving the generic from my hateful mail-order pharmacy at the start of this year after having stabilized my condition on Celebrex (which I started taking after developing an ulcer while on Indomethacin). I had been experiencing more and more pain and stiffness in new joints throughout this year, as well as GI symptoms, all of which have coincided with the change to the generic. Very frustrating, as I feel that my condition has intensified so quickly in only 6 months.
Donald
Florida
On celebrex last 5 years with generally good relief. Switched to generic…poor relief.
I’m a critical care RN > 20 yrs, always thought that generics were equivalent. Well, they aren’t. Doubled the dose and still doesn’t work as well. Relieved to hear others are reporting this too.
Paula T.
Tampa, Florida
I have been on Celebrex for a couple of years for osteoarthritis and it has worked very well. When the generic came out I was automatically switched because of my insurance rules. Very shortly I started experiencing severe pain. After about a month I went back to my Doctor and asked if switching could make the difference. Without hesitation he said YES! I asked 2 other of my Doctors and they said the same thing. The price difference was so huge that I struggled on for another month or so but I have now gone back to the name brand.
My pharmacist was kind enough to tell me about about a coupon put out by Celebrex that saved me $125.00 a month. I have to pay $63.00 for 30 pills instead of $188.00 per month. So check it out… maybe it can help you. So glad I found this site!
Carol
NY
Thank you so much for posting about the savings card. I printed it out and am going to my doctor in a few days. I am in such pain right now no matter what I do. I am hoping that if I go back on regular celebrex and do the things I usually do to help my back, like exercise, I will be able to function again.
Kiko
New Mexico
My pharmacy switched Brand Celebrex to Celecoxib (Generic for Celebrex) in January this year. I was not aware of the change because the capsule looked exactly the same. In less than a month, all of my body pain came back and felt helpless.
When I realized my medication label showed Celecoxib (Generic for Celebrex) with Mfg: MYLAN with its capsule exactly the same as that of Celebrex, two yellow strips with “7767” on the top, I was very perplexed. How could the generic for Celebrex has exactly the same capsule for the brand medication?! Would its ingredients be the same as those in the brand? I hope some one could explain how that could be possible. I am back to the brand Celebrex and have been paying higher price.
Bill
Canada
I have managed my joint pain with Celebrex for many years successfully. At the last refill I got the generic brand and have been in pain since. Now I take 2 a day with less relief than 1 Celebrex. I had some Celebrex left over at my country place and noticed improved pain relief within a day of taking it.
Shirley
california
I had been on Celebrex for several years and the pain was under control. I had few pains here and there. Since then, I have gone off Celebrex for awhile, due to a blood test that the doctor said some count was elevated (something to do with my liver I think). After another blood test he let me start back on, and that’s when it was changed to the generic. It was so much less expensive I was happy about that. But now I have been on it for almost two months and I’m getting worse by the day. I can hardly get around to do my regular house chores, which I was having no problem with before. I have an appointment to see my doctor to figure out what to do. I’m so disappointed, I thought I would be feeling all better by now.
Ann
I started taking Celebrex when Vioxx was taken off the market. I was switched to generic when it came out. I have since developed IBS symptoms. Guess it is time to fight the fight again. I want the Celebrex back at least long enough to prove that is what it is. Then we can discuss it again.
Carol
NY
After 2 or 3 weeks on the generic, any part of my body that has arthritis starting hurting, especially my back. One day, I had to leave work because I was in extreme pain. I finally figured out what the problem was and called my doctor. After three doses of generic mobic, my pain is starting to go away. I was so glad to read the comments here. Thank you to everyone who posted.
Kathryn
United States
I have been taking Celebrex for a number of years with great results in treating my osteoarthritis. Recently, my prescription renewal came to me in generic (celecoxib) form. I am in a lot of pain and can only attribute it to this new medication. I am going to have to ask my doctor to prescribe the name brand at considerable cost to me. I am not happy about this, but I cannot endure the pain.
Carolyn
Maryland
My insurance substituted celecoxib for Celebrex 3 weeks ago, it helped with the pain but my feet and eyes were swelling really bad. I’ve been off of the celecoxib for almost a week and my feet and eyes have stopped swelling. Never had any problems with celebrex.
Helen
NC
I’ve been on generic for 2 months and also feel that it is not effective.
Megan
BC, Canada
I had a trial of Celebrex, and it worked well. Then tried generic celecoxib and I’m not sure it worked at all. Thank you all for posting your experiences – I was thinking I was crazy. Sure wish the govt plan paid for the brand name Celebrex. :(
ronnie
pa
I was on celebres for over 16 years and never had any problems or pain for arthritis but my insurance made me change to generic it is unbearable for me. I need to contact my insurance company and doctor for them to give me the regular celebres or I will be committing hairy fairy or what ever I am in pain.
Marie
I have been using Celebrex for osteoarthritis & it worked well for me for many years. The pharmacy substituted a generic SDZ-CELECOXIB & after only 4 days I am in a lot of pain,
especially in my spine. I will be happy to pay for the real thing.
Barb
Canada
My husband had also been on Celebrex for 20 years and when the pharmacy made the switch to generic I did not realize at first. My husbands hand swelled so much a couple of his fingers tripled in size we took pictures he also had a lot of problems with knee joint pain flaring up and abdominal discomfort when I realized he was on the generic he went to the doctors he wrote a new prescription saying no substitutions and wrote a letter to our insurance company saying my husband was allergic to something in the generic so now the insurance will pay for our prescription
Morris
United States
I was amazed to find this site yesterday, and the stories about Celecoxib. I was just trying to see if anyone else was having problems after being changed from Celebrex to Celecoxib. I came back today to investigate ways of trying to get answers as to how such an ineffective drug can be legally substituted.
I guess I should not have been surprised when I found how incompetent the FDA is in regards to generic drugs. This is just one more agency of the federal government functioning at about a 5% of what it should be. I just read in the paper this week how the TSA only found 5% of the contraband run through lines at the airports across the nation by agents to test their effeciency. No one at the FDA is going to lose their jobs over this, nor anyone at the TSA. Anything over mediocrity in America today is frowned upon. This country should be searching for an Alzheimers cure with billions being used for this goal. Instead, we have an FDA that can’t regulate and test generic drugs to conform to the original recipe. I don’t guess the people that work for the FDA know that they are future patients, that they will be getting prescriptions for these drugs that don’t work in the near future.
Morris
United States
I have taken Celebrex for nearly 20 years to help manage joint pain. When Celocoxib became available my insurance company switched me over. It does not work for me, not sure why, but I went back to feeling much more joint pain. I now have to spend $110. for a 90 day supply of Celebrex out of pocket. My insurance will provide the Celecoxib for $30. for 90 day supply, but it is totally ineffective for me.
Greg
Ottawa ON
This is my first month on the generic celecoxib and I’m really suffering badly. The generic form does not measure up at all to Celebrex. I’m switching back now.
This generic sucks!
Doris
The drug store also changed from Celebrex to celecoxib which I am not satisfied
Doris
Montreal, Quebec, canada
I also have been changed from Celebrex to celecoxib which does not take away my pain.
Jean
British Columbia
My doctor gave me a sample pack of Celebrex (9 pills) to treat my chronic arthritis, I felt better in two days. My pharmacy filled my prescription with the generic Celecoxib. I’ve only been on it for 10 days but all my aches and pains have returned. I plan to visit my pharmacist tomorrow to see if he can refill the prescription using Celebrex. If the cheaper brand doesn’t work, it’s like throwing good money after bad… what’s the point?
Patricia
United States
I am very unhappy with the generic Celebrex. The pharmacist insists that it is identical to the brand Celebrex, made and sold by the same company. It does not give me any relief. It is as if I have taken nothing for relief.
Ann
Indianapolis
It is not the same company. It is made by TEVA, an Israeli company operating out of Pennsylvania
Joan
CT
Generic is NOT as effective as brand?
Gwen
Arizona
I was switched to generic when I went on Medicare in March. It was fine while I took a yellow and white pill that looked like the original. But this month I was switched to a blue capsule. I just realized the pain I’m experiencing is linked to this pill. I have knee, back, neck and hand pain. I’m also experiencing neuropathy type pain in my ears. I’m going to trace where these blue pills come from and get back to my supplemental insurance company.
CALAYA
99707
Please add my name to your list of people who are complaining about the generic for celebrix. can my dr write someone? is there Anything I can do? The generic doesn’t work!
Brenda
Cincinnati
I have been unable to take the generic form of Celebrex or Meloxicam.
I am willing to go back to Celebrex and pay the high cost- IT WORKS BEST for me. Meloxicam caused severe stomach cramping and Celecoxib has caused bowel issues.
I have been miserable for the past two months. To the point where I stopped taking anything and that resulted in swelling/fluid on my knee osteoarthritis which resulted in getting a steroidal injection.
Delisa
NC
I was very disappointed with the generic brand! I called my doctor and asked if he could please call the brand name CELEBREX!!! The generic made me feel so bad! I never won’t them again!
DTW.
Wayne
Ohio
I had same problem with generic & went back to Celebrex. My question in how can you visually tell the difference between generic and real thing? Both look the same to me.
Leeann
Lake Forest IL
I find Celecoxib which is the generic for Celebrex to be less effective on my arthritis pain. My pharmacy switched me over about three months ago and I have been feeling the difference ever since, its like I have forgotten to take my medicine. I will gladly pay more money to feel less pain.
Ramesh
Houston
Generic celecoxib does not work like original celebrex does. Please stop making generic it is wasting of money.
KAREN
NC
I started taking the generic Celebrex and have noticed all of your symptoms plus diarrhea.
Sue H.
Missouri
I used Celebrex with excellent results and was switched to the generic when it became available. I noticed increased pain almost immediately. After much effort, I was able to get my insurance company to allow me to get the brand name back (at a much higher deductible, but worth it to stop the pain). I usually don’t have a problem with generics, but in this instance Teva’s celecoxib did not work for me.
Marie
Virginia
I also started wondering why my hands, feet, knees and back we’re hurting so bad, when I remembered my insurance would no longer pay for the brand name of Celebrex. I had taken Viox for years till it was removed from the market. Than switched to Celebrex, with good results. My out of pocket cost would be $450 per month, I am considering paying just to have some relief from the pain.
myst
wisconsin
I have been on this med for several months and can say for a fact it does nothing at all to relieve pain….. I thought I would have to take it for so long to feel some results I feel as though I am taking a Placebo pill..
SunnySasha
Farmington, MO
Pharmacist suggested I try the generic brand Celecoxib instead of my regular Celebrex – the cost is great, but if I take the generic in the a.m. (200 mg.) by evening I have to take 2 Alleve’s or 2 Advil’s because of the pain and, of course, I wake up with pain.
This defeats the taking of the Celecoxib, so I guess I will have to pay full price for a 90-day supply (my insurance company will only co-pay for the generic brand) and give up something else in my budget. I cannot understand why the generic brand would not do exactly what the name brand does. Does anyone have an answer for that?
Nancy L
Chandler, az
I have taken the generic Celebrex since the 1st of the year, & have had no pain relief in my arthritic knee. I switched from Celebrex to the generic because the generic was cheaper. Since it is not helping in relieving the inflamation, I plan to go back to taking the regular Celebrex.
Nancy
NJ
I am so glad to read these comments. I also was switched about a month ago to the generic for Celebrex and now have the pain that I had before I started taking the Celebrex. Celebrex had really helped the pain in my arthritic ankles, and now it hurts to walk. I don’t care if I have to pay a higher copay, I am going back to Celebrex. The pain is not worth the savings. Thanks for all your posts.
jackie
Alabama
The worst pain EVER since they switched me to generic Celebrex two months ago. I am now walking like I am 80, hurts to sit down, hurts to stand up, feels like cancer must feel with no pain meds! My temper has grown so short with everyone due to the fact that I am hurting and no one understands because they know I am taking meds for the pain! This “capsule” whatever the hell it is, is NOTHING to compare with genuine Celebrex. As a consumer I am going back to my pharmacy and my BCBS and am going to demand some sort of satisfaction. I do not intend to hurt like this when I don’t have to!!! That’s why we pay our insurance premiums and that’s why we pay doctors huge amounts to help the pain go away. Take this “crap” and toss it out. Demand real and genuine Celebrex for your pain. It just gets worse every day that you take this junk. Trust me.
Noreen
NJ
I have been taking Celebrex for years for Rheumatoid Arthritis and swear by it. 3 weeks ago I started the generic and my pain has been unreal! This is the only change in my meds and I honestly feel this is the difference. I just find it hard to believe a generic would prove so much less effective than the real thing but I really think this is the issue. I am now taking way more painkillers which I hate to do. I want my Celebrex back!
Diana
Oregon
I was wondering several things about my knee joint pain. Several months ago my Celebrex co pay went down considerably. I, too, was pleased with the savings. But I noticed my pain was increasing and other remedies not as effective as before. I, looked at my perscription on the bottle and I, too, recieved a generic instead of Celebrex. I believe for me, the generic is not as effective.
Doris
Rockville, MD
I had been taking Celebrex for three years with very little pain in my back and knees. I was switched to the generic about 4 weeks ago. I am now experiencing major pain in my knees and back. This is disturbing because Celebrex is the only medication that has given me relief. Since it is a brand name drug and has a generic, my insurance company will only let me have Celebrex at a cost of $180.00 per month versus $15.00 for a 90 day supply. It does not seem fair that I am penalized because the generic does not work.
CinB
75077
My insurance company switched me from Celebrex to Celecoxib . I started to notice that I was having pain in my joints, (ankle, wrist, elbow and knees) and also in my lower back. At first I attributed it to the weather but then it hit me that the change in medicine was the only factor that made any sense. It is enough of a difference that I am willing to pay for the cost of Celebrex, which as everyone knows, is expensive. Generics are NOT the same as brand name products, some are very good, but Celecoxib is not one of them!
Teresa DePaula
Texas
I have been taking Celebrex for over 12 years. For about the first 8 yrs, I took most every day and had relief from knee arthritis and I was still even running. Now no longer running, yet active, elliptical, bike & golf. I try to only take Celebrex as needed. I have had the PRP done 2x in my knee & was Celebrex free for 4 months in 2014. Back in March, I got my refill & thought it sure was cheap. Past 3 weeks, I’ve notice that I am very fatigue when trying to work out and since last wk my knee is hurting worse . I look at bottle it has CELECOXIB, I ask pharmacy about it- said generic, I have already contacted my doc who contacted pharmacy to fill with CELEBREX.
I am 54 & fairly fit. 5’7 128lbs. There is a difference in Generic Vs Brand name Celebrex.
I actually had an issue trying generic Wellbutrin, after I had been on brand name for 3yrs. Aetna Insurance. Generic Wellbutrin made me sleepless, suicidal & edgy.
There are some pain generic drugs that I have used and I know THEY do NOT work same as brand name, as usually I have to double up on dose to get same relief and make me sick to my stomach. I think generic Tylenol 3 even gave me headaches.
Joann
Florida
In March I commented that 5 days after being on generic Celebrex I developed for the first time painful, swollen finger and wrists. Since my first comment, I have been diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis. Many painful flare-ups, now also, at times in both shoulders. Have been on Methotrexate for 5 weeks as well as several prednisone treatments when pain is unbearable.
The triggers for RA aren’t known, but I can’t help equating it with the generic Celebrex.
Terrie
Arizona
Yes I too was wondering if others are seeing the difference with generic Celebrex. I have only been on the generic for 6-8 weeks and I have been experiencing more joint pain than before. On a scale of 0-10 my pain was 0-1 before and now I would say it is at least 4-5.
Pete
Maine
I was on Celebrex for a long time, until recently when my insurance company Aetna dictated that this be switched to the Celecoxib generic substitute. I’ve since been going through daily hand, elbow and/or shoulder pain, but especially lower back stiffness and pain that takes hours each morning to ease up to a degree. I didn’t think about it at first and figured I was just going through a bad spell, but then it occurred to me that it may be that the generic is less effective?
I remembered today to google this question, and here you all are experiencing the same or similar. Having previously gone through a generic vs. non-generic Rx episode with the insurance company, I already know it’s going to be major hassle attempting to get Celebrex re-prescribed, but if this limiting pain and stiffness continues I’ll have no choice but to try. Thanks for reading and best of health to all!
Jill
usa
I’m glad to read that others are having the same problems with generic Celebrex. Can we all notify
The FDA ?
Maureeen
United States
Celecoxib very disappointing. Very diminished relief of generalized arthritis pain. Pharmacy charges same copay as name brand but less to Medicare. It will delay my coverage gap but I am paying the price in pain.
Joal
Wisconsin
I thought it was the weather—Lake Mich cold winds etc–but nooooo–it was the generic Celebrex. Thank heavens I found this blog. I called OptumRx and requested the original Celebrex and nothing less. My pain has been very difficult at night and swimming–which I do for arthritis. I have 1 or 2 real Celebrex left and will take it right away.
Thank you for this service.
Terry
Canada
After being on celebrex for about 6 years my medical plan changed and will only cover generic. First thing I noticed was that the pills were half the size. I would say that the affect of the generic is 50% . My joints have stiffened and the pain in my hips has returned. It is worsening every day
dan
alabama
My pain from arthritis is worse since I’ve had to use the generic.
Mary S.
Boston, MA
Having been through my own difficulties with generic medication, I have noticed that most or all the comments do not address the manufacturers of these generic drugs. I was on a name brand medication when it went generic. I got so sick I ended up in the emergency room and that is when I found out from my doctor’s office that if you can find the generic manufacturer who made the name brand, you end up being in good shape. My doctor told me who made the generic for this name brand medication and I was no longer sick. Found out also that the fillers that are put in generic medication can make you very sick. This I was told by a endocrinologist. This is another reason why some generic medications do not work as well as name brands and the pharmacists try to tell us to believe that there is not difference.
louise
Saskatchewan, Canada
This forum is a life saver!! I have been in anguish and despair over the worsening of my chronic back pain and feeling very dark, popping generic pills every 3 hours instead of every 7 or 8 with Celebrex.
This has given me HOPE which is often all that we have as pain sufferers so thank you to all who shared their opinions. I’ll be going to the pharmacy ASAP, and hopefully with a spring in my step!!
Mary
Tennessee
Just had my family doctor rewrite my prescription for name brand Celebrex. I just ran out of the name brand about a month ago, and have had steadily increasing pain and stiffness in my neck, back, and knees. I also experienced ankle pain which I have never had before.
Not only did the Celebrex help my arthritis, but I also have interstitial cystitis, and I believe it helped keep the inflammation from that in check. Since I went generic, I have had the first flare-up in a while, and have to get a treatment for that.
I remember some years back that a group had some generic drugs tested against name brand and actually found the generics not as effective, particularly with drugs taken once daily.
MLW
Canada
I have been on Celebrex for years and only 2 days ago, started on the generic. I have not had any problems with generic medications in the past, so was not concerned. Yesterday was the most painful day I have ever experienced and today I went looking to see if others had the same problems. I found all of you. I will try a few more days and if the experience is the same, I will be back to the Dr. I had no idea that I would be in so much discomfort, the Celebrex worked so well.
Good luck to you all.
John
Longmont, CO
I too have the same experience as most of the people who have commented. I was switched by the Walmart Pharmacy bc it’s their policy to do so. The generic was manufactured by Actavis. That’s what the ACT stands for on the label:
CELECOXIB 200MG CAP ACT
Generic for >CELEBREX
In the last 25 days I found myself questioning if I was remembering to take it! My hands were so swollen and sore, my shoulders, hips and back were also aching. That’s when I noticed that they had substituted the generic. I feel like I lost one month of my life bc I was sitting in the recliner, not wanting to move.
I think it also caused me to have a dry sort of moderately swollen, sore throat and sore, swollen nasal passages. Another odd thing is after taking it a while, my legs began to itch, front and back, between my knees and ankles. I’m talking claw the skin off itching with no visible rash and body lotion provides no relief.
My AARP Secure Horizons plan (United Healthcare) put Celebrex and its generic in a tier 4 deductible too, so ‘m paying $100 per month for something that does not work and the overall cost to the insurance company is only $50 cheaper than the name brand. So you hit the donut hole just as fast.
If Ibuprofen was as effective, I’d take handfuls of it (like when I couldn’t afford Celebrex and was above the poverty level) but that really twists up your stomach. fun fun fun
Linda
Cash, Texas
I, too, have been taken off of Celebrex and put on the generic. I stopped taking it last night because it does not work at all. My hands and fingers are so swollen just like before I started taking Celebrex. I am taking Aleve today and it is working a lot better than the generic Celebrex! Not happy!
Susan
Baton Rouge, La.
Many thanks to everyone who commented! I was hesitant to call my doctor after receiving the celecoxib. The Celebrex worked very well; but the generic does not. I’m calling tomorrow.
Karrie Holovacs
Hingham, MA
I found this forum while looking to see if anyone else is experiencing increased pain with the generic Celebrex. I have been taking Celebrex for several years and call it my “miracle” drug because my pain is very well controlled with a very low dose. In March my pharmacy recommended I save some money by switching to the generic form. I have been in so much pain lately and I couldn’t figure out why I was so much worse. I even doubled my dosage (with my docs permission) and that has not helped. I think it is the Celecoxib. Going to switch back even though it is much more expensive.
Denise
Stone Mountain, Ga
Been on Celebrex for nearly 20 years, my pharmacy switched me to generic Celecoxib without my knowledge for insurance reasons. I was in increased pain which I thought was due to weather changes, itching feet and hands and red rash on my arms. I thought I was allergic to my husband having just got married and trying to figure what I was doing differently! At any rate I had to get a letter from my doctor stating I was allergic to Celecoxib in order for my insurance company to pay for Celebrex. Celecoxib is not the same and way less effective than Celebrex. I am back to being pain free.
Don
Florida
I have been on Celebrex for 2 years, for arthritis and general joint pain. Upon renewal of my 90-day prescription in February, I received the generic celecoxib from Mylan. I have since noticed the return of significant joint pain in the hands, neck, shoulders and back, especially in the mornings. Like everyone else, I am going to pursue getting Celebrex, even if I have to pay more. Is it true that the generics use less of the main ingredient? That sounds like fraud!
Cathy
California
I am always delighted to be able to obtain a generic equivalent of a name brand drug. I am on my first prescription of generic Celebrex and I am sorely disappointed, pun intended. I rarely have a problem with any prescribed drug, but this one is definitely not as effective as the name brand.
SHEREE
Buffalo,NY
I’ve taken Celebrex for many years for arthritis of my back and knees. Insurance just switched me to the generic. I’ve never had a problem with a generic drugs before but I’ve taken Celecoxib for 3 days, each day the pain has gotten worse. Now I have to add 2 extra strength Tylenol every 4-6 hours today for relief! I’m very unhappy. Celecoxib does not seem to work for me!! I will speak to my Dr. about getting my Celebrex back, wish me luck
Joan
I have been on Celebrex for 3 years & have been able to function with a hip that is bone on bone & bad arthritis in one knee. With regular deep tissue massage (at my own cost) and Celebrex, I have minimal pain & can do most physical activity with little pain (no running or jumping due to the hip situation). I am in my early 50’s and my next option are replacement surgeries – of which I want to postpone as long as possible. My insurance co. has switched me to the generic even though my doc insisted on namebrand. With discounts, insurance, etc., they are charging $180 per month. I can’t handle that price but am not sure what to do as I can’t handle the pain either. Has anyone found any compelling reasons to convince insurance companies to pay for the name brand Celebrex?!? Thanks!!
D
Connecticut
I too have had the same issue with the generic celebrex. My mail order pharmacy obtained a generic prescription and sent it to me.
After two days I had noticed increased pain and numbness in my leg and foot. I contacted the pharmacy and told them it was not working for me at all. I was also getting a headache daily. They mailed out the brand name after much discussion and charged me 211.00 for the three months copayment. When I saw my doctor I told him what was going on and he wrote me a new prescription with Dispense As Written on it. They filled it with brand name and then charged me 97.00 for the three months. That I can live with and they can feel free to keep the generic seeing it took me almost a month to get back to where I was before trying it.
Good Luck!
Glenda
Georgia
I was recently diagnosed with early RA, and prescribed Celebrex in November of last year. It was a wonderful drug and relieved my pain and stiffness in my feet tremendously! My refill in February, I was given the generic, and I have had a horrible experience with the generic Celecoxib 200 made by Mylan! the pain and stiffness in my feet are worse now than before ever taking the original brand formula! Generic does not work, and now my insurance company wants me to pay $300 to use brand. I might as well take ibuprofen again, it worked better than the generic!
Alice
Florida
I have completed three trials with the generic duloxetine HCL 30 mg, each from different U.S. manufacturers of the medication, and all failed to relieve my pain symptoms. However, each time I returned to brand name Cymbalta between trials, the sharp pain and neck stiffness was controlled within days. I then tried an increase in the dosage to 40 mg and found no difference. I was able to find some relief when I doubled my dose to 60 mg, but the side effects of the medication were too much of a concern. Whatever the variances allowed in production of these generics, it seems to be preventing the active ingredient from providing pain relief in my case.
My insurance won’t cover Cymbalta brand name and have denied my official appeal because: “The generic products are A-rated by the FDA for bioequivalence and therapeutic equivalence to the brand name product. An A-rated product will produce comparable absorption and blood levels to the brand name product and would not be expected result in an increase incidence of adverse effects or sub-therapeutic effect compared to the brand product…”
A one month prescription of brand name Cymbalta costs about $250, so I am now doing a trial using the brand and generic on alternate days to reduce my overall cost. I would be most interested in any research on this medication that might overturn the FDA ruling.
Joann
Florida
I’d been on Celebrex for years. 5 days after starting the generic I had painful, swollen hands and wrists. Back on the regular Celebrex for 2 weeks, but still not the same relief. Condition relieved by prednisone treatment, but then back again afterward. With pharmacist, I compared the pills and containers on their shelf. Numbers on identical looking pills were the same. All made in Singapore. Don’t have any answers.
Rich
Chicago, Il.
I have also found the generic Celecoxib to be ineffective. I tried it for 2 weeks and experienced increased stiffness and pain and increasing gastric upset. I went back to Celebrex and within a day or two my pain level was tolerable, and no gastritis.
Katlyn Webber
United States
I have been on Celebrex since I was 16, and am 21 now. Last week, insurance switched to generic Celebrex. I didn’t think much of it; it is by the same people afterall, but I have been in increasingly terrible pain. It is unlike what I feel due to other factors, like weather. The only change that went with the onset of this is that change. I’ve been out of work now since last Friday. It’s like I’m not taking anything for it, and I’m falling apart!!
Donna
Switched to generic “Celebrex” ten days ago and the pain is excruciating! Not just spine but every bone and joint from head to toe. It started on day three and has gotten worse each day (and night). Generic is not the same !!!
Lynn
New Jersey
I’m on my first fill of the generic for Celebrex. I had been doing great with my back pain gone and my shoulder pain only acting up if I over used it. Since I switched, I’m having stiffness in my back and some pain has returned. The pain is fairly mild and occurs on and off, but it has returned and combined with the stiffness it is having an impact on my activity level and mood.
b
Nebraska
Celecoxib is not nearly as effective as Celebrex. I clearly noticed it a couple of days after starting the generic. It took me a bit to figure out why my pain returned. Celecoxib DOES NOT WORK!! And I am not the only one who has noticed the abrupt halt in relief after switching to the generic. What gives??
Jack G
Florida
My Dr switched me to Celebrex when Vioxx went off the market years ago. I have been relatively pain free since. Recently I noticed that for the last 2 weeks I have had unusual pain throughout the day. I checked my bottle of Celebrex and discovered the generic formula Celecoxib was substituted by my pharmacy. I’m planning to visit my Dr and request the brand-name drug instead since I ache in places I hadn’t experienced before the change.
Heather
Australia
I don’t take any generics only the brand name for around $3 – 5 extra.
From research have found that many generics have less than 50% of main ingredient, cheaper fillers (hence cheaper price).
Might be OK for those that start on the generic but if it stops or does not work do try the brand name and notice the difference.
Generics have a hit of the main ingredient for first few hours then go downhill as they are NOT sustained (long) release like brand names
Jimmy
Harrisonburg,VA
I was switched to generic Celebrex 3 days ago (Celecoxib) also. I have not noticed any change to pain relief. I had only been on Celebrex for 90 days and must also state that I didn’t notice much pain relief before the change.
Brenda
UK
Have you tried Rosehip supplements. I found that the pain from arthritis significantly reduced after using the Rosehip supplements for about a month to six weeks. They are not expensive either and not drugs!!!
Beverly M
North Carolina
I have been taking NSAIDs for at least 20 years and have taken Celebrex since they took Vioxx off the market. I have been on the generic celecoxib for about 3 weeks. When I read the letter from another Celebrex user in today’s paper, I realized that I have been hurting more in the last three weeks than in years, and I’m hurting in places that have not bothered me before. I’ve blamed it on the weather….rain, cold, snow, ice….but that’s never bothered me this much before, so it has to be the generic. This is very discouraging!
Joyce
USA
I have been very pleased with the results of the generic drug for Celebrex.
Freddie
Dayton, Texas
I, too , had the same experience as some of the writers over using Celecoxib, the generic brand for Celebrex. After taking Celebrex for a few years, the pharmacy switched my prescription to the generic. I liked the $5 cost over the brand cost of $20. However, it only took a few days before I realized that I had begun to hurt in my hands and other joints. My doctor switched me back to Celebrex and the pain was soon gone. I normally have not had any problems taking the generic brands, but I sure did with Celecoxib.
Ellen B.
Cincinnati, OH
I have been on Celebrex for years; my insurance company insisted that I try 5 other, less expensive drugs before they would approve the Celebrex and all were ineffective for me and/or delivered bad side effects. Celebrex worked wonderfully. Then I started noticing very bad joint pain, although I was still on what I thought was Celebrex; the pills looked the same and it had not occurred to me, since neither my doctor nor the pharmacist said anything to me, that anything had changed – I looked at the bottle closer and saw that it was the generic version of Celecoxib. I’m going to call my doctor and I am going to stop taking this useless stuff. If I cannot be put back on Celebrex and have to put up with excruciating pain, I do not want to keep taking and paying for some chemical that has no benefit to me.