Expert: Karen Brawner - 10/2/2004

Question
I have been reading and hearing that Ibuprofen is actually as effective as Celebrex at treating disease.  I am a senior citizen so this would mean quite a financial saving to me.  My question is if I take 200 mg of Celebrex a day, how many mg of Ibuprofen would offer similar relief?

Thanks  

Answer
Dear Martha,   Ibuprofen is an anti-inflammatory drug just like Celebrex, BUT, ibuprofen can cause more damage to the stomach and intestines....  This is why Celebrex is prescribed...

Here is a web site that will explain why your doctor has ordered Celebrex for you and NOT Ibuprofen.....

www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=8294

I hope this helps and talk to your doctor about your money situation and maybe he/she can get you on the Pfizer free prescription drugs....  Here is the web site that tell how to do it, what the qualifications are etc...

www.needymeds.com/programs/pfizer.htm

Thank you,   karen