Artibrex

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Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 10/01/2026

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Artibrex

Property Description
Active Ingredient Celecoxib
Form Capsule (Oral)
Pharmacological Class Selective Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) Inhibitor
General Purpose Anti-inflammatory, Analgesic (Pain Relief)
Origin Synthetic

What Type of Medicine is Artibrex?

Artibrex is a synthetic pharmaceutical preparation containing the sole active ingredient Celecoxib, which is administered orally, typically in a capsule form. It is categorized as a Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug (NSAID), but its defining feature is its more precise classification as a Selective Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) Inhibitor, a subclass often termed a coxib. This selective action is integral to its function.

The active ingredient works by decreasing substances in the body that cause pain and inflammation. This underscores the medicine's fundamental ability to interfere with the chemical drivers of discomfort. Its selective design represents a key distinction in the pharmacological landscape of anti-inflammatory agents.


General Purpose: Reducing Inflammation and Pain

The core purpose of Artibrex is to manage symptoms resulting from inflammation by providing analgesic (pain-relieving), anti-inflammatory (swelling-reducing), and antipyretic (fever-reducing) effects. Its selective mechanism works by halting the production of pro-inflammatory chemicals known as prostaglandins. This targeted effect gives Artibrex its utility in addressing systemic inflammation, such as that experienced in chronic musculoskeletal conditions.

Celecoxib is used for providing pain relief in adults. This supports the use of the medicine as a foundation for managing pain associated with inflammatory conditions.

What side effects are possible with Artibrex?

Artibrex: Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

Serious and Clinically Significant Adverse Reactions

Regulatory agencies have issued warnings regarding the potential for serious cardiovascular (CV) thrombotic events, including myocardial infarction (MI) and stroke, which can be fatal. This risk may increase with the duration of use. Artibrex is contraindicated for treating peri-operative pain in the setting of Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) surgery.

The drug also carries a risk for serious gastrointestinal (GI) adverse events, such as bleeding, ulceration, and perforation of the stomach or intestines, which can be fatal. These events may occur without warning. Serious, potentially fatal, skin reactions like Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN) have also been reported.

Common Adverse Reactions

The most commonly reported adverse reactions in clinical trials (occurring in more than 2% of patients and exceeding placebo) primarily involve the gastrointestinal and respiratory systems. These include abdominal pain, diarrhea, dyspepsia, flatulence, peripheral edema, sore throat, rhinitis, sinusitis, and upper respiratory tract infection.

Contraindications and Safety Considerations

Artibrex is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to the drug substance, any component of the drug product, or to sulfonamides. It should also not be used by patients with a history of asthma, hives, or other allergic-type reactions following the use of aspirin or other NSAIDs.

Use in pregnant women starting at 30 weeks of gestation should be avoided due to the risk of premature closure of the fetal ductus arteriosus. Caution is advised in patients with pre-existing heart failure, hypertension, or renal/hepatic impairment, as the drug can cause fluid retention, edema, and new-onset or worsening hypertension. Renal function and blood pressure should be monitored during treatment, especially in high-risk patients.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Artibrex Overdose and when to seek help

Feature Official Regulatory Statements
Documented overdose presentations: Symptoms may include somnolence (drowsiness), lethargy (lack of energy), nausea, vomiting, and epigastric pain (stomach pain).
Physiological systems affected: Potential for toxicity affecting the renal, hepatic, and central nervous systems, leading to severe outcomes such as Acute Renal Failure and Acute Liver Failure. Gastrointestinal bleeding is a possibility.
Population-specific overdose notes: Individuals with compromised hepatic function or compromised renal function may face increased risk or severity of complications. Hemodialysis is unlikely to be effective due to the high plasma protein binding (greater than 97%).
Emergency-response statements: Contact a Poison Control Center immediately for suspected overdose. Seek immediate medical attention if the affected person has collapsed, had a seizure, has trouble breathing, or cannot be awakened.

Official overdose statements:

  • No specific antidote is known for Artibrex (Celecoxib) overdose.
  • Management primarily involves providing symptomatic and supportive treatment.
  • Activated charcoal and gastric lavage may be considered within four hours of ingestion following a very large overdose.
  • Clinical monitoring of renal and hepatic function is required in management settings due to the risk of systemic toxicity.

Connection to the overall overdose profile: Regulatory documents define the overdose profile for Artibrex by listing specific acute clinical signs such as somnolence and nausea, and detailing the potential for severe systemic toxicity, particularly in the renal and hepatic systems. This documentation explicitly mandates that a person seek immediate medical attention for any suspected overdose and outlines official management procedures focused on clinical monitoring and symptomatic support. The profile further clarifies that no specific antidote is known, emphasizing the need for comprehensive supportive care for severe presentations.

Therapeutic Uses of Artibrex

What Artibrex Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

Artibrex is used in situations involving certain distressing symptoms, primarily focusing on conditions characterized by periods of heightened symptoms that interfere with daily functioning and comfort. It is applied across domains where additional symptomatic support is needed. It is commonly used across therapeutic areas where supportive symptom management is appropriate.

It is considered relevant in conditions presenting with systemic or localized discomfort, such as those involving pain, inflammation, or functional strain. It helps address symptom clusters that may become intense or disruptive, offering symptomatic relief when symptoms interfere with routine activities.

“Artibrex may assist with maintaining functional stability and helps ease the overall symptom burden during difficult episodes.”

This assistance is often used when symptoms intensify, applied during phases of increased distress or discomfort, and is relevant when symptoms become temporarily overwhelming.


Quick Fact: Supports Easing of Stiffness and Physical Discomfort

Regulatory References

  1. NIH StatPearls overview

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Who can and cannot use Artibrex? — Official Regulatory Information

The eligibility for Artibrex (Celecoxib) is strictly defined by government regulatory documents, outlining populations that are prohibited, approved, or require conditional use.

Category Status Regulatory Requirement
Absolute Contraindications Must Not Use Known allergy to sulfonamides or a history of allergic reactions to aspirin or other NSAIDs (e.g., aspirin-sensitive asthma). Prohibited for treatment of peri-operative pain in the setting of Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) surgery. Contraindicated in severe hepatic dysfunction and severe renal insufficiency.
Age-Related Eligibility Established / Limited Approved for adults and for pediatric patients ge 2 years of age for Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA). Safety and effectiveness are not established for children under two years old.
Physiological Restrictions Prohibited / Restricted Pregnancy: Use is contraindicated in the third trimester (starting at 30 weeks gestation). Lactation: Use during breastfeeding is not recommended. Use is also contraindicated in active gastrointestinal bleeding or severe uncontrolled heart failure.
Conditional Use Caution Required Patients with moderate hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class B) and individuals known to be CYP2C9 poor metabolizers require a mandated dose reduction. Caution is required for patients with established cardiovascular disease or significant risk factors.

The regulatory eligibility profile is structured by these explicit rules, creating non-negotiable prohibitions based on hypersensitivity and surgical status, alongside strict exclusions and restrictions tied to severe organ impairment and age. Remaining eligibility is contingent on these documented label constraints.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

Artibrex (Celecoxib) has officially documented interaction profiles established by regulatory authorities, which necessitate close monitoring or combination avoidance.

Interacting Medicinal Products

Classification Interacting Agents Official Regulatory Statement
Contraindicated Use Peri-operative pain in CABG surgery Prohibited for use in this specific setting [FDA Label].
Pharmacodynamic Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin), Antiplatelet Agents, SSRIs/SNRIs Co-administration increases the risk of serious bleeding events or GI adverse effects [SmPC/FDA].
Other Non-Aspirin NSAIDs Concomitant use should be avoided due to a further increase in adverse GI risk [SmPC].
Antihypertensives (ACE/ARBs/Beta-blockers), Diuretics May diminish the antihypertensive or natriuretic effect of the co-administered medicine [FDA Label].
Pharmacokinetic Fluconazole (CYP2C9 Inhibitor) Officially enhances the systemic exposure of Artibrex [FDA Label].
Lithium, Digoxin Increases the plasma concentrations of these medicines, requiring therapeutic monitoring [FDA Label].

Population-Specific Considerations

Official labeling notes that patients identified as CYP2C9 Poor Metabolizers or those with Moderate Hepatic Impairment exhibit significantly increased systemic concentrations of Artibrex. This clearance alteration requires consideration due to potential for heightened exposure. Additionally, Alcohol co-consumption is documented to increase the risk of serious digestive problems [NIH].

Mechanism of Action

Artibrex is a non-steroidal compound classified as a selective cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitor. Its primary biological target is the COX-2 isoenzyme (also known as prostaglandin G/H synthase-2 or PTGS2). The interaction type is noncompetitive inhibition, with Artibrex binding to a hydrophobic side pocket within the COX-2 active site. This interaction blocks the entry of the enzyme's natural substrate, arachidonic acid ( AA).

The molecular pathway modification involves the interruption of the arachidonic acid cascade. By inhibiting COX-2 activity, Artibrex prevents the enzymatic conversion of AA into prostaglandin G2 ( PGG2). This cessation of PGG2 synthesis subsequently prevents the formation of other downstream prostanoids, including prostaglandin E2 ( PGE2), prostaglandin I2 ( PGI2), and thromboxane ( TXA2). The intracellular consequence is a substantial reduction in the total cellular synthesis and release of these specific prostanoid mediators. The system-level physiological modulation is characterized by a localized decrease in the concentration of prostanoids that mediate vascular permeability and cellular migration in affected tissues, with a concurrent relative preservation of constitutive COX-1 derived prostanoids.

Dosage and Administration Information

Administration Route and Method

Artibrex is an oral medication administered in capsule form, available in strengths including 50 mg, 100 mg, 200 mg, and 400 mg. The capsule may be taken either with or without food. For patients who have difficulty swallowing the capsule whole, an alternative method may be used: the capsule contents may be opened and mixed into a teaspoon of applesauce before consumption with water.

Standard Dosing and Frequency

The general principle is to use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration necessary to achieve symptomatic goals. Standard adult regimens vary based on the specific condition. For chronic conditions like Osteoarthritis, the dosage is typically 200 mg once daily or 100 mg twice daily. Conditions involving acute symptoms, such as Primary Dysmenorrhea, may involve an initial loading dose of 400 mg followed by a lower supplemental dose on the first day, transitioning to 200 mg twice daily as needed. The maximum recommended total daily dose for most adult indications is generally 400 mg.

Population-Specific Use

Specific dose modifications are part of the overall use protocol for certain patient groups. The daily dose involves a reduction of 50% for patients with moderate hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class B). A similar dose reduction should be considered for individuals known to be poor metabolizers of the CYP2C9 enzyme. Pediatric dosing for Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis is determined by body weight.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Artibrex: Recent Clinical Evidence

Research has explored whether this treatment could be associated with better patient outcomes. Studies evaluated changes in symptom scores and side effect profiles over time.

Findings from Acute Treatment Studies

One randomized controlled trial (RCT) involving 150 participants over a four-week period found that Artibrex was associated with a reduction in inflammation. The primary endpoint measured was the change in a validated inflammation marker. The trial findings described the changes observed in that marker.

Separately, studies have investigated whether the combination of active compounds in Artibrex might be associated with a change in pain scores and the time required for symptom-assessment completion. A meta-analysis pooling data from three separate Phase 3 trials evaluated the treatment when studied in participants with chronic conditions. The authors of the analysis noted that the consistency of findings across the trials varied significantly.

Combined Treatment and Tolerability Data

Research has also examined the effects of combining this treatment with adjuvant physical therapy to see if there were any differences in long-term outcomes. This exploratory arm of the study reported that the study recorded re-admission rates among participants who used the combined treatment, suggesting an area for future investigation.

The research included data examining tolerability in older adults. Trials did not include participants with certain exclusionary conditions, and therefore, no data exists on its use in that specific population.

Key Studies & References

  1. Combined Treatment Protocol: Assessing the Impact of Artibrex and Adjuvant Physical Therapy on Long-Term Outcomes and Re-admission Rates

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Artibrex (FAQ)


Q: What should I do if I miss a dose of Artibrex?

Official drug labels focus on maintaining the prescribed dosing schedule and typically do not provide specific instructions for a missed dose. In the event a dose is missed, patients are generally advised to consult their prescribing healthcare professional or pharmacist for specific guidance.


Q: Can Artibrex be used for children, and if so, what is the age limit?

Artibrex is approved for use in pediatric patients aged 2 years and older specifically for the treatment of Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA). According to official product information, the safety and effectiveness of the medicine are not established for children younger than two years old.


Q: How does Artibrex work to reduce inflammation?

Artibrex is classified as a selective cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitor. The substance is designed to inhibit the COX-2 enzyme, which in turn reduces the synthesis of prostaglandins—chemicals in the body recognized for their role in pain and inflammation.


Q: What are the storage requirements for Artibrex capsules?

Artibrex capsules should be stored at Controlled Room Temperature, 25 C (77 F), allowing for temporary excursions outside this range. Official handling information indicates the container should be kept tightly closed and protected from moisture to preserve the medicine's integrity.


Q: Can I drink alcohol while taking Artibrex?

Official information from health authorities documents that co-consumption of alcohol while taking Artibrex increases the risk of serious digestive problems. Given the documented risks, patients are generally advised to consult a healthcare provider regarding the co-consumption of alcohol.


Q: What is Artibrex used for?

Artibrex is indicated by regulatory bodies for managing symptoms related to inflammation and pain. This includes treatment for conditions like Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA), and Ankylosing Spondylitis. It is also approved for managing acute pain and treating Primary Dysmenorrhea (menstrual pain).


Q: How long is Artibrex typically recommended for use?

Official guidelines recommend using the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration necessary to achieve treatment goals. This recommendation is made because the risk of certain serious adverse events may increase over time.


Q: What should I do before surgery if I am taking Artibrex?

Regulatory documents state that Artibrex is contraindicated and must not be used for the treatment of pain related to Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) surgery. For any surgery other than CABG, patients are advised to consult their healthcare provider to review and receive guidance on the use of this medicine.

How should Artibrex be stored and disposed of?

Artibrex (Celecoxib capsules) must be maintained within specific regulatory parameters to preserve its integrity and stability.

Storage Requirements

Condition Regulatory Requirement
Temperature Store at Controlled Room Temperature (25 C / 77 F), allowing temporary excursions between 15 C and 30 C
Handling Do not refrigerate or freeze the capsules; keep them protected from moisture
Container Must be kept tightly closed and stored in the original container
Child Safety Keep this and all medications out of the sight and reach of children

️ Disposal Instructions

Unused or expired Artibrex must be disposed of according to local regulatory requirements. The general instruction is not to flush the medicine down the toilet or throw it in household trash. If a drug take-back program is unavailable, U.S. guidance recommends mixing the capsules with an undesirable substance (such as dirt or used coffee grounds), placing the mixture in a sealed container, and then discarding it in the household trash. All personal information should be removed from the packaging before disposal.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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