Last updated: March 2026
How Much Does Celecoxib Cost?
Cost Breakdown by Type
| Type / Procedure | Without Insurance | With Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Celecoxib 100mg (generic) | $10 – $25 | $2 – $10 |
| Celecoxib 200mg (generic) | $10 – $35 | $3 – $12 |
| Celebrex 200mg (brand) | $250 – $400 | $30 – $80 |
What Affects the Cost
- Brand-name vs. generic availability
- Insurance formulary tier placement
- Pharmacy choice (retail vs. mail-order vs. Costco)
- Manufacturer savings cards and coupons
- Dosage and quantity prescribed
- Geographic location
Insurance Coverage
Typical coverage: Tier 1-2 generic — COX-2 selective NSAID with lower GI bleeding risk
Most insurance plans use a tiered formulary: Tier 1 (generic) $0-$15 copay, Tier 2 (preferred brand) $25-$75, Tier 3 (non-preferred brand) $50-$150, Tier 4 (specialty) $100-$500+. Prior authorization may be required for certain medications. Step therapy may require trying cheaper alternatives first.
How to Save Money
- Always ask for generic when available — saves 50-90%
- Use GoodRx, RxSaver, or similar discount cards
- Costco pharmacy is open to non-members and often has lowest prices
- Mark Cuban's Cost Plus Drugs offers transparent low pricing
- Manufacturer patient assistance programs provide free medication to qualifying patients
- HSA/FSA funds can cover medication costs tax-free
Related Procedures & Costs
Frequently Asked Questions
Generic celecoxib costs $10 to $40 per month without insurance. The brand Celebrex is much more expensive at $250 to $400 per month.
Yes, celecoxib causes significantly fewer GI ulcers and bleeding events compared to traditional NSAIDs. However, it still carries cardiovascular and kidney risks similar to other NSAIDs.
Patients with a history of stomach ulcers, GI bleeding, or who take blood thinners may benefit from celecoxib's lower GI risk. It should not be used in patients with sulfa allergy or cardiovascular disease.