The Institute for Safe Medication Practices (ISMP) has recently issued several alerts regarding medication errors resulting from confusion of four different products (Celebrex, Celexa, Cerebyx, and Cerebra). Celebrex, Celexa and Cerebyx are all KUMC formulary products. Please refer to the following table for clarification of the use of these products:
Brand Name |
Generic Name |
Uses |
Celebrex |
celecoxib |
Relief of the signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. |
Celexa |
citalopram |
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) indicated for the treatment of depression. |
Cerebyx |
fosphenytoin |
Control of generalized convulsive status epilepticus and prevention and treatment of seizures occurring during neurosurgery. It can also be substituted, short-term, for oral phenytoin. |
Cerebra |
huperzine A |
Herbal supplement claimed to enhance focus, memory, and concentration. |
Suggestions to reduce the likelihood of medication errors includes
Include the indication on prescriptions written for these drugs
Separate these drugs in all storage areas
Closely check the appearance of all new drugs
Closely review all labels against the prescribed medication.
