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Compare Baclofen vs. Meloxicam

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Baclofen (Ozobax DS, Fleqsuvy, Lyvispah) and meloxicam (Mobic, Anjeso) are both prescription medications, but they belong to different classes and treat different conditions. Baclofen is a muscle relaxant used to treat muscle spasms from multiple sclerosis or spinal cord injuries, while meloxicam is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used for pain from arthritis. Baclofen is taken orally in various forms, such as tablets, oral solutions, and dissolvable granules, typically three times a day. In contrast, meloxicam is available as capsules, tablets, oral suspension, and an injection, and is usually taken once daily. Baclofen can cause side effects like sleepiness and dizziness and should not be stopped suddenly due to the risk of withdrawal. Meloxicam, on the other hand, can cause stomach bleeding and heart issues, especially if taken with alcohol or other NSAIDs. Both medications are not recommended during pregnancy.

  • Baclofen
    Meloxicam
  • Baclofen
    Meloxicam

  • Summary of Baclofen vs. Meloxicam

    Summary for Muscle relaxant
    Prescription only

    Baclofen is a muscle relaxer. It's used to treat muscle spasms from multiple sclerosis or spinal cord injuries in adults and children ages 12 years and older. This medication is taken by mouth, typically 3 times a day. Baclofen comes as tablets, as well as oral solutions (including brand names Ozobax DS and Fleqsuvy) and dissolvable granules (brand name Lyvispah) for people who've trouble swallowing tablets. Side effects of baclofen include sleepiness, dizziness, and nausea. If you stop this medication too suddenly, you might experience withdrawal symptoms.

    Summary for NSAID
    Prescription only

    Meloxicam is a prescription non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It's used for different types of arthritis pain. It comes as capsules, tablets and a liquid. All forms are for adults, but some are also for children of certain age and weight. Meloxicam is taken by mouth once a day. The dosage depends on your arthritis type, the form of meloxicam you're using, and age and weight for children. Common side effects include diarrhea, joint pain, and stomach upset. Like all NSAIDs, it can raise the risk of stomach bleeds. Meloxicam is a generic medication; its brand name Mobic is no longer available.

  • Indications of Baclofen vs. Meloxicam

    Indications for
    •Muscle spasms from multiple sclerosis or spinal cord injuries in people ages 12 years and older
    Indications for
    •Osteoarthritis (OA) - capsules, tablets, and oral liquid
    •Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) - tablets and oral liquid
    •Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA) - tablets and oral liquid

  • Pros and Cons of Baclofen vs. Meloxicam

    Pros and Const for Muscle relaxant
    Pros
    •Starts to work quickly
    •Can take with or without food
    •Tablets and some liquid formulations are available as lower-cost generics
    •Can crush or cut tablets
    Cons
    •Sleepiness is a common side effect
    •Oral granules are available as a brand-name only
    •Can cause withdrawal symptoms if stopped too quickly
    •Might not be safe while pregnant
    Pros and Const for NSAID
    Pros
    •Only taken once a day
    •Might cause less stomach upset and other stomach problems than some other NSAIDs
    •Also available as a liquid for people who have trouble swallowing pills
    Cons
    •Available by prescription only
    •Might not be the best option for older adults or people with kidney, heart, liver, or bleeding problems
    •Can't switch easily between capsules, tablets, and liquid (can't be substituted for one another)

  • Common Side Effects of Baclofen vs. Meloxicam

    Common Side Effects for
    •Sleepiness (up to 63%)
    •Dizziness (up to 15%)
    •Weakness (up to 15%)
    •Nausea (up to 12%)
    •Confusion (up to 11%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Headache
    •Diarrhea
    •Indigestion
    •Nausea
    •Stomach pain
    •Joint pain
    •Flu-like symptoms

  • Warnings of Baclofen vs. Meloxicam

    Common Side Effects for
    •Withdrawal symptoms
    •Extreme sleepiness or dizziness
    •Worsening of other health conditions
    •Don't take during pregnancy
    Common Side Effects for
    •Risk of stomach ulcers and stomach bleeding
    •Risk of heart attack and stroke
    •High blood pressure
    •Swelling and risk of heart failure
    •Liver problems
    •Kidney damage
    •High potassium levels
    •Risk of general bleeding and anemia
    •Severe allergic reactions and skin reactions
    •Worsening asthma in certain people
    •Harm to an unborn baby

  • Prices with our coupons for Baclofen vs. Meloxicam

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