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Compare Cyclobenzaprine vs. Meloxicam

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

Key takeaways

Cyclobenzaprine and meloxicam are both medications used to relieve pain, but they belong to different drug classes and treat different types of pain. Cyclobenzaprine is a muscle relaxant used to treat muscle pain and discomfort, while meloxicam is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used for arthritis pain. Cyclobenzaprine is available as immediate-release tablets and extended-release capsules, whereas meloxicam comes in capsules, tablets, oral suspension, and as an injection. Cyclobenzaprine is typically taken up to three times a day, while meloxicam is usually taken once daily. Cyclobenzaprine can cause drowsiness and dry mouth, and it may interact with medications that affect serotonin levels, leading to serotonin syndrome. Meloxicam, on the other hand, can cause stomach bleeding and increase the risk of heart attack or stroke, especially if taken with other NSAIDs or alcohol. Both medications are available as generics. They have different side effects and interactions, so it's important to use them as directed by your healthcare provider.

  • Cyclobenzaprine
    Meloxicam
  • Cyclobenzaprine
    Meloxicam

  • Summary of Cyclobenzaprine vs. Meloxicam

    Summary for Muscle relaxant
    Prescription only

    Cyclobenzaprine is a muscle relaxant used in addition to rest and physical therapy to treat muscle pain and discomfort. It's available as an immediate-release (IR) tablet and an extended-release (ER) capsule. Unlike other muscle relaxants, it's not considered a controlled substance. Cyclobenzaprine can make you sleepy as a side effect so it's best to avoid alcohol to prevent serious harm from combining the two together.

    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 Cyclobenzaprine vs. Meloxicam

    Indications for
    •Muscle discomfort caused by acute (not long-term) conditions
    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 Cyclobenzaprine vs. Meloxicam

    Pros and Const for Muscle relaxant
    Pros
    •Works well to relieve muscle spasms
    •Available as an IR tablet and ER capsule
    •Available as a lower-cost generic
    •Can use if you have kidney problems
    Cons
    •Can make you feel dizzy and sleepy
    •Only meant for short-term use (up to 2 to 3 weeks)
    •Doesn't work for muscle spasms caused by brain or spinal injuries
    •Might not be a good option if you're 65 years or older or have liver problems because of higher risk of side effects
    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 Cyclobenzaprine vs. Meloxicam

    Common Side Effects for

    Immediate-release tablets:

    •Drowsiness (up to 39%)
    •Dry mouth (up to 32%)
    •Dizziness (up to 11%)
    •Feeling tired (up to 6%)
    •Headache (up to 5%)

    Extended-release capsules:

    •Dry mouth (6-14%)
    •Dizziness (3-6%)
    •Indigestion (up to 4%)
    •Nausea (3%)
    •Feeling tired (3%)
    •Constipation (1-3%)
    •Drowsiness (1-2%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Headache
    •Diarrhea
    •Indigestion
    •Nausea
    •Stomach pain
    •Joint pain
    •Flu-like symptoms

  • Warnings of Cyclobenzaprine vs. Meloxicam

    Common Side Effects for
    •Serotonin syndrome
    •Effect on driving and concentration
    •Dry mouth, dry eyes, and trouble urinating
    •Caution use in people with liver problems
    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 Cyclobenzaprine vs. Meloxicam

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    Learn more about Meloxicam

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