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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 that helps relieve muscle pain and discomfort. It's often used short term with rest and physical therapy. Immediate-release tablets are for people 15 years and older and are taken a few times a day. Once sold under the brand name Flexeril, the tablets now as a generic and brand name Fexmid. Extended-release capsules are for adults only and are taken once a day. The capsules comes as a generic and brand name Amrix. Cyclobenzaprine can make you sleepy and have dry mouth as side effects.

    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 from short-term muscle or bone injury problems
    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
    •Can take with or without food
    •Available as short-acting and long-acting forms for flexible dosing schedules
    •Can help with recovery from acute painful muscle problems in a few days
    Cons
    •Only meant for short-term use (up to 2 to 3 weeks at a time)
    •Might not be a safe option for older adults
    •Not known to work well for nerve pain or muscle spasms caused by brain or spinal injuries
    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 (39%)
    •Dry mouth (27%)
    •Dizziness (11%)

    Extended-release capsules:

    •Dry mouth (14%)
    •Dizziness (6%)
    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
    •Caution use in people with glaucoma or 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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