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Etodolac vs. Meloxicam

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

Key takeaways

Etodolac and meloxicam are both non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) used to treat pain and inflammation from conditions like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. However, they have some differences. Etodolac is available only as an oral medication, while meloxicam comes in oral forms and as an injection (for administration by a healthcare professional only). Etodolac is available as an immediate-release or extended-release tablet, with the extended-release form indicated for children as young as 6 years old. Etodolac is typically taken multiple times a day, while meloxicam is usually taken once daily. Both medications can cause side effects like stomach pain and bleeding. It's important to avoid taking either medication with other NSAIDs or alcohol, as this can increase the risk of serious side effects. Both medications are not safe to use during pregnancy, especially after 20 weeks.

Etodolac

 

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Meloxicam

 

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Summary for Etodolac

Prescription only

Etodolac, also known by its brand name Lodine, is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). The immediate-release pills are taken throughout the day; they're approved for adults with sudden, short-term pain; rheumatoid arthritis; or osteoarthritis. There's also an extended-release tablet for people ages 6 years and older that's taken once per day for the same types of arthritis. Side effects can include stomach pain, dizziness, and rash. Etodolac is currently available by prescription as generic only; the brand name has been discontinued.

Indications for Etodolac

Pros and Cons for Etodolac

Pros

  • Works well to treat pain and inflammation
  • Extended-release tablets can be used for children as young as 6 years old
  • Available as a lower-cost generic

Cons

  • Only available as pills that can't be split, open, or crushed
  • Not safe to take after 20 weeks of pregnancy
  • Might not be the best option if you're 65 years or older or if you have kidney, heart, liver, or bleeding problems

Common Side Effects for Etodolac

The following side effects were reported in 1% to 10% of people who took etodolac:

Warnings for Etodolac

  • Stomach bleeding
  • Heart attack and stroke
  • High blood pressure and heart failure
  • Kidney damage
  • Liver problems
  • Severe allergic reactions and skin reactions
  • Not safe to take while pregnant
  • Risk for bleeding

Summary for Meloxicam

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 for Meloxicam

Pros and Cons for Meloxicam

Pros

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 for Meloxicam

  • Headache
  • Diarrhea
  • Indigestion
  • Nausea
  • Stomach pain
  • Joint pain
  • Flu-like symptoms

Warnings for Meloxicam

  • 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 Etodolac vs. Meloxicam

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Etodolac60 tablets / 400mg
$25.84$78.73
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Meloxicam30 tablets / 15mg
$8.62$29.05
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