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Indocin vs. Mobic

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

Key takeaways

Indomethacin (Indocin) and meloxicam (Mobic) are both NSAIDs used to treat arthritis pain, but they have some key differences. Indomethacin is available as a tablet, liquid, and rectal suppository, while meloxicam comes in oral forms like capsules, tablets, and liquid, as well as an injectable form. Indomethacin is typically used multiple times a day, whereas meloxicam is usually taken once daily. Meloxicam tends to cause fewer stomach and kidney side effects because it blocks COX-2 more than COX-1, unlike indomethacin, which blocks both COX-1 and COX-2. Both medications require a prescription and are not safe during pregnancy.

Indomethacin

(Indocin)

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Meloxicam

 

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Summary for Indocin

Prescription only

Indomethacin (Indocin) is an NSAID that's used to treat different types of arthritis, including arthritis related to gout. It's also used to treat conditions that cause shoulder pain. This medication can be used in people 15 years of age and older; it hasn't been studied in younger children. The oral form of indomethacin (Indocin) is available as capsules (both immediate-release and extended-release) and a liquid. The dosage for immediate-release formulations is typically 2 to 4 times a day, and the dosage for extended-release capsules is once a day. Common side effects include headache, dizziness, and stomach upset.

Indications for Indocin

Pros and Cons for Indocin

Pros

  • Can relieve pain and swelling
  • Available in fast-acting formulations and a longer-acting, extended-release capsule
  • Dose can be adjusted by your provider if needed
  • Liquid version is a good option for people who have trouble swallowing pills

Cons

  • Might not be the best option for long-term use because of safety risks
  • Most forms are taken 2 to 4 times a day
  • Not a good choice if you have kidney or liver problems
  • Can raise your risk of blood clots, heart attack, or stroke (similar to other NSAIDs)

Common Side Effects for Indocin

Note: Side effects listed here are for immediate-release indomethacin. Side effects for extended-release capsules might differ.

  • Headache (12%)
  • Nausea (up to 9%)
  • Upset stomach (up to 9%)
  • Dizziness (up to 9%)

Warnings for Indocin

  • Stomach bleeding and ulcers
  • Heart attack and stroke
  • High blood pressure and heart failure
  • Liver problems
  • Kidney damage and high potassium levels
  • Severe allergic reactions
  • Severe asthma attack
  • Worsening of nervous system and mental health problems
  • Harm to unborn babies

Summary for Mobic

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 Mobic

Pros and Cons for Mobic

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 Mobic

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

Warnings for Mobic

  • 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 Indocin vs. Mobic

Price Card Drug Icon
Indomethacin1 vial / 1mg
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Meloxicam30 tablets / 15mg
$8.62$29.05
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