Indocin vs. Mobic for Rheumatoid Arthritis and Osteoarthritis: Important Differences and Potential Risks.

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) suppository is an NSAID that's used to treat different types of arthritis and conditions that cause pain in the shoulder. It helps lower inflammation and relieve pain. As a suppository, it's inserted into the rectum, typically 2 to 4 times a day depending on what condition the medication is being used to treat. Side effects might include headache and stomach upset. Unlike other NSAIDs, indomethacin (Indocin) suppository isn't available over-the-counter and requires a prescription from your healthcare provider.

Indications for Indocin

Moderate-to-severe rheumatoid arthritis, including flare-ups
Moderate-to-severe ankylosing spondylitis
Moderate-to-severe osteoarthritis
Shoulder pain caused by bursitis or tendonitis
Gouty arthritis

Pros and Cons for Indocin

Pros

Good option for people who have trouble swallowing pills
Can treat many different types of arthritis
Available as a lower-cost generic

Cons

Only available in one strength (50 mg), so you might need to use several suppositories if you're taking a high dose
Might need to take multiple times per day
Not available over-the-counter

Common Side Effects for Indocin

Note: The side effects listed here are for indomethacin capsules. Side effects for the suppositories might differ.

Headache
Dizziness
Nausea
Stomach upset

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

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 for Mobic

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)