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Compare Meloxicam vs. Aleve

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

Key takeaways

Meloxicam and naproxen (Aleve) are both non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) used to treat pain and inflammation. They work by blocking proteins called cyclooxygenase (COX) that cause inflammation and pain. However, they have some differences. Meloxicam is available by prescription only and comes in various forms, including capsules, tablets, oral suspension, and an injection (administered by a healthcare professional only). Naproxen is available over-the-counter (OTC) as a tablet under the brand name Aleve. Meloxicam is typically taken once a day, whereas naproxen is taken every 8 to 12 hours as needed. Meloxicam is used for arthritis pain, while naproxen OTC is used for minor aches, pains, and fever. Both medications can cause side effects like stomach upset, heartburn, and diarrhea. You should avoid taking either medication with alcohol, as it can increase the risk of stomach bleeding. Additionally, both medications are not recommended during pregnancy, especially after 20 weeks, due to potential harm to the unborn baby.

  • Meloxicam
    Naproxen sodium (Aleve)
  • Meloxicam
    Naproxen sodium (Aleve)

  • Summary of Meloxicam vs. Aleve

    Summary for NSAID
    Prescription only

    Meloxicam is a prescription non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used for different types of arthritis pain. It comes as a capsule, tablet, or liquid that you take by mouth. It's also available as an injection that's given by a healthcare provider in a hospital setting. Common side effects include diarrhea, joint pain, and stomach upset. Like all NSAIDs, meloxicam can raise the risk for stomach bleeds.

    Summary for NSAID
    Prescription only

    Over-the-counter naproxen sodium (Aleve) is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It can be taken by adults and children ages 12 years and older to ease minor aches and pains, and to relieve fever. Naproxen sodium (Aleve) works by blocking certain proteins in the body that cause inflammation and pain. Naproxen sodium (Aleve) is taken by mouth, typically every 6 to 8 hours. Common side effects of this medication include stomach upset, dizziness, headache. It's best to avoid drinking alcohol while taking naproxen sodium (Aleve) because doing so can worsen gut-related side effects.

  • Indications of Meloxicam vs. Aleve

    Indications for
    •Pain from osteoarthritis (capsules, tablets, and oral suspension)
    •Pain from rheumatoid arthritis and juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA) (tablets and oral suspension)
    •Moderate-to-severe pain (Anjeso injection)
    Indications for
    •Short-term relief of minor aches and pains due:
    •Headaches
    •Arthritis
    •Muscle aches
    •Backache
    •Menstrual cramps
    •Common cold
    •Lower fever

  • Pros and Cons of Meloxicam vs. Aleve

    Pros and Const for NSAID
    Pros
    •Only taken once a day
    •Available as a lower-cost generic
    •Causes less stomach upset than some other NSAIDs
    •Works well to treat pain caused by different types of arthritis
    Cons
    •Available only by prescription
    •Not safe during pregnancy
    •Might not be the best option if you're 65 years or older, or have kidney, heart, liver, or bleeding problems
    •Different formulations (e.g., capsules, liquid) might not be able to be substituted for one another
    Pros and Const for NSAID
    Pros
    •Works well for treating pain and inflammation
    •Available over the counter (OTC) and as a lower-cost generic
    •Effects last longer than other NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen (Advil)
    Cons
    •OTC naproxen is only available as a tablet
    •Can raise your risk for bleeding
    •Might not be the best option if you're 65 years or older, or have kidney, heart, liver, or bleeding problems

  • Common Side Effects of Meloxicam vs. Aleve

    Common Side Effects for

    Meloxicam capsules, tablets, and oral solution:

    •Headache (up to 8%)
    •Diarrhea (up to 8%)
    •Joint pain (up to 6%)
    •Urinary tract infections (up to 6%)
    •Flu-like symptoms (up to 6%)
    •Upset stomach (up to 5%)
    •Swelling (up to 5%)

    Meloxicam (Anjeso) injection:

    •Constipation (8%)
    •Liver damage (3%)
    •Low red blood cells (2%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Heartburn
    •Nausea
    •Stomach pain
    •Dizziness
    •Headache

  • Warnings of Meloxicam vs. Aleve

    Common Side Effects for
    •Stomach bleeding
    •Heart attack and stroke
    •High blood pressure and heart failure
    •Liver problems
    •Kidney damage and high potassium levels
    •Severe allergic reactions
    •Severe asthma attack
    •Harm to unborn babies
    Common Side Effects for
    •Stomach bleeding
    •Heart attack and stroke
    •High blood pressure and heart failure
    •Kidney damage
    •Liver problems
    •Severe allergic reactions
    •Not for use while pregnant or breastfeeding

  • Prices with our coupons for Meloxicam vs. Aleve

    Learn more about Meloxicam
    Learn more about Naproxen sodium

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