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Compare Meloxicam vs. Indocin

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

Key takeaways

Meloxicam and indomethacin (Indocin) are both non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) used to treat pain and inflammation from conditions like arthritis. They work by blocking proteins called cyclooxygenase (COX) that cause inflammation, pain, and swelling. However, these medications differ in their forms and specific uses. Meloxicam is available in oral forms like capsules, tablets, and liquid, as well as an injectable form (only administered by a healthcare professional), while indomethacin is available as an oral capsulin, oral liquid solution, or rectal suppository. Meloxicam is used for osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, and its injectable form is for moderate-to-severe pain. Indomethacin treats moderate-to-severe rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, osteoarthritis, shoulder pain, and gouty arthritis. Meloxicam is typically taken once daily, whereas indomethacin is often taken multiple times a day. Both medications can cause stomach bleeding and should not be taken with other NSAIDs. Common side effects of meloxicam and indomethacin include diarrhea and joint pain, headache, and stomach upset.

  • Meloxicam
    Indomethacin (Indocin) suppository
  • Meloxicam
    Indomethacin (Indocin) suppository

  • Summary of Meloxicam vs. Indocin

    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.

    Summary for NSAID
    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 of Meloxicam vs. Indocin

    Indications for
    •Osteoarthritis (OA) - capsules, tablets, and oral liquid
    •Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) - tablets and oral liquid
    •Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA) - tablets and oral liquid
    Indications for
    •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 of Meloxicam vs. Indocin

    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)
    Pros and Const for NSAID
    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 of Meloxicam vs. Indocin

    Common Side Effects for
    •Headache
    •Diarrhea
    •Indigestion
    •Nausea
    •Stomach pain
    •Joint pain
    •Flu-like symptoms
    Common Side Effects for

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

    •Headache
    •Dizziness
    •Nausea
    •Stomach upset

  • Warnings of Meloxicam vs. Indocin

    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
    Common Side Effects for
    •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

  • Prices with our coupons for Meloxicam vs. Indocin

    Learn more about Meloxicam
    Learn more about Indomethacin

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