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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) 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

    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
    •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
    •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
    •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
    •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

    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

    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
    •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 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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