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Compare Meloxicam vs. Methocarbamol

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

Key takeaways

Meloxicam and methocarbamol are both prescription medications used to manage pain, but they belong to different medication classes and treat different types of pain. Meloxicam is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used for arthritis pain, while methocarbamol is a muscle relaxer used for muscle pain and discomfort. Meloxicam is available in various forms, including capsules, tablets, oral suspension, and injection, and is typically taken once daily. In contrast, methocarbamol is taken orally three to four times a day and is also available as an injection. The injection forms are only administered by a healthcare professional. Both medications are available as lower-cost generics. Common side effects of meloxicam include diarrhea and stomach upset, while methocarbamol can cause dizziness and drowsiness. Meloxicam can interact with other NSAIDs and blood thinners, increasing the risk of bleeding, while methocarbamol can interact with medications that cause drowsiness, such as opioids. Both medications should be used with caution in older adults and those with certain health conditions.

  • Meloxicam
    Methocarbamol
  • Meloxicam
    Methocarbamol

  • Summary of Meloxicam vs. Methocarbamol

    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 Muscle relaxant
    Prescription only

    Methocarbamol (Robaxin) is a muscle relaxer. It's used to treat muscle pain and discomfort, like back pain, in people ages 16 years and older. It works best when used along with non-medication treatments, such as rest and physical therapy. Methocarbamol is taken by mouth, typically 3 or 4 times daily. It's also available as an injection that's given into the muscles or through the veins, typically in a hospital setting. Side effects of methocarbamol include dizziness, drowsiness, and blurry vision.

  • Indications of Meloxicam vs. Methocarbamol

    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
    •Muscle pain and discomfort caused by acute (short-term) conditions
    •Muscle problems due to tetanus - injection form only

  • Pros and Cons of Meloxicam vs. Methocarbamol

    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 Muscle relaxant
    Pros
    •Starts to work within 30 minutes to relieve muscle pain and discomfort
    •Less likely to cause drowsiness compared to some other muscle relaxers
    •Tablets can be cut in half
    Cons
    •Taken 3 to 4 times daily
    •Older adults at higher risk for side effects
    •Not safe to take either some other pain medications, such as opioid medications

  • Common Side Effects of Meloxicam vs. Methocarbamol

    Common Side Effects for
    •Headache
    •Diarrhea
    •Indigestion
    •Nausea
    •Stomach pain
    •Joint pain
    •Flu-like symptoms
    Common Side Effects for
    •Dizziness or lightheadedness
    •Drowsiness
    •Blurry vision
    •Headache
    •Nausea
    •Upset stomach

  • Warnings of Meloxicam vs. Methocarbamol

    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
    •Effect on driving and concentration
    •Interactions with other medications

  • Prices with our coupons for Meloxicam vs. Methocarbamol

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