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Compare Meloxicam vs. Oxycodone

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

Key takeaways

Meloxicam and oxycodone (Roxicodone, OxyContin) are both medications used to treat pain, but they belong to different classes. Meloxicam is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that treats pain from arthritis and other inflammatory conditions, while oxycodone is an opioid used for pain that isn't relieved by non-opioid medications. Meloxicam is available in oral forms like capsules, tablets, and liquid, as well as an injectable form (only administered by a healthcare professional), and is typically taken once daily. Oxycodone is available as immediate-release tablets, capsules, and liquid, and is usually taken every 4 to 6 hours as needed. Both medications are available as generics. Oxycodone is a controlled substance with a high risk of misuse and dependence. Common side effects of meloxicam include diarrhea and stomach upset, while oxycodone can cause constipation, drowsiness, and slowed breathing. Meloxicam can interact with other NSAIDs and blood thinners, while oxycodone can interact with medications that cause drowsiness or slow breathing.

  • Meloxicam
    Oxycodone
  • Meloxicam
    Oxycodone

  • Summary of Meloxicam vs. Oxycodone

    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 Opioid
    Prescription only

    Immediate-release oxycodone, also known by its brand names Roxicodone and Oxaydo, is an opioid. It's used to treat pain that isn't relieved by non-opioid pain medications. Immediate-release oxycodone is available as tablets, capsules, and a liquid that are taken by mouth. Your prescriber will work with you to find the dosage for your individual needs, but it's typically taken every 4 to 6 hours as needed for your pain. Common side effects include making you constipated, sleepy, and dizzy. Oxycodone is a controlled substance because it has a high risk of misuse and dependence.

  • Indications of Meloxicam vs. Oxycodone

    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
    •Pain that isn't relieved by non-opioid pain medications alone

  • Pros and Cons of Meloxicam vs. Oxycodone

    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 Opioid
    Pros
    •Immediate-release oxycodone can start to relieve pain within 30 minutes
    •Available as a lower-cost generic (except Oxaydo)
    Cons
    •High risk of misuse, dependence, and addiction
    •Must slowly lower the dose to stop the medication after long-term use to avoid withdrawal symptoms
    •Have special requirements to fill a prescription for it because it's a controlled substance

  • Common Side Effects of Meloxicam vs. Oxycodone

    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
    •Nausea
    •Constipation
    •Vomiting
    •Itching
    •Headache
    •Dizziness
    •Weakness
    •Sleepiness
    •Trouble sleeping

  • Warnings of Meloxicam vs. Oxycodone

    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
    •Potential for addiction and misuse
    •Dangerously slow breathing (respiratory depression)
    •Risk for opioid overdose
    •Difficulty concentrating and extreme sleepiness
    •Drug interactions
    •Harm to newborn babies
    •Physical dependence and withdrawal
    •Low blood pressure
    •Low adrenal hormone levels
    •Seizures

  • Prices with our coupons for Meloxicam vs. Oxycodone

    Learn more about Meloxicam
    Learn more about Oxycodone

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