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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

 

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Oxycodone

 

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Summary for Meloxicam

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.

Indications for Meloxicam

Pros and Cons for Meloxicam

Pros

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)

Common Side Effects for Meloxicam

  • Headache
  • Diarrhea
  • Indigestion
  • Nausea
  • Stomach pain
  • Joint pain
  • Flu-like symptoms

Warnings for Meloxicam

  • 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

Summary for Oxycodone

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 for Oxycodone

Pros and Cons for Oxycodone

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 for Oxycodone

Warnings for Oxycodone

  • 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

Price Card Drug Icon
Meloxicam30 tablets / 15mg
$8.62$29.05
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Oxycodone90 tablets / 5mg
$22.44$50.28
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