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Compare Meloxicam vs. Relafen

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

Key takeaways

Meloxicam (Mobic) and nabumetone (Relafen) are both prescription NSAIDs used to treat arthritis pain, but they have some differences. Meloxicam is available in multiple forms, including capsules, tablets, oral suspension, and injection, while nabumetone is only available as an oral tablet. Meloxicam tends to block COX-2 more than COX-1, which may result in fewer stomach and kidney side effects compared to other NSAIDs. Nabumetone, on the other hand, is a non-selective COX inhibitor. Both medications can raise the risk of serious side effects like stomach bleeding, heart attack, and kidney problems. Both medications also have potential to cause severe asthma attacks in some people. Additionally, neither is not recommended during late pregnancy, especially after 20 weeks. Both medications should be taken with caution if you have a history of heart, liver, or kidney problems.

  • Meloxicam
    Nabumetone
  • Meloxicam
    Nabumetone

  • Summary of Meloxicam vs. Relafen

    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

    Nabumetone is a prescription nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It works to help relieve symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis in adults. This can include pain, swelling, and stiffness in your joints. Nabumetone is a tablet that you take by mouth typically once per day. The dosage can be adjusted based on how well the medication is working for you. Side effects can include diarrhea and upset stomach.

  • Indications of Meloxicam vs. Relafen

    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
    •Rheumatoid arthritis (RA)
    •Osteoarthritis (OA)

  • Pros and Cons of Meloxicam vs. Relafen

    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
    •Works well to help with OA and RA
    •Might have a lower risk of serious stomach issues than some other NSAIDs
    •Typically taken by mouth once per day
    Cons
    •Requires a prescription from a healthcare professional
    •Has many risks, including heart issues, stomach bleeding, and kidney problems
    •Not recommended for people with severe heart failure or kidney problems

  • Common Side Effects of Meloxicam vs. Relafen

    Common Side Effects for
    •Headache
    •Diarrhea
    •Indigestion
    •Nausea
    •Stomach pain
    •Joint pain
    •Flu-like symptoms
    Common Side Effects for
    •Diarrhea (14%)
    •Indigestion (13%)
    •Stomach pain (12%)
    •Constipation (up to 9%)
    •Gas (up to 9%)
    •Nausea (up to 9%)
    •Dizziness (up to 9%)
    •Headache (up to 9%)
    •Itching (up to 9%)
    •Rash (up to 9%)
    •Ringing in the ears (up to 9%)
    •Swelling (up to 9%)

  • Warnings of Meloxicam vs. Relafen

    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
    •Risk of stomach ulcers and stomach bleeding
    •Risk of heart attack and stroke
    •High blood pressure
    •Swelling and risk of heart failure
    •Kidney damage
    •Liver problems
    •Risk of general bleeding and anemia
    •Severe allergic reactions and skin reactions
    •Not safe to take while pregnant

  • Prices with our coupons for Meloxicam vs. Relafen

    Learn more about Meloxicam
    Learn more about Nabumetone

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