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Compare Meloxicam vs. Tramadol

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

Key takeaways

Meloxicam and tramadol (ConZip, Qdolo) are both medications used to manage pain, but they belong to different classes and have distinct uses. Meloxicam is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) primarily used for arthritis pain, while tramadol is an opioid used when non-opioid medications aren't effective. Meloxicam is available in oral forms like capsules, tablets, and liquid suspension, as well as an injectable form, only administered by a healthcare professional. Tramadol comes in immediate-release and extended-release oral tablet forms. Meloxicam is taken once daily, while tramadol's dosing varies based on the formulation, with immediate-release tablets taken every 4 to 6 hours as needed, and extended release tablets taken once a day. Both medications are available as lower-cost generics. Tramadol is a controlled substance due to its potential for misuse and dependency. Common side effects of meloxicam include diarrhea and stomach upset, while tramadol can cause constipation and dizziness. Meloxicam should not be taken with other NSAIDs, and tramadol can interact with medications that affect serotonin levels, increasing the risk of serotonin syndrome.

  • Meloxicam
    Tramadol
  • Meloxicam
    Tramadol

  • Summary of Meloxicam vs. Tramadol

    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 Opioid
    Prescription only

    Tramadol is an opioid pain medication used when non-opioid medications aren't working well enough to control pain. Compared to other opioids, tramadol might have a lower risk of misuse and dependency. But tramadol is a controlled substance and has a lot of potentially serious risks, so it must be used with caution.

  • Indications of Meloxicam vs. Tramadol

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

  • Pros and Cons of Meloxicam vs. Tramadol

    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 Opioid
    Pros
    •Extended-release tablets and ConZip capsules are taken once per day and last throughout the day.
    •Immediate-release tablets are available as a lower-cost generic.
    •Possible lower risk of misuse and dependency compared to other opioids
    Cons
    •A controlled medication, so there are special requirements to get a prescription filled
    •Must slowly lower the dose to stop the medication after long-term use to avoid withdrawal symptoms
    •Can't use in some children due to higher risk of potentially severe and life-threatening side effects
    •Not recommended while breastfeeding

  • Common Side Effects of Meloxicam vs. Tramadol

    Common Side Effects for
    •Headache
    •Diarrhea
    •Indigestion
    •Nausea
    •Stomach pain
    •Joint pain
    •Flu-like symptoms
    Common Side Effects for
    •Constipation (up to 46%)
    •Nausea (up to 40%)
    •Dizziness (up to 33%)
    •Headache (up to 32%)
    •Sleepiness (up to 25%)
    •Vomiting (up to 17%)

  • Warnings of Meloxicam vs. Tramadol

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

  • Prices with our coupons for Meloxicam vs. Tramadol

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