Meloxicam vs. Tramadol for Rheumatoid Arthritis and Pain: Important Differences and Potential Risks.

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

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Tramadol

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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

Osteoarthritis (OA) - capsules, tablets, and oral liquid
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) - tablets and oral liquid
Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA) - tablets and oral liquid

Pros and Cons for Meloxicam

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)

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 Tramadol

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 for Tramadol

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

Pros and Cons for Tramadol

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