Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Meloxicam (Mobic) and tramadol (Ultram, ConZip, Qdolo) are both prescription medications used to manage pain, but they belong to different drug classes and work in different ways. Meloxicam is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that helps reduce inflammation and pain by blocking certain proteins in your body. It is available in various forms, including capsules, tablets, and injections. Tramadol, on the other hand, is an opioid that changes how your brain perceives pain and also increases levels of serotonin and norepinephrine. Unlike meloxicam, tramadol is a controlled substance due to its potential for misuse and dependency. Meloxicam is generally taken once a day, while tramadol can be taken multiple times a day depending on whether you use the immediate-release or extended-release form. Meloxicam may cause stomach bleeds, while tramadol can cause serious side effects like dangerously slow breathing and seizures. Both medications (particularly meloxicam) may need to be avoided during pregnancy. Both medications have generic forms available, making them more affordable options.
Meloxicam
Tramadol
Meloxicam
Tramadol
Summary of Mobic vs. Conzip
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
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.