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Compare Nabumetone vs. Meloxicam

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

Key takeaways

Nabumetone (Relafen) and meloxicam (Mobic, Anjeso) are both prescription nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) used to treat pain and inflammation associated with arthritis. They share similar FDA-approved uses for conditions like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. However, meloxicam is also approved for juvenile rheumatoid arthritis and moderate-to-severe pain when given as an injection. Nabumetone is typically taken as an oral tablet once or twice daily, whereas meloxicam is available in various forms, including capsules, tablets, oral suspension, and injection, and is typically taken once daily. Both medications are available as a lower-cost generic. Common side effects for both include stomach upset and diarrhea and carry risks of serious side effects like heart attack, stroke, and stomach bleeding. They should not be combined with other NSAIDs and are not recommended during pregnancy.

  • Nabumetone
    Meloxicam
  • Nabumetone
    Meloxicam

  • Summary of Nabumetone vs. Meloxicam

    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.

    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.

  • Indications of Nabumetone vs. Meloxicam

    Indications for
    •Rheumatoid arthritis (RA)
    •Osteoarthritis (OA)
    Indications for
    •Pain from osteoarthritis (capsules, tablets, and oral suspension)
    •Pain from rheumatoid arthritis and juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA) (tablets and oral suspension)
    •Moderate-to-severe pain (Anjeso injection)

  • Pros and Cons of Nabumetone vs. Meloxicam

    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
    Pros and Const for NSAID
    Pros
    •Only taken once a day
    •Available as a lower-cost generic
    •Causes less stomach upset than some other NSAIDs
    •Works well to treat pain caused by different types of arthritis
    Cons
    •Available only by prescription
    •Not safe during pregnancy
    •Might not be the best option if you're 65 years or older, or have kidney, heart, liver, or bleeding problems
    •Different formulations (e.g., capsules, liquid) might not be able to be substituted for one another

  • Common Side Effects of Nabumetone vs. Meloxicam

    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%)
    Common Side Effects for

    Meloxicam capsules, tablets, and oral solution:

    •Headache (up to 8%)
    •Diarrhea (up to 8%)
    •Joint pain (up to 6%)
    •Urinary tract infections (up to 6%)
    •Flu-like symptoms (up to 6%)
    •Upset stomach (up to 5%)
    •Swelling (up to 5%)

    Meloxicam (Anjeso) injection:

    •Constipation (8%)
    •Liver damage (3%)
    •Low red blood cells (2%)

  • Warnings of Nabumetone vs. Meloxicam

    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
    Common Side Effects for
    •Stomach bleeding
    •Heart attack and stroke
    •High blood pressure and heart failure
    •Liver problems
    •Kidney damage and high potassium levels
    •Severe allergic reactions
    •Severe asthma attack
    •Harm to unborn babies

  • Prices with our coupons for Nabumetone vs. Meloxicam

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    Learn more about Meloxicam

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