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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). 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 of Nabumetone vs. Meloxicam

    Indications for
    •Rheumatoid arthritis (RA)
    •Osteoarthritis (OA)
    Indications for
    •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 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
    •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 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
    •Headache
    •Diarrhea
    •Indigestion
    •Nausea
    •Stomach pain
    •Joint pain
    •Flu-like symptoms

  • 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
    •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

  • Prices with our coupons for Nabumetone vs. Meloxicam

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    Learn more about Meloxicam

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