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Compare Piroxicam vs. Meloxicam

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

Key takeaways

Piroxicam (Feldene) and meloxicam (Mobic, Anjeso) are both nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) used to treat pain from osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. They work by blocking proteins that cause inflammation, pain, and swelling. However, they have some differences. Piroxicam is available as an oral capsule and is typically taken once daily, while meloxicam comes in various forms, including capsules, tablets, liquid, and an injectable form that's used in the hospital. It can take 2 to 3 months to get the full effects of piroxicam. Both medications can cause serious side effects like stomach bleeding and heart problems, but meloxicam is thought to have fewer kidney and stomach side effects than many other NSAIDs. Do not take other NSAIDs, including OTC NSAIDs like ibuprofen (Motrin) or naproxen (Aleve) while you are taking either piroxicam or meloxicam.

  • Piroxicam (Feldene)
    Meloxicam
  • Piroxicam (Feldene)
    Meloxicam

  • Summary of Piroxicam vs. Meloxicam

    Summary for NSAID
    Prescription only

    Piroxicam (Feldene) is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that works well to relieve symptoms of arthritis, such as joint pain, swelling, and stiffness. It's a capsule that's taken by mouth, typically once daily. Possible side effects include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and rash.

    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 Piroxicam vs. Meloxicam

    Indications for
    •Pain from osteoarthritis
    •Pain from rheumatoid arthritis
    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 Piroxicam vs. Meloxicam

    Pros and Const for NSAID
    Pros
    •Can be taken once daily
    •Taken by mouth
    •Available as a lower-cost generic
    Cons
    •Not available as a liquid
    •Can take 2 to 3 months to get the full effects
    •Can cause serious complications, including stomach bleeding and kidney problems, if taken for a long period of time.
    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 Piroxicam vs. Meloxicam

    Common Side Effects for
    •Nausea and vomiting
    •Constipation
    •Passing gas
    •Stomach pain
    •Diarrhea
    •Headache
    •Dizziness
    •Swelling or fluid buildup
    •Rash
    •Ringing in the ears

    Please note: The side effects below were reported by up to 10% of people who took piroxicam (Feldene) in clinical trials.

    Common Side Effects for
    •Headache
    •Diarrhea
    •Indigestion
    •Nausea
    •Stomach pain
    •Joint pain
    •Flu-like symptoms

  • Warnings of Piroxicam vs. Meloxicam

    Common Side Effects for
    •Heart attack and stroke
    •Stomach bleeding and ulcers
    •High blood pressure and heart failure
    •Kidney damage and high potassium levels
    •Liver damage
    •Severe allergic reactions
    •Not for use in pregnant or breastfeeding females
    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 Piroxicam vs. Meloxicam

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