Piroxicam vs. Meloxicam for Rheumatoid Arthritis and Osteoarthritis: Important Differences and Potential Risks.

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)

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Meloxicam

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Summary for Piroxicam

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.

Indications for Piroxicam

Pain from osteoarthritis
Pain from rheumatoid arthritis

Pros and Cons for Piroxicam

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.

Common Side Effects for Piroxicam

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.

Warnings for Piroxicam

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

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)