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Compare Toradol vs. Meloxicam

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

Key takeaways

Ketorolac and meloxicam are both non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) used to relieve pain. They work by blocking proteins called cyclooxygenase (COX) that cause inflammation, pain, and swelling. However, they differ in several ways. Ketorolac is primarily used for short-term, moderate to severe pain in adults and is available as an oral tablet, injection, or nasal spray (Sprix). It also comes as eye drops (Acular, Acuvail) that may be used after corneal or cataract surgery. It is typically used for a maximum of 5 days due to the risk of severe side effects like heart attack and stomach ulcers. Meloxicam, on the other hand, is used for pain from osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, and is available as a capsule, tablet, liquid, or injection. It is usually taken once daily and can be used for longer periods. Both medications are available as lower-cost generics. Common side effects of ketorolac include stomach pain, nausea, and headache, while meloxicam can cause diarrhea, joint pain, and stomach upset. Both medications can interact with other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and blood thinners, increasing the risk of serious side effects like stomach bleeding and heart problems.

  • Ketorolac (Toradol)
    Meloxicam
  • Ketorolac (Toradol)
    Meloxicam

  • Summary of Toradol vs. Meloxicam

    Summary for NSAID
    Prescription only

    Ketorolac (Toradol) is a prescription non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It provides pain relief by blocking certain chemicals in your body that cause pain and inflammation. But ketorolac (Toradol) is meant for short-term use only due to the risk for severe side effects, such as heart attack and stomach ulcers. Typically, ketorolac (Toradol) is first given as an injection in a hospital or clinic setting. After that, you'll likely continue treatment with the oral tablets, which are taken every 4 to 6 hours for a maximum of 5 days. Your care team will help you transition to a safer alternative pain medication as soon as possible.

    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 Toradol vs. Meloxicam

    Indications for
    •Short-term, moderate to severe pain in adults
    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 Toradol vs. Meloxicam

    Pros and Const for NSAID
    Pros
    •Works well to treat short-term pain
    •Available as tablets and as an injection
    •Has been shown to work as well as morphine for treating pain due to certain conditions, so might be a good option for people who can't take opioid pain medications
    Cons
    •Not recommended during pregnancy
    •Might not be the best option if you're 65 years or older, or have kidney, heart, liver, or bleeding problems
    •Can only use for up to 5 days
    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 Toradol vs. Meloxicam

    Common Side Effects for

    The following side effects occurred in at least 10% of people during clinical studies:

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

  • Warnings of Toradol vs. Meloxicam

    Common Side Effects for
    •Serious bleeds
    •Heart attack and stroke
    •Kidney damage
    •Don't take with other NSAIDs
    •Higher risk of serious side effects
    •High blood pressure and heart failure
    •Liver damage
    •Severe allergic reactions
    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 Toradol vs. Meloxicam

    Learn more about Ketorolac
    Learn more about Meloxicam

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