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Key takeaways
Meloxicam is a partially selective NSAID, prescribed once daily, primarily for arthritis treatment, whereas ibuprofen is a non-selective NSAID, available over the counter, requiring multiple doses for pain relief.
Meloxicam is considered more potent than ibuprofen, potentially offering effective pain management with fewer gastrointestinal side effects, but it requires a prescription.
Both medications can interact with other drugs, increasing risks of stomach ulcers and bleeding and impacting blood pressure and kidney function, necessitating consultation with healthcare providers for safe use.
Despite their efficacy in pain and inflammation management, both meloxicam and ibuprofen carry risks of serious side effects, including cardiovascular and gastrointestinal issues, and their use should be carefully monitored, especially in patients with pre-existing conditions.
Drug overview & main differences | Conditions treated | Dosage | Efficacy | Insurance coverage and cost comparison | Side effects | Drug interactions | Warnings | FAQ
If you experience symptoms of arthritis, such as joint pain and stiffness, you may want to take a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). Meloxicam and ibuprofen are two commonly used NSAIDs for pain from arthritis. NSAIDs work by decreasing the production of prostaglandins, which are substances that cause pain, fever, and inflammation in the body.
Although meloxicam and ibuprofen work in similar ways, they have some differences. For instance, they decrease prostaglandin production by blocking cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes in different ways. Two main types of COX enzymes produce prostaglandins: COX-1 and COX-2. Although both COX enzymes can produce prostaglandins that promote inflammation, the COX-1 enzyme also produces prostaglandins that can protect the stomach lining from digestive acid. Non-selective NSAIDs that block both COX enzymes may carry a higher risk of stomach ulcers than partially selective NSAIDs.
What are the main differences between meloxicam vs. ibuprofen?
Meloxicam is a partially selective NSAID that selectively blocks the COX-2 enzyme. It is a generic medication that can only be obtained with a prescription. Meloxicam is also known by its brand name, Mobic. It is approved to treat different forms of arthritis in adults and children aged two years and older, and it is typically prescribed as a once-daily pill.
Ibuprofen is a non-selective NSAID that blocks both COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes. It can be purchased over the counter (OTC) or with a prescription. Ibuprofen may be used for pain, inflammation, and fever in adults and children aged six months and older. Brand names of ibuprofen include Advil, Motrin, and Midol. Ibuprofen typically needs to be taken multiple times per day for pain control.
RELATED: Meloxicam vs. Celebrex | Nabumetone vs. ibuprofen
| Main differences between meloxicam and ibuprofen | ||
|---|---|---|
| Meloxicam | Ibuprofen | |
| Drug class | Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) | Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) |
| Brand/generic status | Brand and generic version available | Brand and generic version available |
| What is the brand name? | Mobic | Advil, Motrin, Midol |
| What form(s) does the drug come in? | Oral tablet Liquid suspension |
Oral tablet Oral capsule Liquid suspension |
| What is the standard dosage? | 7.5 to 15 mg daily | 200 to 400 mg every 4 to 6 hours |
| How long is the typical treatment? | Long-term | Not longer than 10 days or as instructed by your doctor |
| Who typically uses the medication? | Adults and children aged 2 years and older | Adults and children aged 6 months and older |
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Conditions treated by meloxicam vs. ibuprofen
Meloxicam is FDA-approved to treat osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis that affects millions of people each year. Meloxicam is also approved to treat rheumatoid arthritis in adults and children (juvenile rheumatoid arthritis) aged two years and older.
Ibuprofen is FDA-approved to treat osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. In addition, ibuprofen is approved to treat menstrual cramps (dysmenorrhea) and mild to moderate pain from muscle aches, toothaches, and back discomfort. It is safe and effective for adults and children aged six months and older.
NSAIDs should be taken with the medical advice of a healthcare professional. Consult a doctor if you experience any of the following conditions.
| Condition | Meloxicam | Ibuprofen |
| Osteoarthritis | Yes | Yes |
| Rheumatoid arthritis | Yes | Yes |
| Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis | Yes | Yes |
| Dysmenorrhea | Off-label | Yes |
| Mild to moderate pain from tooth, back, and muscle aches | Off-label | Yes |
| Fever | Off-label | Yes |
Dosage of meloxicam and ibuprofen
Meloxicam is a long-acting NSAID that can be taken once daily with or without food. The usual starting dose for osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis in adults is 7.5 mg once daily, although the dose may be increased to 15 mg once daily. For juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, the usual dose in children weighing equal to or more than 60 kg (around 132 lbs) is 7.5 mg once daily. The maximum daily dose of meloxicam is 15 mg per day in adults and 7.5 mg per day in children.
Ibuprofen is a short-acting NSAID that is usually taken every four to six hours. The standard dosage of OTC ibuprofen is 200 to 400 mg every four to six hours as needed. However, prescription-strength ibuprofen can be taken as 1200 to 3200 mg per day divided into several doses. The maximum dosage of ibuprofen per day in adults is 1200 mg (OTC) or 3200 mg (prescription strength).
In children and infants, the exact dosage of ibuprofen can vary depending on body weight and drug form. Be sure to read the medication guide or consult your healthcare provider for more information on how to give ibuprofen to a child.
Is meloxicam or ibuprofen more effective?
The effectiveness of meloxicam and ibuprofen has not yet been compared for arthritis in a head-to-head trial. However, the effectiveness of meloxicam and ibuprofen, as well as acetaminophen, for dental pain were compared in one clinical trial of around 300 patients. Meloxicam, ibuprofen, and acetaminophen were given to patients one hour before separator placement. No significant differences in pain control were found between the drugs. However, the study found that meloxicam was effective with fewer gastric side effects.
One meta-analysis compared several NSAIDs, including meloxicam, ibuprofen, naproxen, diclofenac, nabumetone, and oxaprozin for arthritic pain in the knees and hips. The study also evaluated the use of opioids, which are stronger pain medications than NSAIDs, for osteoarthritis and found the risk of adverse effects was highest with opioids. Results also showed that meloxicam is a more effective NSAID than ibuprofen, although topical diclofenac may be a preferred first-line option for knee osteoarthritis.
While the effectiveness of NSAIDs is comparable, other factors should be considered, such as potential side effects, price, and dosing. Meloxicam is considered more potent than ibuprofen and can be taken once daily. However, prescription-strength ibuprofen may be more comparable to meloxicam than OTC ibuprofen.
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Coverage and cost comparison of meloxicam vs. ibuprofen
Meloxicam is covered by most Medicare and insurance plans. As a generic prescription drug, meloxicam can be purchased for an average retail cost of around $100 for thirty 15 mg tablets. When you purchase meloxicam from a pharmacy, you may be able to use a SingleCare meloxicam coupon to lower your overall cash price. The exact price you pay for meloxicam depends on your insurance coverage, the dosage and quantity prescribed, and the pharmacy location.
Prescription-strength ibuprofen is often covered by insurance plans. However, OTC ibuprofen is usually not covered by insurance plans. Ibuprofen is generally a cheaper drug than meloxicam since it can be purchased over the counter. Ibuprofen can cost an average retail price of around $30 for thirty, 800 mg tablets. Using a SingleCare coupon for ibuprofen may reduce the cost at participating pharmacies that take SingleCare discount cards or coupons. The exact price you pay for ibuprofen depends on your insurance coverage, dosage and quantity prescribed, and the pharmacy location.
| Meloxicam | Ibuprofen | |
| Typically covered by insurance? | Yes | Yes |
| Typically covered by Medicare? | Yes | Yes |
| Standard dosage | 7.5 mg (30 tablets) | 400 mg (30 tablets) |
| Typical Medicare copay | $0-$10 | $0-$22 |
| SingleCare cost | $12-$15 | $1-$3 |
Common side effects of meloxicam vs. ibuprofen
Meloxicam and ibuprofen share many of the same side effects of other NSAIDs. Like most NSAIDs, meloxicam and ibuprofen can have gastrointestinal (GI) side effects such as an upset stomach, indigestion, diarrhea, nausea, and gas (flatulence). Common side effects of these NSAIDs also include headaches, dizziness, rash, and edema (swelling of the hands and/or feet). In addition, side effects of meloxicam include flu-like symptoms and sore throat (pharyngitis).
Serious adverse effects of meloxicam and ibuprofen can include cardiovascular events, such as heart attacks and strokes, and GI events, such as stomach ulcers and bleeding. Consult your healthcare provider if side effects worsen or persist while taking an NSAID.
| Meloxicam | Ibuprofen | |||
| Side Effect | Applicable? | Frequency | Applicable? | Frequency |
| Stomach pain | Yes | 20% | Yes | 1%-3% |
| Diarrhea | Yes | 8% | Yes | 1%-3% |
| Indigestion | Yes | 5% | Yes | 1%-3% |
| Flatulence | Yes | 3% | Yes | 1%-3% |
| Nausea | Yes | 4% | Yes | 3%-9% |
| Edema | Yes | 2% | Yes | 1%-3% |
| Flu-like symptoms | Yes | 5% | No | – |
| Dizziness | Yes | 3% | Yes | 3%-9% |
| Headache | Yes | 8% | Yes | 1%-3% |
| Sore throat | Yes | 1% | No | – |
| Rash | Yes | 3% | Yes | 3%-9% |
This may not be a complete list. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for possible side effects.
Source: DailyMed (Meloxicam), DailyMed (Ibuprofen)
Drug interactions of meloxicam vs. ibuprofen
Taking certain drugs with meloxicam or ibuprofen can increase the risk of stomach ulcers, perforations, or bleeding. These drugs include certain blood thinners, such as anticoagulants and antiplatelet agents, as well as SSRIs and SNRIs. Taking NSAIDs with a low-dose aspirin can also increase the risk of stomach ulcers.
Meloxicam and ibuprofen can also interact with medications that treat high blood pressure. Taking NSAIDs may decrease the effects of high blood pressure medications, such as ACE inhibitors, ARBs, diuretics, and beta blockers. NSAIDs and ACE inhibitors or ARBs can also interact to cause kidney problems.
Those who take lithium or methotrexate may be at a higher risk of lithium or methotrexate toxicity if they are also taking NSAIDs. NSAIDs can affect how lithium and methotrexate are processed in the body, which can lead to high lithium or methotrexate levels in the body.
| Drug | Drug Class | Meloxicam | Ibuprofen |
| Aspirin | Antiplatelet | Yes | Yes |
| Warfarin | Anticoagulant | Yes | Yes |
| Sertraline | Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressant | Yes | Yes |
| Venlafaxine | Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) antidepressant | Yes | Yes |
| Lisinopril | Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors | Yes | Yes |
| Losartan | Angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) | Yes | Yes |
| Carvedilol | Beta-blockers | Yes | Yes |
| Furosemide | Diuretics | Yes | Yes |
| Lithium | Mood stabilizer | Yes | Yes |
| Methotrexate | Antimetabolite | Yes | Yes |
| Cyclosporine | Immunosuppressant | Yes | Yes |
| Digoxin | Cardiac glycoside | Yes | Yes |
This may not be a complete list of all possible drug interactions. Consult a doctor with all medications you may be taking.
Warnings of meloxicam vs. ibuprofen
NSAIDs can increase blood pressure and clots that can block the blood vessels, leading to an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes. NSAIDs can also cause other heart problems, such as worsening heart failure. People with a history of heart disease or those taking high doses of NSAIDs may be at a higher risk of cardiovascular events, such as heart attacks and strokes. Meloxicam and ibuprofen should not be taken right before or after a coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery.
Meloxicam and ibuprofen can cause an increased risk of adverse GI effects, such as stomach ulcers and bleeding. NSAIDs should be avoided in the elderly and people with a history of peptic ulcer disease or bleeding in the stomach or intestines. Studies show that meloxicam carries a higher risk of GI events than ibuprofen. However, the dose of the NSAID can play a role in the risk of serious GI side effects.
Meloxicam and ibuprofen may cause or worsen liver and kidney problems. Liver and kidney can occur with higher doses over time. Meloxicam and ibuprofen are not recommended in people with severe kidney disease. The use of meloxicam or ibuprofen should be monitored in people with liver disease.
A severe allergic reaction is possible after taking meloxicam or ibuprofen. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience signs or symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as severe rash, hives, trouble breathing, or swelling of the face or throat.
NSAIDs should be avoided in pregnant women at around 20 weeks or later in pregnancy. Taking an NSAID during pregnancy may lead to reduced amniotic fluid and other complications.
Frequently asked questions about meloxicam vs. ibuprofen
What is meloxicam?
Meloxicam is a prescription NSAID used to treat osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. The brand name for meloxicam is Mobic. It is usually prescribed to be taken once daily.
What is ibuprofen?
Ibuprofen is an NSAID that is available in OTC strengths for mild to moderate pain and fever. It is also available in prescription-strength doses to treat pain and inflammation from arthritis. Ibuprofen is usually taken multiple times per day for pain control.
Are meloxicam vs. ibuprofen the same?
Meloxicam and ibuprofen are not the same. Meloxicam is a once-daily medication that can only be obtained with a prescription. Ibuprofen is an OTC medication that is typically taken every four to six hours as needed for pain. However, ibuprofen is also available in prescription strengths. Meloxicam is a partially selective NSAID, while ibuprofen is a non-selective NSAID.
Is meloxicam or ibuprofen better?
Meloxicam and ibuprofen are both effective for pain and inflammation. However, meloxicam is considered a more potent NSAID than ibuprofen. For some people, meloxicam may be preferred for its once-daily dosing. It’s important to keep in mind that the effectiveness of an NSAID can also depend on the dosage prescribed. Consult a healthcare provider for the best treatment option for you.
Does meloxicam or ibuprofen have a lower risk for gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding?
The risk of GI bleeding is based on the COX selectivity of an NSAID. The COX-1 enzyme produces prostaglandins that can help protect the stomach lining. Non-selective NSAIDs that block both the COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes may carry a higher risk of GI bleeding than selective NSAIDs that mainly block the COX-2 enzyme. As a partially selective NSAID, meloxicam may have fewer GI side effects than ibuprofen. However, some studies suggest that the risk of GI effects is higher with meloxicam than with ibuprofen. Celecoxib, known by the brand name Celebrex, is reported to have the least risk of GI side effects than other NSAIDs.
Is meloxicam or ibuprofen less harmful to the heart?
The risk of a heart attack is relatively similar across most NSAIDs. Taking long-term, high doses of NSAIDs may have a higher risk of heart problems than low doses, although the use of NSAIDs for as short as seven days has been linked to heart attacks. Studies suggest meloxicam and ibuprofen have a similar increased risk of heart attacks in high doses and in people with pre-existing heart disease.
Is meloxicam or ibuprofen less harmful to the kidneys?
Meloxicam and ibuprofen, like other NSAIDs, can cause damage to the kidney. People with kidney disease may be at an increased risk of kidney problems when taking an NSAID. Clinical studies in humans and animals have found that the risk of kidney problems may be higher with ibuprofen than with meloxicam.
Is meloxicam or ibuprofen less harmful to the liver?
Up to 15% of people taking an NSAID, including meloxicam or ibuprofen, may experience elevated liver enzymes. However, severe liver disease or liver failure from NSAIDs is considered a rare occurrence. No clinical trials have directly compared the liver toxicity of meloxicam to that of ibuprofen. Still, the use of either NSAID may need to be monitored in people with liver problems.
Does meloxicam or ibuprofen have a lower risk for stroke?
NSAIDs may be linked to an increased risk of strokes, in addition to an increased risk of heart attacks. The risk of a stroke may be higher in people with heart disease than in those without heart data. There is not enough data to definitively identify the exact risk for stroke with NSAIDs. However, studies have shown that meloxicam and diclofenac may carry a higher risk of stroke than other NSAIDs. The FDA has also strengthened its warning that NSAIDs can cause strokes and heart attacks.
Can I use meloxicam or ibuprofen while pregnant?
The FDA labels recommend avoiding NSAIDs, such as meloxicam and ibuprofen, after 30 weeks of gestation. However, the FDA has recently warned that the use of NSAIDs may cause complications in an unborn baby after only 20 weeks. If you are pregnant, it’s important to discuss the use of NSAIDs or other pain medications with a doctor.
Can I use meloxicam and ibuprofen with alcohol?
It is not recommended to drink alcohol while taking NSAIDs like meloxicam and ibuprofen. Alcohol can act as a blood thinner and increase the risk of bleeding with NSAIDs.
Can you take meloxicam with ibuprofen?
Meloxicam and ibuprofen are part of the same drug class with similar side effects. Taking meloxicam and ibuprofen together could increase the risk of serious side effects, such as stomach ulcers. If you feel that your medication is not controlling your pain, you may want to try a different medication. Consult a healthcare provider to determine your potential treatment options.
Does meloxicam make you sleepy?
Sleepiness is not a common side effect of meloxicam. The most common side effects of meloxicam include abdominal pain, nausea, dizziness, and headache. Sleepiness or drowsiness after taking meloxicam could be a sign of a serious problem, such as an overdose. A meloxicam overdose requires immediate medical attention to treat.
Is meloxicam a strong painkiller?
Meloxicam is a potent painkiller for arthritis, and it is FDA-approved to treat pain and inflammation from osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. Meloxicam is a strong NSAID that can be taken once daily.