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Key takeaways
Meloxicam and Celebrex are NSAIDs that treat arthritis by reducing pain, inflammation, and swelling.
Celebrex works faster but doesn’t last as long as meloxicam, which is absorbed over a longer period.
Celebrex may cause fewer stomach issues than meloxicam due to its more selective action on COX-2.
- Both medications share similar side effects and risks, including potential gastrointestinal and cardiovascular problems.
Meloxicam and Celebrex are nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) used to treat arthritis. Meloxicam is a generic version of Mobic, while Celebrex is the brand name for celecoxib. Both drugs work by preventing the release of inflammatory substances called prostaglandins. By blocking their release in the body, meloxicam and Celebrex can alleviate joint pain, inflammation, and swelling.
While both NSAIDs treat joint pain, they have some differences in how they’re used and some side effects to watch out for. Other examples of NSAIDs include ibuprofen, naproxen, and diclofenac.
| Main differences between Meloxicam vs. Celebrex | ||
|---|---|---|
| Meloxicam | Celebrex | |
| Drug class | NSAID | NSAID |
| Brand/generic status | Generic version available | Brand and generic version available |
| What is the generic name?
What is the brand name? |
Generic name: Meloxicam
Brand name: Mobic |
Generic name: Celecoxib
Brand name: Celebrex |
| What form(s) does the drug come in? | Oral tablet
Oral capsule Oral suspension |
Oral capsule |
| What is the standard dosage? | 7.5 to 15 mg once daily | 200 mg once daily or 100 mg twice daily |
| How long is the typical treatment? | Short-term or long-term | Short-term or long-term |
| Who typically uses the medication? | Adults and children over 2 years old and weigh 132 lbs (60 kg) or more | Adults and children over 2 years old and weigh 22 lbs (10 kg) or more |
What are the main differences between meloxicam vs. Celebrex?
Meloxicam is a generic medication usually taken once daily as an oral tablet. However, it’s also available as an oral capsule and liquid suspension. Meloxicam can reach peak levels in the blood up to six hours after a dose. It also has a relatively long half-life of 15 to 20 hours. Therefore, it’s generally absorbed over a longer period and lasts longer than Celebrex and other NSAIDs.
Celebrex is a brand-name drug that’s taken once or twice daily, depending on the condition being treated. Peak concentrations of celecoxib are reached around three hours after administration. In addition, its half-life is around 11 hours. As a result, Celebrex works faster than meloxicam, but its effects don’t last as long.
Celebrex mainly blocks cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), an enzyme that causes pain and inflammation. Meloxicam blocks COX-2 but also affects COX-1, which makes prostaglandins that help protect the stomach lining. Meloxicam may be considered a relatively selective COX-2 inhibitor. Because Celebrex is a more selective COX-2 inhibitor, it might cause fewer stomach problems than meloxicam.
Conditions treated by meloxicam and Celebrex
Meloxicam is an FDA-approved generic medication to treat osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune type of arthritis. It can also treat juvenile rheumatoid arthritis in children two to 17 years old who weigh 132 lbs (60 kg) or more.
Like meloxicam, Celebrex is approved to treat osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. It also treats juvenile rheumatoid arthritis in children two to 17 years old who weigh 22 lbs (10 kg) or more. Celebrex can also treat arthritis of the spine (ankylosing spondylitis), menstrual cramp pain (primary dysmenorrhea), and general acute pain.
| Condition | Meloxicam | Celebrex |
| Osteoarthritis | Yes | Yes |
| Rheumatoid arthritis | Yes | Yes |
| Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis | Yes | Yes |
| Ankylosing spondylitis | Off-label | Yes |
| Primary dysmenorrhea | Off-label | Yes |
| Acute pain | Off-label | Yes |
Is meloxicam or Celebrex more effective?
Meloxicam and Celebrex are both effective at reducing inflammation, pain, and swelling caused by arthritis. The better treatment option will depend on the condition being treated, patient preferences, and treatment response.
One study compared the safety, efficacy, and cost of meloxicam and celecoxib for pain relief after total knee arthroplasty. The results showed no significant difference between the drugs in gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding. Meloxicam was also found to be a more cost-effective option than celecoxib.
In one review, COX-2 selective NSAIDs such as meloxicam and celecoxib were found to be equally effective as nonselective NSAIDs such as ibuprofen and naproxen for arthritis. However, the study showed that meloxicam might sometimes be less effective. COX-2 selective NSAIDs were also linked to fewer GI side effects than nonselective NSAIDs.
Another study showed that while COX-2 selective NSAIDs like celecoxib and meloxicam may have a lower risk of GI side effects than nonselective NSAIDs, they may have an increased risk of cardiovascular side effects, such as heart attack and stroke. However, all NSAIDs carry some level of cardiovascular risk and should only be used under medical supervision.
Always consult a healthcare provider for medical advice on the most effective pain management option.
Coverage and cost comparison of meloxicam vs. Celebrex
Meloxicam is a generic medication covered by Medicare and most insurance plans. The average retail cost of meloxicam is around $118 for a 30-day supply of 15 mg tablets. However, using a SingleCare coupon for meloxicam might save you more and allow you to pay around $4 for the same quantity.
Celebrex is a brand-name medication available in a generic version that is covered by Medicare and most insurance plans. The average retail cost of brand-name Celebrex is around $600 when purchased as a 30-day supply of 200 mg capsules. With a SingleCare discount card, you may be able to save on generic celecoxib and pay around $9.
| Meloxicam | Celebrex | |
| Typically covered by insurance? | Yes | Yes |
| Typically covered by Medicare? | Yes | Yes |
| Quantity | 30 tablets (15 mg) | 30 capsules (200 mg) |
| Typical Medicare copay | Varies | Varies |
| SingleCare cost | $4 | $9 |
Common side effects of meloxicam and Celebrex
Meloxicam and Celebrex share similar side effects. Both NSAIDs can cause side effects such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, indigestion, and flatulence (gas). Both medications can also cause headaches, dizziness, back pain, and flu-like symptoms.
More serious side effects may include altered blood pressure, heart rhythm problems, and liver disease. Although rare, allergic reactions are also possible and include trouble breathing, chest pain, swelling, and hives.
| Meloxicam | Celebrex | |||
| Side Effect | Applicable? | Frequency | Applicable? | Frequency |
| Stomach pain | Yes | 2% | Yes | 4% |
| Headache | Yes | 8% | Yes | 16% |
| Diarrhea | Yes | 8% | Yes | 6% |
| Indigestion | Yes | 5% | Yes | 9% |
| Flatulence | Yes | 3% | Yes | 2% |
| Nausea | Yes | 4% | Yes | 4% |
| Edema (fluid buildup in the limbs) | Yes | 2% | Yes | 2% |
| Sore throat | Yes | 1% | Yes | 2% |
| Flu-like symptoms | Yes | 5% | Yes | 2% |
| Upper respiratory tract infection | Yes | 2% | Yes | 8% |
| Skin rash | Yes | 3% | Yes | 2% |
| Dizziness | Yes | 3% | Yes | 2% |
| Back pain | Yes | 3% | Yes | 3% |
| Insomnia | Yes | 4% | Yes | 2% |
Frequency is not based on data from a head-to-head trial. This may not be a complete list of adverse effects that can occur. Please refer to your doctor or healthcare provider to learn more.
Source: DailyMed (Meloxicam), DailyMed (Celebrex)
Drug interactions of meloxicam vs. Celebrex
Both meloxicam and Celebrex can interact with blood thinners such as low-dose aspirin and warfarin. Other drugs like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) antidepressants may also increase bleeding risks. Taking NSAIDs with these medications may increase the risk of bleeding and stomach ulcers.
Meloxicam and Celebrex can also interact with diuretics and certain blood pressure medications, such as angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), and beta blockers. Taking NSAIDs with these drugs together may decrease blood pressure-lowering effects and increase the risk of kidney problems.
Meloxicam and Celebrex also interact with lithium, methotrexate, and cyclosporine. Taking meloxicam or Celebrex together with lithium, methotrexate, or cyclosporine can increase the toxicity of these medications.
It’s important to discuss all medications you may be taking with your doctor before taking an NSAID like meloxicam or Celebrex.
| Drug | Drug Class | Meloxicam | Celebrex |
| Aspirin | Antiplatelet | Yes | Yes |
| Coumadin (warfarin) | Anticoagulant | Yes | Yes |
| Lexapro (escitalopram)
Prozac (fluoxetine) Paxil (paroxetine) Zoloft (sertraline) |
SSRI | Yes | Yes |
| Effexor (venlafaxine)
Cymbalta (duloxetine) Pristiq (desvenlafaxine) |
SNRI | Yes | Yes |
| Zestril (lisinopril)
Vasotec (enalapril) Lotensin (benazepril) |
ACE inhibitor | Yes | Yes |
| Cozaar (losartan)
Diovan (valsartan) Avapro (irbesartan) |
ARB | Yes | Yes |
| Inderal (propranolol)
Lopressor (metoprolol) Tenormin (atenolol) |
Beta-blocker | Yes | Yes |
| Lasix (furosemide)
Microzide (hydrochlorothiazide) |
Diuretic | Yes | Yes |
| Lithobid (lithium) | Mood stabilizer | Yes | Yes |
| Trexall (methotrexate) | Antimetabolite | Yes | Yes |
| Neoral (cyclosporine) | Immunosuppressant | Yes | Yes |
Consult a healthcare professional for other possible drug interactions
Warnings of meloxicam and Celebrex
Meloxicam and Celebrex both carry warnings about an increased risk of GI issues. These NSAIDs may lead to stomach ulcers or bleeding in the stomach or intestines. Your risk may be higher if you have a history of stomach ulcers or other GI conditions.
Additionally, they can also raise the risk of cardiovascular problems, such as heart attacks and strokes. If you have a history of high blood pressure, heart disease, or other related conditions, you may have a higher risk.
Both meloxicam and Celebrex are not recommended right before or after coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery. Using these medications around the time of surgery can increase the risk of serious heart problems.
Meloxicam and Celebrex need to be watched closely in people with kidney or liver problems because they can make these conditions worse. These medications can also make asthma worse, especially if it’s related to aspirin sensitivity.
It is not recommended to use NSAIDs while pregnant because they can lead to kidney problems in the baby and early closure of a vital blood vessel in the baby’s heart, especially at 20 weeks or later in pregnancy.
Frequently asked questions about meloxicam vs. Celebrex
Are meloxicam and Celebrex the same?
Meloxicam and Celebrex belong to the same class of medications called NSAIDs and have similar mechanisms of action. However, they are not the same. They have different uses and may be taken differently depending on the condition being treated.
Can you take meloxicam and Celebrex together for pain?
You shouldn’t take meloxicam and Celebrex together without medical advice. Both are NSAIDs, and using them at the same time can increase the risk of side effects like stomach ulcers, bleeding, and kidney problems.
Is meloxicam or Celebrex better?
Meloxicam and Celebrex are both effective, depending on their use. Meloxicam may be preferred for its once-daily dosing. However, choosing between meloxicam and Celebrex depends on individual needs and health conditions. It’s best to discuss with your prescribing doctor which one might be more suitable for you.
Can I use meloxicam or Celebrex while pregnant?
Meloxicam and Celebrex should be avoided in women who are pregnant. Taking NSAIDs during the third trimester can increase the risk of heart problems and other complications in the baby.
Can I use meloxicam or Celebrex with alcohol?
No. It is not recommended to use meloxicam or Celebrex with alcohol. Doing so can increase the risk of bleeding or stomach ulcers.
Sources
- Mobic highlights of prescribing information, U.S. Food and Drug Administration (2021)
- Drug class review on cyclo-oxygenase (COX)-2 inhibitors and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), Oregon Health & Science University (2006)
- Celebrex highlights of prescribing information, U.S. Food and Drug Administration (2021)
- Meloxicam versus celecoxib for postoperative analgesia after total knee arthroplasty: Safety, efficacy and cost, Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (2022)
- Cyclooxygenase-2 selective non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (etodolac, meloxicam, celecoxib, rofecoxib, etoricoxib, valdecoxib and lumiracoxib) for osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis: a systematic review and economic evaluation, Health Technology Assessment (2008)
- A comprehensive review of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug use in the elderly, Aging and Disease (2018)
- Guidelines to help reduce the side effects of COX-2-specific drugs like celecoxib (Celebrex), Hospital for Special Surgery (2022)
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and the gastrointestinal tract, Clinical Medicine (2021)
- Does taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) increase the risk of heart attack or stroke?, Mayo Clinic (2024)
- FDA recommends avoiding use of NSAIDs in pregnancy at 20 weeks or later because they can result in low amniotic fluid, U.S. Food and Drug Administration (2022)