The primary difference between meloxicam and ibuprofen is that meloxicam can only be prescribed by a doctor and is typically used for pain management associated with arthritis. Ibuprofen is available over-the-counter and by prescription and is commonly used to treat a much wider range of aches and pains.

Meloxicam: What Is It And How Does It Work?

Meloxicam is a member of a class of drugs known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs for short. Also known as its brand name Mobic, meloxicam is available by prescription only and is most commonly prescribed for arthritis, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. [1]

Similar to other NSAIDs, meloxicam works by blocking a substance known as prostaglandins that blocks pain signals. This is known as its mechanism of action. Meloxicam is an effective pain reliever, but has been associated with liver problems in rare cases. [2]

Meloxicam Side Effects

Aside from the risk of liver damage, there are other side effects of meloxicam to be aware of. Some of these adverse effects include: [3]

• Flu-like symptoms
• Stomach pain due to gas or constipation
• Nausea
• Back pain
• Painful urination
• Sore throat
• Diarrhea
• Increased heart rate
• Fatigue
• Weight gain

If you experience serious side effects or those that persist for more than a few days, please notify your healthcare provider immediately.

Taking Meloxicam

As with all medications, you should only take meloxicam as prescribed by a doctor. Meloxicam is available in both liquid and pill forms, including tablets and capsules. The dosage may depend on the specific condition the medication is being used to treat (e.g., osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis), and it may be administered in different strengths, ranging from 0.125 mg for children to 15 mg for osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis in adults. [4] Never take a higher dose than prescribed without consulting your doctor first.

Meloxicam Overdose

Although meloxicam is a pain reliever that’s available by prescription only, the potential for abuse and addiction with this drug is low. Still, it’s possible to overdose on meloxicam if you don’t take the medication exactly as prescribed.

Some signs of meloxicam overdose to watch for include: [5]

• Drowsiness and/or fatigue
• Nausea and/or vomiting
• Stomach pain
• Bloody or black stools
• Bloody vomit or vomit that resembles coffee grounds
• Seizures
• Trouble breathing
• Coma

In case of an overdose, call the poison control helpline at 1-800-222-1222 or 911.

Other Dangers of Meloxicam

Like all NSAIDs, meloxicam carries the risk of dangerous complications like heart attack, stroke, and stomach ulcers. The following are some potential adverse health concerns to consider before taking or if prescribed Meloxicam.

Dangerous Drug Interactions

There could be an increased risk of complications if you take meloxicam with other substances, including alcohol, tobacco, and antidepressants, among many others. There is a long list of potential drug interactions associated with meloxicam and other NSAIDs, so be sure to talk to your doctor about any other medications you’re taking, including herbal supplements and over-the-counter or recreational drugs. [6]

Who Should Avoid Meloxicam?

Before you take meloxicam or other NSAIDs, you should tell your healthcare provider about any other conditions you have a history of, including: [7]

• High cholesterol
• High blood pressure
• Heart disease
• Stomach ulcers
• Stomach bleeding
• Asthma
• Kidney problems or liver disease
• Currently pregnant or breastfeeding

Stop taking meloxicam and call your doctor if you have heartburn, stomach pain, bloody vomit, vomit that resembles coffee grounds, or bloody or black stools.

If you’re pregnant or plan to be pregnant soon, always tell your doctor before taking any new medications, prescription or otherwise.

Ibuprofen: What Is It And How Does It Work?

Like meloxicam, ibuprofen is also part of the class of drugs known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDS. However, there are important differences to be aware of. For example, ibuprofen is available over the counter as well as by prescription and can be taken for a wider range of conditions, including mild aches and pains, headaches, menstrual cramps, back pain, toothaches, and other similar symptoms. Ibuprofen may also be recommended for moderate pain associated with arthritis. [8]

Common brand names for ibuprofen include Advil, Midol, and Motrin. Other products may include ibuprofen as well as other active ingredients.

Ibuprofen Side Effects

Since they’re both NSAIDs, ibuprofen and meloxicam share many of the same side effects, but others may be exclusive to ibuprofen, such as nervousness and ringing in the ears. Some common side effects related to ibuprofen use include: [9]

• Dizziness
• Tinnitus
• Bloating
• Itching
• Constipation
• Shortness of breath
• Nervousness
• Flu-like symptoms
• Weight gain
• Back pain
• Fatigue
• Hoarseness

If your side effects are severe or persistent, stop taking ibuprofen and contact your doctor immediately.

Taking Ibuprofen

Ibuprofen, also commonly known as Advil or Motrin, is available in both liquid and pill form, including capsules and tablets.

Even though ibuprofen is available over the counter, it’s always a good idea to tell your healthcare provider about any medications you’re taking. If you have a prescription for ibuprofen, take it only as prescribed. Otherwise, pay close attention to the package insert.

Dosages for ibuprofen can vary widely, depending on your age, weight, and the condition being treated. The recommended daily dose of ibuprofen can range from 400 mg to 3200 mg per day. [10]

Ibuprofen Overdose

Even though NSAIDs like ibuprofen aren’t usually associated with addiction or drug abuse, it’s still possible to overdose on ibuprofen. Thus, it’s important to be aware of any signs of ibuprofen overdose in yourself or a loved one: [11]

• Extreme fatigue
• Drowsiness
• Nausea or vomiting
• Breathing problems
• Dizziness
• Uncontrollable, rapid eye movements
• Blue mouth, lips, or nose
• Stomach pain

If you suspect an overdose, call 911 or the poison control helpline at 1-800-222-1222.

Other Dangers of Ibuprofen

As an NSAID, ibuprofen can cause heart attacks, strokes, or stomach ulcers in rare cases. Certain populations may be more vulnerable to these serious complications.

Dangerous Drug Interactions

Even though it’s an OTC medication, you should still tell your doctor about any other drugs you’re taking before beginning an ibuprofen regimen. This includes any other over-the-counter medications, herbal supplements, prescription medications, and recreational drugs. There could be dangerous consequences of mixing ibuprofen with other substances, including alcohol, tobacco, certain antidepressants, and blood thinners, for example. [12]

Who Should Avoid Ibuprofen?

Certain people may be at a higher risk of serious side effects and complications from taking ibuprofen, including: [13]

• People 75 years old or older
• Women who are pregnant or plan to become pregnant
• People taking other painkillers
• People with lupus, asthma, phenylketonuria, liver or kidney disease
• People with high blood pressure or cardiovascular disease
• People with high cholesterol or diabetes

Stop taking ibuprofen and call your doctor if you have heartburn, stomach pain, bloody vomit, vomit that resembles coffee grounds, or bloody or black stools.

Should I Take Ibuprofen or Meloxicam?

Only a doctor can tell you whether it’s safe to take ibuprofen or meloxicam. However, both of these drugs may be safer alternatives to more potent pain relievers that carry a high risk of physical dependence and substance abuse, such as opioids like oxycodone.