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Key takeaways
Meloxicam is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to treat symptoms of pain and inflammation, such as swelling or stiffness from different forms of arthritis.
Many other NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen, naproxen, and celecoxib, can be used to treat pain and inflammation, each with different side effect considerations.
Non-NSAID pain relievers like acetaminophen or topical capsaicin creams may offer alternative pain relief, especially for localized pain.
Meloxicam, a medication previously known by the brand name Mobic, is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to treat conditions like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. It works by blocking enzymes that cause pain and inflammation. Some people may need an alternative to meloxicam due to contraindications related to heart, gastrointestinal, or kidney disease, or for those with a higher risk of bleeding.
RELATED: Osteoarthritis vs. rheumatoid arthritis: Which one do I have?
What can I take instead of meloxicam?
There are other options available to treat osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, acute pain, or gout flares that do not improve with meloxicam. The possible alternatives depend on the specific medical condition being treated and will vary among people. These alternative medications may include other types of NSAIDs, including oral and topical options, duloxetine (Cymbalta), topical capsaicin, acetaminophen, and corticosteroids. These options may be more suitable for specific individuals due to their different uses, side effect profiles, and dosages.
RELATED: What it’s like living with osteoarthritis
Compare meloxicam alternatives |
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|---|---|---|---|
| Drug name | Price without insurance | SingleCare price | Savings options |
| Meloxicam | $117 for 30, 15 mg tablets | $7 for 30, 15 mg tablets (generic) at Kroger | See latest prices |
| Celebrex (celecoxib) | $135 for 30, 200 mg capsules (generic celecoxib) | $7 for 30, 200 mg capsules (generic celecoxib) at Kroger | See latest prices |
| Diclofenac | $127 for 30, 100 mg tablets | $25 for 30, 100 mg tablets at CVS | See latest prices |
| Feldene (piroxicam) | $101 for 30, 10 mg capsules (generic piroxicam) | $13 for 30, 10 mg capsules (generic piroxicam) at Kroger | See latest prices |
| Ibuprofen | $82 for 30, 800 mg tablets | $3 for 30, 800 mg tablets at Walmart | See latest prices |
| Indomethacin | $28 for 30, 50 mg capsules | $8 for 30, 50 mg capsules at Kroger | See latest prices |
| Lodine (etodolac) | $89 for 60, 400 mg tablet (generic etodolac ER) | $24 for 60, 400 mg tablet (generic etodolac ER) at Kroger | See latest prices |
| Naprosyn
(naproxen) |
$76 for 60, 500 mg tablets (generic naproxen) | $8 for 60, 500 mg tablets (generic naproxen) | See latest prices |
| Nabumetone | $80 for 60, 500 mg tablets (generic nabumetone) | $16 for 60, 500 mg tablets (generic nabumetone) at Kroger | See latest prices |
| Sulindac | $100 for 60, 20 mg tablets | $17 for 60, 200 mg tablets (generic) at Kroger | See latest prices |
| Voltaren (diclofenac) | $106 for 60, 75 mg tablets | $7 for 60, 75 mg tablets at Walmart | See latest prices |
Prescription drug prices often change. These are the most accurate medication prices at the time of publishing in ZIP code 23666 as of November 6, 2025. The listed price without insurance references the price of brand-name drugs (unless otherwise specified). The listed SingleCare price references the price of generic drugs if available.
Save up to 80% on Meloxicam with SingleCare Different pharmacies offer different prices for the same medication. SingleCare helps find the best price for you.
Top 5 meloxicam alternatives
The following are some of the most common alternatives to meloxicam.
1. Celebrex (celecoxib)
Celebrex is a brand-name medication available as a generic called celecoxib. This alternative treats various conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, dysmenorrhea (menstrual cramps), juvenile idiopathic arthritis, and migraine. Celebrex is an NSAID that is selective for the enzyme cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), meaning it has fewer toxic effects on the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and is considered a COX-2 selective inhibitor. This alternative provides comparable pain relief to nonselective NSAIDs among patients with rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Like other NSAIDS, Celebrex has an increased risk of cardiovascular adverse events, including heart attack, heart failure, and stroke. People with a sulfa allergy should avoid Celebrex, as there is a risk of allergic reactions. This alternative is available as an oral capsule typically dosed one to two times per day, depending on the condition being treated. Celebrex may be a more suitable alternative for people with increased risk factors for GI bleeding.
RELATED: Meloxicam vs. Celebrex: Differences, similarities, and which is better for you
2. Ibuprofen
Ibuprofen is one of the most commonly used generic NSAIDs and has been used for various conditions such as rheumatoid disorders, osteoarthritis, headache, dysmenorrhea (menstrual cramps), migraine, and generally mild to moderate pain. Ibuprofen is a nonselective NSAID with potential gastrointestinal effects along with kidney and cardiovascular risks. At lower strengths (100 mg to 200 mg), ibuprofen is conveniently available over-the-counter (OTC) as a generic and brand-name medication such as Advil and Motrin. Ibuprofen requires a prescription at higher strengths (400 mg to 800 mg). Ibuprofen should be taken with food or milk to decrease the chance of stomach upset. Ibuprofen is available in various dosage forms, including oral capsules, oral tablets, oral suspension, and chewable tablets. This alternative may be best for those who prefer the convenience of an OTC treatment option.
RELATED: Meloxicam vs. ibuprofen: Differences, similarities, and which is better for you
3. Naprosyn (naproxen)
Naprosyn is a brand-name medication available as a generic called naproxen. Naprosyn can be used for various inflammatory conditions, including mild to moderate pain, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, migraine, gout flares, and ankylosing spondylitis. Naproxen is available over-the-counter (OTC) at lower strengths (220 mg) as a generic medication and as a brand-name medication (such as Aleve). It is also available as a prescription drug at higher strengths (250 mg to 750 mg). Naprosyn is a nonselective NSAID with potential gastrointestinal effects along with kidney and cardiovascular risks. This medication should be taken with food or milk to help avoid stomach upset. Like ibuprofen, Naprosyn may be more suitable for those who prefer the convenience of an OTC treatment option.
RELATED: Meloxicam and naproxen: Uses, differences, and side effects
4. Diclofenac
Diclofenac is a generic medication available in several oral medication brand names (Lofena, Zipsor) and topical medications (Voltaren gel and Flector patches). Diclofenac has uses in various conditions, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, migraine, acute pain, and gout flares. Like meloxicam, diclofenac is relatively selective for the COX-2 enzyme and has warnings for cardiovascular and gastrointestinal risks, similar to other NSAIDs. Topical diclofenac appears to have similar benefits in knee osteoarthritis, with fewer gastrointestinal symptoms and potentially less cardiovascular toxicity than oral dosage forms. With the option of topical dosage forms, diclofenac may be a well-suited alternative for people who need to avoid oral medication.
RELATED: Diclofenac vs. meloxicam: Differences, similarities, and cost comparison
5. Relafen DS (nabumetone)
Relafen DS is a brand-name medication that is available as a generic called nabumetone. Nabumetone is primarily used to treat osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Like meloxicam, nabumetone is relatively selective for the COX-2 enzyme at lower doses. There is some evidence that nabumetone may be less likely to cause stomach ulcers than other NSAIDs. Relafen DS shares the common side effects of NSAIDs, such as stomach pain, nausea, diarrhea, constipation, indigestion, headache, and dizziness. This alternative is only available as a tablet and is typically dosed one to two times per day.
Natural alternatives to meloxicam
Alternative remedies for meloxicam include supplements, lifestyle changes, and diet modifications to manage pain and reduce inflammation.
Turmeric is one of several supplements available which may help with symptoms of arthritis. It is an over-the-counter (OTC) supplement which contains curcumin that has both anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative properties. Many research studies, including meta-analyses of multiple studies, have demonstrated that curcumin extracts can significantly reduce pain and improve physical function in individuals with knee osteoarthritis, with an efficacy comparable to some NSAIDs.
Along with various other health benefits, regular exercise is associated with the natural production of anti-inflammatory substances. The health-beneficial effects of exercise are involved in protecting against chronic diseases associated with low-grade inflammation, such as diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Additionally, staying active can help strengthen the muscles surrounding the joints, giving them more support.
RELATED: What’s the best exercise for arthritis? Try these six options
According to The Arthritis Foundation, following an anti-inflammatory diet may help reduce body inflammation. Many anti-inflammatory foods are included in the Mediterranean Diet. This diet includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, grains, potatoes, beans, nuts, olive oil, eggs, fish, and poultry. Foods with omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish, also have anti-inflammatory properties.
How to switch to a meloxicam alternative
Discuss all health conditions with a healthcare provider
Before switching from meloxicam to an alternative, the prescribing doctor must review all health conditions. Alternatives may have serious side effects, precautions, or drug interactions that must be avoided. It’s best to seek medical advice before changing medication therapy. If cost is a concern when finding a meloxicam alternative, using a SingleCare prescription discount card at a local pharmacy can help you save up to 80% on your next prescription.Do not suddenly stop taking meloxicam
Before stopping meloxicam, make a pain care plan with the prescribing doctor to avoid sudden flares in pain or inflammation (such as joint pain, arthritis pain, or back pain). Once a plan has been established, meloxicam can be safely discontinued and replaced with a new treatment.
Avoid taking more than one NSAID together
Due to the increased risk of toxicities, such as gastrointestinal ones, different nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) should not be used together. Prescription NSAIDs, such as meloxicam and nabumetone, should not be combined with over-the-counter NSAIDs, like Advil and Aleve. It’s essential to read the drug labels of all OTC medications as some combination drugs, such as Cold and Flu medications, contain NSAIDs.
Choosing the right path for arthritis treatment
Choosing an alternative to meloxicam is not a one-size-fits-all decision. It is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider to determine an individualized treatment plan. A doctor can evaluate your specific health conditions, such as existing heart, gastrointestinal, or kidney issues, and review your other medications to avoid dangerous interactions. They can also provide guidance on the most effective and safest options for your particular type of arthritis and overall health needs
In summary, the alternative treatment options to meloxicam include:
Other NSAIDs: Other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, naproxen, or celecoxib, can be used as alternatives. Each of these medications has a different profile regarding efficacy, dosage, and potential side effects, including risks to the gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, and kidney systems. Celecoxib, for example, is a COX-2 selective NSAID that may pose less risk to the stomach than others.
Non-NSAID Medications: For individuals who cannot take NSAIDs, other pharmaceutical options include acetaminophen for pain relief or corticosteroids for severe inflammation. Topical medications like diclofenac gel can also be used for localized pain and may carry fewer systemic side effects than oral medications.
Natural Alternatives and Lifestyle Changes: Natural remedies and lifestyle modifications can also help manage pain and inflammation. This includes dietary changes, such as adopting an anti-inflammatory diet, and supplements like curcumin from turmeric. Regular exercise is also beneficial for strengthening muscles and reducing inflammation..
- UpToDate Lexidrug, UpToDate Inc.
- Overview of the management of rheumatoid arthritis in adults, UpToDate Inc. (2025)
- Overview of the management of osteoarthritis, UpToDate Inc. (2025)
- Therapeutic effects of turmeric or curcumin extract on pain and function for individuals with knee osteoarthritis: A systematic review, BMJ Open Sport & Exercise Medicine (2021)
- Efficacy of turmeric extracts and curcumin for alleviating the symptoms of joint arthritis: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials, Journal of Medicinal Food (2016)