{"id":628781,"date":"2024-07-01T12:38:06","date_gmt":"2024-07-01T16:38:06","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/?p=628781"},"modified":"2025-11-06T13:41:34","modified_gmt":"2025-11-06T18:41:34","slug":"diclofenac-vs-meloxicam","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/diclofenac-vs-meloxicam\/","title":{"rendered":"Diclofenac vs. meloxicam: Differences, similarities, and cost comparison"},"content":{"rendered":"

If you experience pain from arthritis, you may be recommended a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) like diclofenac or meloxicam. These medications are widely used for treating pain and inflammation. Both diclofenac and meloxicam are generic prescription drugs used for similar purposes and are often accessible with or without insurance coverage.<\/span><\/p>\n

Although diclofenac and meloxicam are used for similar purposes, they differ in various ways, including available dosage forms, age restrictions, and potential side effects. They may also differ in how they work and block <\/span>cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes<\/span><\/a>. Therefore, it\u2019s always recommended to consult a healthcare provider for the most appropriate treatment.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Continue reading to learn more about the similarities and differences between diclofenac and meloxicam.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

What are the main differences between diclofenac and meloxicam?<\/span><\/h2>\n

Diclofenac and meloxicam are both <\/span>NSAIDs<\/span><\/a> used for pain relief and inflammation. They treat conditions such as arthritis but vary in several aspects.<\/span><\/p>\n

Mechanism of action<\/span><\/h3>\n

COX enzymes, specifically COX-1 and <\/span>COX-2<\/span><\/a>, are responsible for producing prostaglandins. While both COX enzymes produce prostaglandins that promote inflammation, COX-1 also produces prostaglandins that protect the stomach lining from stomach acid. Therefore, non-selective NSAIDs that block both COX enzymes may have a higher risk of causing <\/span>stomach ulcers<\/span><\/a> compared to partially selective NSAIDs.<\/span><\/p>\n

Diclofenac blocks both COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes, which may help reduce pain and inflammation but may increase the risk of gastrointestinal issues. Meloxicam primarily blocks COX-2, making it potentially gentler on the stomach while providing anti-inflammatory benefits.<\/span><\/p>\n

Dosing and dosage forms<\/span><\/h3>\n

Diclofenac comes in <\/span>various forms<\/span><\/a>, including tablets, capsules, topical gels, and injections. It is also available under different brand names, including Voltaren, Cambia, and Zorvolex. The oral tablets are typically taken two to four times per day, depending on the condition being treated, while the topical gel is generally applied four times daily. Unlike meloxicam, diclofenac topical gel is available over the counter under the brand name Voltaren Gel.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Meloxicam is typically available in tablets, capsules, oral suspensions, and injections. The typical dosage is <\/span>7.5 mg once daily<\/span><\/a>. However, the dosage may be increased to 15 mg once daily. Unlike diclofenac, meloxicam is only available with a <\/span>prescription from a healthcare provider<\/span><\/a>. The brand names of meloxicam include Mobic and Vivlodex. However, the brand-name versions may no longer be on the market.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
Main differences between diclofenac and meloxicam<\/span><\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
<\/td>\nDiclofenac<\/b><\/td>\nMeloxicam<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Drug class<\/b><\/td>\nNonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)<\/span><\/td>\nNonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Brand\/generic status<\/b><\/td>\nBrand and generic available<\/span><\/td>\nBrand and generic versions available<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
What is the brand name?<\/b><\/td>\nVoltaren<\/span><\/p>\n

Cambia<\/span><\/p>\n

Cataflam<\/span><\/p>\n

Zipsor<\/span><\/p>\n

Zorvolex<\/span><\/td>\n

Mobic<\/span><\/p>\n

Vivlodex<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n

What form(s) does the drug come in?<\/b><\/td>\nOral tablet<\/span><\/p>\n

Oral capsule<\/span><\/p>\n

Oral suspension<\/span><\/p>\n

Solution for injection<\/span><\/p>\n

Topical gel\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Topical solution<\/span><\/p>\n

Rectal suppository<\/span><\/td>\n

Oral tablet<\/span><\/p>\n

Oral capsule<\/span><\/p>\n

Oral suspension<\/span><\/p>\n

Solution for injection<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n

What is the standard dosage?<\/b><\/td>\nThe dosage depends on the type of pain being treated and the dosage form used. For example, the typical oral dosage for osteoarthritis is 50 mg two to three times per day, while the topical dosage is 2 or 4 g of gel to the affected area four times daily.\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\nThe dosage depends on the type of pain being treated and the dosage form used. The typical oral dosage is 7.5 to 15 mg daily.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
How long is the typical treatment?<\/b><\/td>\nShort-term or long-term, as instructed by a healthcare provider<\/span><\/td>\nShort-term or long-term, as instructed by a healthcare provider<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Who typically uses the medication?<\/b><\/td>\nAdults<\/span><\/td>\nAdults and children aged two years and older<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

Conditions treated by diclofenac and meloxicam<\/span><\/h2>\n

Diclofenac and meloxicam are NSAIDs approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat <\/span>osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis<\/span><\/a>. These conditions are often accompanied by joint pain and inflammation. Diclofenac and meloxicam may be potential options for short-term or long-term use with guidance from a healthcare provider.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

In addition to osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, diclofenac is approved to treat chronic and acute pain from ankylosing spondylitis, a type of arthritis that affects the spine. Meloxicam is sometimes used off-label for this purpose.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Meloxicam is also approved for <\/span>juvenile rheumatoid arthritis<\/span><\/a>, a chronic inflammatory condition that affects children under the age of 16. It may be prescribed for children and adolescents with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis who weigh <\/span>at least 132 lbs or 60 kg<\/span><\/a>.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Diclofenac and meloxicam may sometimes be used for general mild or moderate acute pain, such as pain following surgery or injury, dental pain, menstrual cramps, and headaches.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
Condition<\/b><\/td>\nDiclofenac<\/b><\/td>\nMeloxicam<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Osteoarthritis<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Rheumatoid arthritis<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Ankylosing spondylitis<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nOff-label<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis<\/span><\/td>\nOff-label<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

Is diclofenac or meloxicam more effective?<\/span><\/h2>\n

Multiple clinical trials have shown that diclofenac and meloxicam may be more effective than placebo for pain and inflammation.<\/span><\/p>\n

One study compared diclofenac and meloxicam for treating osteoarthritis of the lumbar spine. Results found <\/span>no statistically significant differences<\/span><\/a> in pain relief between diclofenac and meloxicam. Both drugs provided substantial improvements in pain and inflammation for patients. However, meloxicam was better tolerated, with 7% more patients reporting fewer side effects than diclofenac.<\/span><\/p>\n

The <\/span>MELISSA trial<\/span><\/a> was a double-blind comparison of the safety of meloxicam and diclofenac. It found that meloxicam caused fewer gastrointestinal issues, with 13% of patients experiencing problems compared to 19% for diclofenac. Additionally, fewer patients stopped taking meloxicam due to side effects (5.48%) compared to diclofenac (7.96%).<\/span><\/p>\n

A doctor or healthcare provider should determine the most effective treatment. This decision depends on a person\u2019s medical history, current medications, and response to treatment.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Coverage and cost comparison of diclofenac vs meloxicam<\/span><\/h2>\n

Diclofenac and meloxicam are generic medications typically covered by more insurance plans, including <\/span>Medicare Part D<\/span><\/a> and <\/span>Medicare Advantage<\/span><\/a> plans. However, the level of coverage can vary based on the specific insurance plan, the form of the medication, and the quantity prescribed. Diclofenac topical gel is available over the counter and may come with <\/span>higher out-of-pocket costs<\/span><\/a> than covered diclofenac forms.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The average retail prices of these medications can vary. A <\/span>SingleCare discount card<\/span><\/a> can be used to save on the cost of <\/span>diclofenac<\/span><\/a> and <\/span>meloxicam<\/span><\/a> at participating pharmacies.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
<\/td>\nDiclofenac<\/b><\/td>\nMeloxicam<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Typically covered by insurance?<\/b><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Typically covered by Medicare Part D?<\/b><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Quantity<\/b><\/td>\n50 mg (14 tablets)<\/span><\/td>\n7.5 mg (30 tablets)<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Typical Medicare copay<\/b><\/td>\nVaries<\/span><\/td>\nVaries<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
SingleCare cost<\/b><\/td>\n$7 at Kroger<\/span><\/a><\/td>\n$7 at Kroger<\/span><\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

Prescription drug prices often change. These are the most accurate medication prices at the time of publishing in ZIP code 23666 as of Nov. 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.<\/em><\/small><\/small><\/p>\n

Common side effects of diclofenac vs meloxicam<\/span><\/h2>\n

As NSAIDs, <\/span>diclofenac<\/span><\/a> and <\/span>meloxicam<\/span><\/a> share many of the same side effects. Both medications often cause gastrointestinal side effects, such as nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Both medications share some common side effects, but meloxicam often has an improved safety profile and better tolerability parameters. It may lead to fewer severe adverse events compared to diclofenac.<\/span><\/p>\n

Some people may experience serious side effects, including liver problems, kidney problems, and severe allergic reactions that require immediate medical attention. Heart attacks and duodenal ulcers are also risks associated with long-term use.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
<\/td>\nDiclofenac<\/b><\/td>\nMeloxicam<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Side Effect<\/b><\/td>\nApplicable?<\/b><\/td>\nFrequency<\/b><\/td>\nApplicable?<\/b><\/td>\nFrequency<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Diarrhea<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n1%-10%<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n8%<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Indigestion<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n1%-10%<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n5%<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Gas<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n1%-10%<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n3%<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Constipation<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n1%-10%<\/span><\/td>\n<\/td>\n1%<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Abdominal pain<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n1%-10%<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n2%<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Headache<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n1%-10%<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n8%<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Nausea<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n1%-10%<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n4%<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Vomiting<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n1%-10%<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n1%<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Swelling in the hands, legs, and feet<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n1%-10%<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n2%<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Drowsiness<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n1%-10%<\/span><\/td>\nNo<\/span><\/td>\n–<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Insomnia<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n1%-10%<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n0.4%<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Dizziness<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n1%-10%<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n3%<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Flu-like symptoms<\/span><\/td>\nNo<\/span><\/td>\n–<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n5%<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Sore throat<\/span><\/td>\nNo<\/span><\/td>\n–<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n1%<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Rash<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n1%-10%<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n3%<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

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.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

Source: DailyMed (<\/span>Diclofenac<\/span><\/a>), DailyMed (<\/span>Meloxicam<\/span><\/a>)<\/span><\/p>\n

Drug interactions of diclofenac vs meloxicam<\/span><\/h2>\n

Diclofenac<\/span><\/a> and <\/span>meloxicam<\/span><\/a> interact with several other medications, which can increase the risk of severe side effects. Both diclofenac and meloxicam may cause an increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding, especially when combined with blood thinners, such as aspirin, warfarin, and certain antidepressants.<\/span><\/p>\n

Combining diclofenac or meloxicam with blood pressure medications such as <\/span>ACE inhibitors<\/span><\/a>, angiotensin receptor blockers (<\/span>ARBs<\/span><\/a>), or <\/span>beta-blockers<\/span><\/a> can reduce the effectiveness of these <\/span>blood pressure drugs<\/span><\/a>. This means your blood pressure might not be as well controlled as it should be. Monitoring your blood pressure regularly is important if you take any of these combinations.<\/span><\/p>\n

For older adults, those who are dehydrated, or those with kidney problems, using diclofenac or meloxicam with ACE inhibitors or ARBs may worsen kidney function. If you fall into one of these high-risk groups, your doctor will need to keep a close eye on your kidney health.<\/span><\/p>\n

In addition, using diclofenac or meloxicam with <\/span>diuretics<\/span><\/a> can reduce the effectiveness of the diuretics. These drugs are often used to help control blood pressure and reduce swelling by helping your body get rid of extra salt and water. If you are taking these medications together, you’ll need to be monitored to make sure the diuretics are still working properly.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
Drug<\/b><\/td>\nDrug Class<\/b><\/td>\nDiclofenac<\/b><\/td>\nMeloxicam<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Aspirin<\/span><\/td>\nAntiplatelet<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Coumadin (warfarin)<\/span><\/td>\nAnticoagulant<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Paxil (paroxetine)<\/span><\/p>\n

Zoloft (sertraline)<\/span><\/p>\n

Lexapro (escitalopram)<\/span><\/p>\n

Prozac (fluoxetine)<\/span><\/td>\n

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressant<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Effexor (venlafaxine)<\/span><\/p>\n

Pristiq (desvenlafaxine)<\/span><\/td>\n

Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) antidepressant<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Vasotec (enalapril)<\/span><\/p>\n

Prinivil (lisinopril)<\/span><\/p>\n

Lotensin (benazepril)<\/span><\/td>\n

Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Cozaar (losartan)<\/span><\/p>\n

Diovan (valsartan)<\/span><\/p>\n

Avapro (irbesartan)<\/span><\/p>\n

Atacand (candesartan)<\/span><\/td>\n

Angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs)<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Lopressor (metoprolol)<\/span><\/p>\n

Coreg (carvedilol)<\/span><\/p>\n

Tenormin (atenolol)<\/span><\/td>\n

Beta-blockers\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Microzide (hydrochlorothiazide)<\/span><\/p>\n

Lasix (furosemide)<\/span><\/td>\n

Diuretics<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Lithobid (lithium)<\/span><\/td>\nMood stabilizer<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Trexall (methotrexate)<\/span><\/td>\nAntimetabolite<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Lanoxin (digoxin)<\/span><\/td>\nCardiac glycoside<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

This may not be a complete list of all possible drug interactions. Consult a doctor about all medications you may be taking.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

Warnings of diclofenac and meloxicam<\/span><\/h2>\n

Diclofenac and meloxicam may carry several warnings that should be kept in mind before starting treatment. Below are some important precautions to consider:<\/span><\/p>\n