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Author: Admin | 2025-04-28
Meloxicam is a prescription-only nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) for treating pain related to arthritis in adults and children 2 years old and older. Naproxen is another NSAID, and it is approved for distribution as a prescription (sold as Naprosyn) and an over-the-counter (OTC) drug (sold as Aleve). Meloxicam is considered more potent than naproxen and has a longer-lasting effect. As a result, meloxicam can be taken in smaller doses and less frequently than naproxen. Naproxen, on the other hand, is dosed multiple times daily and is available in slow-release formulations. These slow-release formulations are designed to release the drug into the body at slower rates, prolonging its effects. Meloxicam's risk of GI side effects is lower compared to naproxen. However, it does have a higher risk of heart-related effects. Other NSAIDs, like naproxen, may be preferred if you have any GI risk or high cardiovascular risk. This article compares the similarities and differences of meloxicam and naproxen. Getty Images / Malorny What Is Meloxicam? Meloxicam is an NSAID used to relieve various types of pain. It is used to treat osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis in adults and juvenile rheumatoid arthritis in children at least 2 years old. It is available as tablets and capsules. How Does It Work? Meloxicam inhibits COX-1 and COX-2, the enzymes that produce prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are responsible for producing pain and inflammation. Specifically, COX-1 protects the stomach lining, promotes blood clotting, and aids in kidney function, while COX-2 is involved in the body's inflammatory response. Meloxicam preferentially inhibits COX-2 over COX-1 at low doses, such as 7.5 milligrams (mg). This means that it can reduce pain and inflammation without irritating the stomach lining or increasing the risk of stomach ulcers. However, if the dosage of meloxicam is increased to 15 mg, it will inhibit COX-1, which may increase its risk of GI side effects. What Is Naproxen? Naproxen is also an NSAID, and it is approved for prescription and OTC use. The prescription formulation is marketed under Naprosyn and EC-Naprosyn (delayed-release formulation). OTC naproxen is sold under the brand name Aleve. Prescription naproxen is used to
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