Galliprant vs Meloxicam: what's the difference?
How Galliprant and Meloxicam compare: what each is for, how it works, side effects and cost, side by side.
Last updated: October 2026 · 3 sources · see sources
Side by side
| Galliprant | Meloxicam | |
|---|---|---|
| Generic name | Grapiprant | Meloxicam |
| Brand names | Galliprant | Metacam, Loxicom, OroCAM |
| For | Dogs | Dogs and cats |
| Prescription | Prescription | Prescription |
| Used for | Treats osteoarthritis pain and inflammation in dogs. [1] | Relieves pain, inflammation and fever. It is labeled for osteoarthritis in dogs and for pain after surgery. [2] |
| How it works | It is a newer type of NSAID that blocks one specific prostaglandin receptor (EP4) tied to arthritis pain, instead of shutting down prostaglandins broadly. [1] | An NSAID that lowers prostaglandins, which drive pain and swelling. [2] |
| Common side effects | Vomiting, diarrhea, low appetite, blood or mucus in stool, and lower blood protein levels. [1] | Stomach upset is most common: vomiting, soft stool and low appetite. Rarely, kidney or liver problems. [2] |
| Use with care | Not for dogs under 9 months old or under 8 pounds, or dogs that are breeding, pregnant or nursing. Don't combine with other NSAIDs or steroids. [1] | Cats are more sensitive to NSAIDs, so follow your vet's plan exactly. Not for pets with kidney or liver disease or bloody vomit or stool. Never combine with another NSAID or a steroid. [2] |
| Typical price | No reliable published price | Meloxicam for a dog, at a pharmacy: $4–$15 a month [3] |
| Full guide | Galliprant guide | Meloxicam (Metacam) guide |
Key differences
- They aren't made for the same animals: Galliprant is for dogs; Meloxicam is for dogs and cats.
Which one is right for my pet?
That is a call for your vet. They weigh your pet's age, weight, other health problems, other medicines and what you can realistically give at home.
Switching from Galliprant to Meloxicam is common, but do it only with your vet's plan.
Common questions
What is the difference between Galliprant and Meloxicam?
Both ease arthritis pain. Galliprant works on one prostaglandin receptor; meloxicam is a traditional NSAID that is also used in cats.
Is Galliprant better than Meloxicam?
Neither is better for every pet. Your vet chooses based on your pet's species, age, health history, other medicines and what you can manage at home.
Can my pet take Galliprant and Meloxicam together?
Only if your vet says so. Some medicines in the same family should not be combined, and others are often used together. Always check before adding or switching.
Do Galliprant and Meloxicam need a prescription?
Galliprant: Yes. It needs a prescription from a veterinarian. Meloxicam: Yes. It needs a prescription from a veterinarian.
How much do Galliprant and Meloxicam cost?
Galliprant: no reliable published price. Meloxicam: Meloxicam for a dog, at a pharmacy $4–$15 a month. Prices vary by pet size, pharmacy and clinic.
Related
This page is general information for planning, not veterinary advice. Talk to your vet about your own pet.