Alternatives to Nabumetone If You Can't Fill Your Prescription

Nabumetone (formerly sold as Relafen) is a commonly prescribed NSAID for osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. But sometimes it's temporarily out of stock at your pharmacy, or your doctor wants to explore other options. The good news: there are several well-studied NSAID alternatives that may work just as well, depending on your individual health profile. This guide breaks down the most common alternatives so you can have an informed conversation with your prescriber.

Important: Always Consult Your Doctor Before Switching

Before substituting any NSAID, talk to your prescriber. Different NSAIDs have different potencies, dosing frequencies, kidney and heart risk profiles, and drug interactions. What works for one patient may be inappropriate for another. The alternatives below are for informational purposes — not a substitute for medical advice.

Top Alternatives to Nabumetone

1. Meloxicam (Mobic)

Meloxicam is one of the most frequently prescribed prescription NSAIDs in the U.S. Like nabumetone, it preferentially inhibits COX-2 over COX-1, which may reduce the risk of stomach side effects compared to older NSAIDs. Meloxicam comes in 7.5 mg and 15 mg tablets taken once daily. It is FDA-approved for osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (pauciarticular and polyarticular course). Generic meloxicam is widely available and inexpensive — often around $4–$12 for a 30-day supply. It is a strong first-choice alternative when nabumetone is unavailable.

2. Celecoxib (Celebrex)

Celecoxib is a selective COX-2 inhibitor, making it the gentlest on the stomach among prescription NSAIDs. It is often prescribed for patients with a history of GI issues or those at higher GI risk. Celecoxib is FDA-approved for osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, acute pain, and primary dysmenorrhea. Generic celecoxib is available and moderately priced. Note that celecoxib carries cardiovascular risk similar to other NSAIDs and requires caution in patients with heart disease.

3. Naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn)

Naproxen is available both over-the-counter (OTC) as Aleve and by prescription as Naprosyn at higher doses. It has a long history of use for arthritis pain and inflammation, with prescription-strength naproxen sodium (550 mg) taken twice daily. Among NSAIDs, naproxen is considered to have a relatively lower cardiovascular risk profile compared to some others. It is not COX-2 selective and carries typical GI risks. Generic naproxen is one of the most affordable NSAIDs available.

4. Diclofenac (Voltaren, Cambia)

Diclofenac is available as oral tablets, extended-release capsules, topical gel (Voltaren), and a topical solution (Pennsaid). Topical diclofenac gel is now OTC and is especially useful for localized joint pain in the hands or knees, as it delivers anti-inflammatory relief with minimal systemic absorption. Oral diclofenac carries standard NSAID risks. For elderly patients or those with kidney concerns, topical diclofenac is often preferred.

Comparing Nabumetone to Its Alternatives

Here's a quick side-by-side comparison of key factors:

Dosing frequency: Nabumetone — once or twice daily. Meloxicam — once daily. Celecoxib — once or twice daily. Naproxen — twice daily.

GI friendliness: Nabumetone and meloxicam have relatively better GI profiles due to COX-2 preference. Celecoxib is the most stomach-friendly. Naproxen carries higher GI risk at full doses.

Cost: Naproxen OTC is cheapest. Meloxicam generic is very affordable. Generic nabumetone is moderately priced. Generic celecoxib is mid-range.

Prescription required: Nabumetone — yes. Meloxicam — yes. Celecoxib — yes. Naproxen — OTC available at lower doses; Rx for higher doses.

Non-NSAID Alternatives for Arthritis Pain

If NSAIDs are contraindicated for you (e.g., kidney disease, heart disease, history of GI bleeding), your doctor may suggest:

Acetaminophen (Tylenol): Safer for the GI tract and kidneys, though less effective for inflammation.

Duloxetine (Cymbalta): FDA-approved for chronic musculoskeletal pain, often used for osteoarthritis when NSAIDs are not appropriate.

Physical therapy and exercise: Especially for osteoarthritis, movement is medicine. Ask your doctor for a physical therapy referral.

Corticosteroid injections: For acute flares of arthritis, a steroid injection directly into the affected joint can provide weeks of relief.

First, Try to Find Nabumetone in Stock

Before considering a switch, it's worth checking whether nabumetone is available nearby. medfinder calls pharmacies near you to find which ones have your medication in stock. Check out our tips on how to find nabumetone near you before contacting your doctor about an alternative.