Meloxicam - Indications, Dosage, Side Effects and Precautions

Information about Meloxicam

Generic Name : Meloxicam
Up-to-date prescription details regarding Meloxicam are provided here.

Pronunciation : mel-OX-i-kam

Learn the correct pronunciation of the Meloxicam, understand it's uses, recommended dosages, its indications, how to take, when to take, when not to take, side effects, special precautions, warnings and its and its storage instructions.

You will also find a list of the medication's International and Indian brand or trade names, as well as its pricing information. For verification of the information presented on this page or for additional clarifications, it's advisable to consult your doctor.

ICD Code : Y45.3 Therapeutic Classification : Analgesics

Trade Names/Brand Names of Meloxicam

India :

International :

Mobic

Why is Meloxicam Prescribed? (Indications)

This medication is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), prescribed for pain, swelling, and stiffness caused by breakdown of joints. It is also used in children 2 years of age and older for juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (a type of arthritis that affects children). It prevents the production of certain chemicals that cause pain and inflammation in the body.

When should Meloxicam not be taken? (Contraindications)

Hypersensitivity to this medication, aspirin or other NSAIDs; severe liver impairment; bleeding disorders; kidney failure without dialysis. Rectal administration is contraindicated in patients with inflammation of the anus and the rectum, hemorrhoids (swelling and inflammation of the veins in the rectal and anus) or rectal bleeding, perioperative pain in patients who have undergone coronary artery bypass graft.

What is the dosage of Meloxicam?

Oral/Rectal- Ankylosing spondylitis; Rheumatoid arthritis- 15 mg once daily.
Patients with increased risk of adverse effects- Initial: 7.5 mg.
Acute exacerbations of osteoarthritis- 7.5 mg once daily. Max: 15 mg once daily.

How should Meloxicam be taken?

It comes as a tablet and suspension (liquid) to take by mouth. It is usually taken once a day with or without food.

What are the side effects of Meloxicam?

Heart- Chest pain, abnormal heart rhythm, cardiac failure, hypertension, heart attack, fast heart rate, risk of blood clots and stroke.
Central Nervous System- Headache, dizziness, sleeplessness, abnormal dreaming, anxiety, confusion, convulsions, depression, fatigue, increased appetite, nervousness, general discomfort, drowsiness, tremor and vertigo.
Skin- Rash, itching, hair loss, swelling of the skin, skin eruption, increased sweating, photosensitivity reaction, redness of the skin and multiforme(allergic reaction that occurs in response to medications).
Eye and ENT- Inflammation of pharynx, abnormal vision, inflammation of conjunctiva, taste perversion and abnormal noise in the ear.
Gastrointestinal- Indigestion, diarrhea, nausea, abdominal pain, constipation, flatulence, vomiting, dry mouth, duodenal ulcer, eructation, difficult and painful swallowing, gastric ulcer, heart burn, GI bleeding and blood vomiting.
Genitourinary- Urinary tract infection, frequent urination, albumin in urine, increased BUN(Blood, Urea, Nitrogen) and creatinine, blood in urine and kidney failure.
Blood- Anemia, decrease in white blood cells, platelets and easy bruising.
Liver- Increased liver enzymes, bilirubinemia, inflammation of liver and liver failure.
Metabolic- Dehydration, weight loss or gain.
Musculoskeletal- Muscle pain, back pain, joint-related signs and symptoms.
Respiratory- Upper respiratory tract infection, coughing, asthma and shortness of breath.
Miscellaneous- Influenza-like symptoms, swelling of leg, household accidents, allergic reaction, face edema, fever and hot flushes.

What are the other precautions for Meloxicam?

Do not change the dosage without consulting with your doctor.

What are the storage conditions for Meloxicam?

Oral: Store it at controlled room temperature (59° to 86°F) and in an airtight container.