Treatment FAQ

what is meloxicam a treatment for

by Dr. Elinore Harvey DVM Published 2 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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Meloxicam is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to relieve the symptoms of arthritis (juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis), such as inflammation, swelling, stiffness, and joint pain.

Precautions

Meloxicam is safe when used following a doctor’s prescription. But its misuse or abuse can lead to potentially dangerous side effects. Many people also worry about this drug’s ability to cause addiction. Since meloxicam is used as a pain killer, many people believe it could be a gateway to opioids.

Is meloxicam a dangerous drug?

What Is Meloxicam Used For?

  • Meloxicam For Arthritis. Meloxicam is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) approved by the FDA in the treatment of different kinds of arthritis, namely osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis (including the juvenile ...
  • Mobic for Pain. ...
  • Meloxicam For Back Pain. ...
  • Mobic for Gout. ...

What is the medication meloxicam used for?

I take pregabalin now and it’s much better. Those help with nerve pain, meloxicam wont. The gaba and pregabalin most people can take safely for years but meloxicam you should take as little as you can. It’s like ibuprofen but for me it’s easier on the stomach. Take it only when you think you have inflammation.

What can I take in the place of meloxicam?

What Conditions does MELOXICAM Treat?

  • rheumatoid arthritis
  • joint inflammatory disease in children and young adults
  • joint damage causing pain and loss of function
  • ankylosing spondylitis, a rheumatic disease causing pain and stiffness in backbone
  • a type of joint disorder due to excess uric acid in the blood called gout
  • non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis

What conditions does meloxicam treat?

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What are the benefits of taking meloxicam?

Meloxicam is used to relieve pain, tenderness, swelling, and stiffness caused by osteoarthritis (arthritis caused by a breakdown of the lining of the joints) and rheumatoid arthritis (arthritis caused by swelling of the lining of the joints).

Is meloxicam a painkiller or anti-inflammatory?

Meloxicam is used to treat arthritis. It reduces pain, swelling, and stiffness of the joints. Meloxicam is known as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). If you are treating a chronic condition such as arthritis, ask your doctor about non-drug treatments and/or using other medications to treat your pain.

How long does it take for meloxicam to relieve pain?

The time it takes for meloxicam to give you pain relief depends on the dosage you've been prescribed and the severity of your underlying condition. While some individuals may get relief within two to three weeks of starting treatment, the full effects can take months.

Does meloxicam take away inflammation?

Meloxicam (Mobic) is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that, like all such drugs, inhibits the formation of the enzyme cyclooxygenase (COX). This inhibition leads to a decrease in the production of molecules that boost inflammation and help the blood clot.

What are the worst side effects of meloxicam?

Serious side effects can occur during treatment with this medicine and can occur without warning. However, possible warning signs often occur, including severe stomach pain, black tarry stools, vomiting of blood or material that looks like coffee grounds, skin rash, swelling of the face, fingers, feet, or lower legs.

Is it better to take meloxicam at night or in the morning?

Should meloxicam (Mobic) be taken in the morning or night? It does not matter when you take meloxicam (Mobic) as long as you take it about the same time every day. It's best to take this medication with food or a small snack in order to prevent stomach upset.

Does meloxicam make you sleepy?

Sleepiness is not a common side effect of meloxicam. However, overdosing on meloxicam may cause some sleepiness. In this case, you may need to seek immediate medical attention. The most common side effects of meloxicam include abdominal pain, nausea, dizziness, and headache.

What are the dangers of taking meloxicam?

Serious side effects can occur during treatment with this medicine and can occur without warning. However, possible warning signs often occur, including severe stomach pain, black tarry stools, vomiting of blood or material that looks like coffee grounds, skin rash, swelling of the face, fingers, feet, or lower legs.

Does meloxicam interfere with sleep?

by Drugs.com The side effects for meloxicam don't mention drowsiness (actually meloxicam can cause insomnia) but does mention dizziness. But headache is a common, less serious side effect of meloxicam.

What medications should not be taken with meloxicam?

Avoid taking aspirin while you are taking meloxicam, unless your doctor tells you to. Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using other medicines for pain, fever, swelling, or cold/flu symptoms. They may contain ingredients similar to meloxicam (such as aspirin, ibuprofen, ketoprofen, or naproxen).

What is the strongest anti-inflammatory medication?

Research shows diclofenac is the strongest and most effective non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicine available. 10 Diclofenec is sold under the prescription brand names Cambia, Cataflam, Zipsor, and Zorvolex. It is also available as a topical gel, Voltaren, which is available over the counter.

Is meloxicam good for back pain?

To sum up results from short-term studies, meloxicam and non-selective NSAIDs like ibuprofen show similar pain reduction effects on patients with chronic low back pain.

How Should I Take Meloxicam?

Take meloxicam exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow all directions on your prescription label. Your doctor may occasionally change your dos...

What Happens If I Miss A Dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to...

What Should I Avoid While Taking Meloxicam?

Avoid drinking alcohol. It may increase your risk of stomach bleeding.See also: Meloxicam and alcohol (in more detail)Avoid taking aspirin while yo...

Meloxicam Dosing Information

Usual Adult Dose of Meloxicam for Osteoarthritis:Initial dose: 7.5 mg orally once dailyMaintenance dose: 7.5 mg orally once dailyMaximum dose: 15 m...

What Other Drugs Will Affect Meloxicam?

Ask your doctor before using meloxicam if you take an antidepressant such as citalopram, escitalopram, fluoxetine (Prozac), fluvoxamine, paroxetine...

What are the side effects of Meloxicam?

Side Effects of Meloxicam / Dependence 1 chest pain, weakness, shortness of breath, slurred speech 2 vision problems or trouble balancing 3 stool changes that are black, bloody, or tarry 4 coughing up blood 5 vomiting what looks like coffee grounds 6 increased swelling in the hands or feet, or rapid weight gain 7 lack of energy or excessive tiredness

What are some alternatives to Meloxicam?

There are also many different drugs to treat the inflammation associated with Rheumatoid and osteoarthritis. Ibuprofen, aspirin, and Aleve ( naproxen sodium) are a few of the most common NSAIDs ...

Can Meloxicam cause a habit?

If you have any of the following symptoms, please contact your health care provider right away as they may indicate a more severe response to Meloxicam. They are rare but can cause major problems. Meloxicam can become habit-forming. When people are dependent on it, there are some signs and symptoms to watch out for.

Does Meloxicam affect prostaglandins?

More specifically, it lowers the levels of prostaglandin in the blood. This is a hormone-like material that is known to cause inflammation in the body. Meloxicam may interact with other drugs and it’s especially important to avoid using it if you’re already taking other NSAIDs.

Can you detox from Meloxicam?

Getting Help. Because Meloxicam is not considered an addictive drug, detoxing from it may not be necessary. Many doctors will allow their patients to go off Meloxicam cold-turkey. This means that you can stop taking it right away without the risk of harmful side effects.

Is Meloxicam a narcotic?

Meloxicam is not a narcotic. It’s a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). Its primary use is to treat inflammation, especially that caused by arthritis. Other uses of NSAIDs include reducing fever, treating pain, and sometimes as a blood thinner. This can be a good or bad quality depending on the need.

What is Meloxicam used for?

Uses. Meloxicam is used to treat arthritis. It reduces pain, swelling, and stiffness of the joints. Meloxicam is known as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID).If you are treating a chronic condition such as arthritis, ask your doctor about non-drug treatments and/or using other medications to treat your pain.

How long does it take for Meloxicam to work?

Do not switch between different forms without consulting your doctor. It may take up to two weeks before you get the full benefit of this drug. Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it.

Can Meloxicam cause kidney problems?

Kidney problems can sometimes occur with the use of NSAID medications, including meloxicam. Problems are more likely to occur if you are dehydrated, have heart failure or kidney disease, are an older adult, or if you take certain medications (see also Drug Interactions section).

Does Meloxicam cause heart attacks?

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (including meloxicam) may rarely increase the risk of a heart attack or stroke. This effect can happen at any time while taking this drug but is more likely if you take it for a long time.

Can Meloxicam cause bleeding?

Also, this drug may rarely cause serious (rarely fatal) bleeding from the stomach or intestines. This effect can occur without warning symptoms at any time while taking this drug. Older adults may be at higher risk for this effect. (See also Precautions and Drug Interactions sections.) Stop taking meloxicam and get medical help right away ...

How does Meloxicam work?

Meloxicam works by blocking the effects of the enzymes cyclooxygenase (COX)-1 and COX-2 which prevents prostaglandin synthesis. Prostaglandins elevate body temperature and make nerve endings more sensitive ...

How long does it take for Meloxicam to peak?

Meloxicam appears to be recycled in the liver so another peak is reached in 8 hours (capsule) or in 12-14 hours (tablet) after the initial dose.

What medications interact with Meloxicam?

Common medications that may interact with meloxicam include: ACE inhibitors or ARBs, such as captopril, enalapril, or losartan (monitor BP) antibiotics, such as ciprofloxacin or vancomycin. anticoagulants (blood thinners) such as apixaban, dabigatran, fondaparinux, heparin, or warfarin.

What are some nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs?

other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs), such as celecoxib, diclofenac, etodolac, ibuprofen, ketorolac, nabumetone, or naproxen. sulfonylureas (a type of diabetes medication), such as glimepiride, glyburide, or glipizide. supplements, such as glucosamine, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin E.

Can Meloxicam be taken during pregnancy?

May interact with some other medicines such as warfarin, SSRIs, ACE inhibitors, and diuretics. NSAIDs, such as meloxicam should not be used during the last three months of pregnancy because they can cause premature closure of the fetal ductus arteriosus.

Does Meloxicam affect the stomach?

Meloxicam is considered to have a low potential for stomach-related side effects compared with other NSAIDs.

Can you stop taking Meloxicam?

Medicines that interact with meloxicam may either decrease its effect, affect how long it works for, increase side effects, or have less of an effect when taken with meloxicam. An interaction between two medications does not always mean that you must stop taking one of the medications; however, sometimes it does.

What is meloxicam used for?

Authored by Olivier George, Ph.D. As non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) meloxicam is used for the treatment of pain and inflammation. Meloxicam is also sold under the brand names Mobic and Vivlodex. Inflammation in the joints tends to lead to symptoms that are generally associated with arthritis such as pain in the joints, tenderness, ...

What is the mechanism of action of Meloxicam?

Meloxicam Mechanism of Action. Meloxicam blocks the enzyme that converts arachidonic acid into prostaglandins – mediators of inflammation. By inhibiting the production of these prostaglandins, the risks of inflammation are significantly reduced, and the symptoms of the patient begin to disappear.

Is Meloxicam good for gout?

Meloxicam is also effective for the treatment of gout. Mobic drug class is known for quick relief for people who suffer from acute gout episodes, and they can help to relieve the pain and shorten the attack if the drug is taken in the first twenty-four hours.

Can you take Meloxicam while pregnant?

For one, it is generally forbidden to use the drug in the first or last trimester of pregnancy, as it may affect the unborn child or lead to complications during labor or delivery. It is recommended to pregnant women to taper off meloxicam unless the physician confirms that it is needed.

Can you use mobic OD as a topical cream?

There are tablets and capsules for patients that will use the pill form, and there are liquid forms that can be used orally, by injection or as a topical cream. To avoid Mobic OD, dosage form and its quantity must be previously discussed with a physician.

Does Meloxicam inhibit COX-1?

The inhibition of COX-1 is primarily known to be responsible for it. Renal Effects: the prostaglandins suppressed by meloxicam are key regulators of water and sodium needed for proper renal function.

Does Meloxicam help with arthritis?

The function of meloxicam as arthritis medication in these scenarios is to block the enzymes that produce prostaglandins, consequently reducing the levels of prostaglandins in the body and reducing the symptoms mentioned earlier. The drug has been approved for use and circulation since the year 2000.

What does Meloxicam do?

It reduces the swelling, tenderness, and stiffness that comes from arthritis. Arthritis is the inflammation of the joints and can decrease mobility. While some people may want to use it for back pain, the FDA has only approved its use in reducing swelling, stiffness, and joint pain.

Is Meloxicam Addictive?

Meloxicam does not stimulate the brain the way that opioids and narcotic medications do. Because of this, Meloxicam is not considered addictive. It’s considered a safer alternative to other painkillers and can be a great option for people with arthritis if used correctly.

Is Meloxicam a Narcotic?

Meloxicam is not a narcotic. It’s a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). Its primary use is to treat inflammation, especially that caused by arthritis. Other uses of NSAIDs include reducing fever, treating pain, and sometimes as a blood thinner. This can be a good or bad quality depending on the need.

Alternatives to Meloxicam

There are many different prescriptions and non-prescription non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs on the market. There are also many different drugs to treat the inflammation associated with Rheumatoid and osteoarthritis. Ibuprofen, aspirin, and Aleve (naproxen sodium) are a few of the most common NSAIDs that are available over the counter.

Getting Help

Because Meloxicam is not considered an addictive drug, detoxing from it may not be necessary. Many doctors will allow their patients to go off Meloxicam cold-turkey. This means that you can stop taking it right away without the risk of harmful side effects.

Can Meloxicam cause side effects?

Meloxicam can cause mild or serious side effects. The following list contains some of the key side effects that may occur while taking meloxicam. This list does not include all possible side effects.

Can you take meloxicam and lithium together?

Taking lithium with meloxicam can cause amounts of lithium in your blood to increase to dangerous levels. Symptoms of lithium toxicity may include tremors, excessive thirst, or confusion. If you take these drugs together, your doctor may monitor your lithium levels.

Can Meloxicam be taken on dialysis?

For people receiving hemodial ysis: This drug isn’t removed in dialysis. Taking a typical dosage of meloxicam while receiving hemodialysis may cause a buildup of the drug in your blood. This could cause worsened side effects.

Does Meloxicam lower blood pressure?

Blood pressure drugs. Taking these medications with meloxicam may reduce the blood pressure-lowering effects of these drugs. Examples of these drugs include: angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), such as candesartan and valsartan. angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, such as benazepril and captopril.

Does Meloxicam cause bleeding?

Taking meloxicam with certain antidepressant and anxiety medications raises your risk of bleeding. Examples of these drugs include: selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, such as citalopram. selective serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, such as venlafaxine.

Is Meloxicam a prescription drug?

Meloxicam is a prescription drug. It comes in three forms: an oral tablet, an orally disintegrating tablet, and an oral capsule. Meloxicam oral tablet is available as the brand-name drug Mobic. Meloxicam orally disintegrating tablet is available as the brand-name drug Qmiiz ODT. Meloxicam oral tablet is also available as a generic drug.

Can you take Meloxicam if you have asthma?

Don’t take meloxicam if you have asthma, runny nose, and nasal polyps (aspirin triad). Don’t take it if you’ve had itching, trouble breathing, or an allergic reaction to aspirin or other NSAIDs. Don’t take this drug again if you’ve ever had an allergic reaction to it. Taking it again could be fatal (cause death).

How long does Meloxicam last?

An open-label study of 48 patients with neck and shoulder pain found that 1-3 injections of meloxicam may provide pain relief that lasts up to 90 days. In the study, the functional activity level of all patients increased after receiving the injection [ 21 ].

How long does it take for Meloxicam to work after gum surgery?

In a randomized trial of 60 patients with inflammatory gum disease, an adhesive film containing meloxicam was applied to the gums after gum surgery for 3 days. Researchers found that the higher doses of meloxicam film (30 and 45 mg) may reduce pain after dental surgery [ 22 ].

Does Meloxicam help with arthritis?

A number of clinical trials show that meloxicam can reduce pain and inflammation associated with this condition.

Is Meloxicam safe for RA?

When taken daily for 1.5 years, meloxicam was deemed safe, but about 1/3 of patients did experience stomach side effects [ 11 ].

Does Meloxicam affect the heart?

Meloxicam may have a lower risk of stomach side effects due to how it works [ 1 ].

Is Meloxicam a single dose?

Meloxicam is sometimes given as a single dose to reduce pain after surgery. However, a systematic review did not identify any strong clinical trials that support this use [ 24 ].

Can Meloxicam cause side effects?

Meloxicam can cause several side effects. If any side effects persist or worsen, let your doctor know. This is also not a complete list of possible side effects. Tell your doctor if you experience any serious side effects or notice any effects not listed here.

What is Meloxicam used for?

Expand Section. Meloxicam is used to relieve pain, tenderness, swelling, and stiffness caused by osteoarthritis (arthritis caused by a breakdown of the lining of the joints) and rheumatoid arthritis (arthritis caused by swelling of the lining of the joints).

What are the side effects of Meloxicam?

Meloxicam may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away: 1 diarrhea 2 constipation 3 gas 4 sore throat

How often should I take Meloxicam?

Meloxicam comes as a tablet and suspension (liquid) to take by mouth. It is usually taken once a day with or without food. Take meloxicam at the same time every day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand.

Can Meloxicam cause a heart attack?

People who take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) (other than aspirin) such as meloxicam may have a higher risk of having a heart attack , or a stroke than people who do not take these medications. These events may happen without warning and may cause death.

Can you take Meloxicam while pregnant?

Do not take meloxicam around or after 20 weeks of pregnancy, unless you are told to do so by your doctor. If you become pregnant while taking meloxicam, call your doctor.

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How It Works

Meloxicam is used to treat arthritis.

May Treat: Juvenile idiopathic arthritis · Osteoarthritis · Pain · Rheumatoid arthritis

Brand Names: Mobic · Vivlodex · Anjeso · Qmiiz ODT

Drug Class: NSAID Analgesics (COX Non-Specific) - Oxicam Derivatives

Availability: Prescription Required

Pregnancy: Consult a doctor before using

May Treat: Juvenile idiopathic arthritis · Osteoarthritis · Pain · Rheumatoid arthritis

Brand Names: Mobic · Vivlodex · Anjeso · Qmiiz ODT

Drug Class: NSAID Analgesics (COX Non-Specific) - Oxicam Derivatives

Availability: Prescription Required

Pregnancy: Consult a doctor before using

Lactation: Consult a doctor before using

Alcohol: Limit intake while taking this medication

Driving: May cause drowsiness or dizziness. Use caution

Precautions

  • Watch for bleeding, heart attack or stroke signs.
  • Avoid use in pregnancy from 20 weeks until birth
  • Limit alcohol consumption and stop using tobacco.

  • Watch for bleeding, heart attack or stroke signs.
  • Avoid use in pregnancy from 20 weeks until birth
  • Limit alcohol consumption and stop using tobacco.
  • Low dose daily aspirin ok Ask MD about other NSAIDs
  • For suspension, oral products : Shake well & measure with dosing spoon/cup/syringe. Call Dr if heartburn, or swallowing/stomach pain.
  • For tablet products : Before use, important to read the Medication Guide. Take with 8 oz. liquid. Do not lie down for 10min. May make you drowsy or dizzy. Drive with caution. Call Dr if you have black stools or stomach pain.
  • For tablet, disintegrating products : Peel open with dry hands & place tablet on tongue.
  • For vial products : Inject into a vein, not into muscle/under skin. May make you dizzy. Use caution when driving. Call MD if new abdominal pain/yellowing eyes/skin. Call doctor if you are not getting better.

Upsides

Downsides

Bottom Line

Tips

  1. Meloxicam may be used to relieve pain and inflammation associated with several different medical conditions, trauma, or surgery.
  2. Meloxicam works by blocking the effects of the enzymes cyclooxygenase (COX)-1 and COX-2 which prevents prostaglandin synthesis. Prostaglandins elevate body temperature and make nerve endings more s...
  1. Meloxicam may be used to relieve pain and inflammation associated with several different medical conditions, trauma, or surgery.
  2. Meloxicam works by blocking the effects of the enzymes cyclooxygenase (COX)-1 and COX-2 which prevents prostaglandin synthesis. Prostaglandins elevate body temperature and make nerve endings more s...
  3. Meloxicam belongs to a group of medicines known as NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs).

Response and Effectiveness

  1. Effective for the relief of pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
  2. May be used to treat menstrual cramps, headaches, colds, or flu symptoms.
  3. NSAIDs (including meloxicam) are considered first-line options for mild-to-moderate arthritis-type pain because at correct dosages they are effective, do not cause dependence, and are r…
  1. Effective for the relief of pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
  2. May be used to treat menstrual cramps, headaches, colds, or flu symptoms.
  3. NSAIDs (including meloxicam) are considered first-line options for mild-to-moderate arthritis-type pain because at correct dosages they are effective, do not cause dependence, and are readily avail...
  4. Relieves pain and inflammation.

Interactions

  • If you are between the ages of 18 and 60, take no other medication or have no other medical conditions, side effects you are more likely to experience include: 1. Stomach-related side effects including indigestion, heartburn, and bleeding. Constipation, diarrhea, flatulence, nausea, vomiting, or bleeding may also occur. People who are older, taking other medicines that affect the stomac…
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Further Information

  • Meloxicam is effective for the short-term relief of pain and inflammation associated with arthritis; however, like other NSAIDs, it has the potential to adversely affect the stomach or heart and increase bleeding tendency.
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