Meloxicam
Description:
Meloxicam is a prescription nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is used to relieve pain and inflammation due to several musculoskeletal disorders. It is commonly prescribed to patients suffering from osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and juvenile idiopathic arthritis. Meloxicam inhibits the enzymes that produce prostaglandins. These are some chemicals that mediate inflammation and pain in the body. It is available in both tablet and oral suspension forms but is usually prescribed for once-daily administration because of its long-acting nature.
Clinical Uses:
Primary Uses:
Meloxicam is mainly used for osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, helping with joint stiffness, swelling, and pain, and thus restoring patient mobility and quality of life in chronic inflammatory conditions.
It is also approved for children over 2 years with juvenile idiopathic arthritis. By controlling inflammation, it allows affected children to remain active with less pain.
Sometimes, it is also used for pain treatment of a general musculoskeletal nature, especially if inflammation is a major factor. Such would include back pain, tendonitis, and other operative recovery.
Off-Label Uses:
Off-label use of Meloxicam includes ankylosing spondylitis, gout flares, and certain types of headache pains when it is believed that inflammation plays a role. These uses depend on clinical judgment and patient background.
How Does Meloxicam Work?:
Mechanism of Action:
Meloxicam selectively inhibits cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) over cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1), thereby decreasing the production of prostaglandins, which are chemical messengers responsible for the actions of inflammation, swelling, and pain.
Decreasing the levels of these mediators has been a way in which Meloxicam has helped alleviate the conditions associated with chronic inflammation while at the same time avoiding gastrointestinal side effects that occur due to the use of older NSAIDs that inhibited both enzymes non-selectively.
Dosage and Administration
Recommended Dosage:
For osteoarthritis, the 7.5 mg dose may suffice. Whereas, in the case of rheumatoid arthritis, the full 15 mg dose is required. In cases of juvenile idiopathic arthritis in children, weight is considered while dosing, which ranges from 0.125 mg/kg to 0.25 mg/kg once a day.
Administration Instructions:
The time of intake of Meloxicam should remain the same from day to day. It can be taken with or without food. The use of food/milk might help reduce gastrointestinal upset. Tablets are to be swallowed whole with a glass of water. Unless instructed, crushing is to be avoided. The steady use of Meloxicam daily is vital for the long-term control of symptoms.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects:
Meloxicam may cause mild side effects, including upset stomach, nausea, diarrhea, dizziness, or headache. Generally, these symptoms improved after continued use or after taking them with food.
Serious Side Effects:
Severe side effects may include gastrointestinal bleeding, ulcers, increased liver enzymes, renal impairment, or hypertension. Rarely, they can cause serious skin reactions or allergic reactions, such as swelling of the face or difficulty breathing. Long-term usage may predispose an individual toward cardiovascular events, including myocardial infarction or stroke.
Warnings and Precautions
Warnings:
Meloxicam has an FDA black box warning regarding the potential for serious cardiovascular thrombotic events and gastrointestinal bleeding. Patients with a history of heart disease, ulcers, and bleeding problems should take Meloxicam with caution and only under the supervision of a medical doctor.
Precautions:
Persons with kidney and liver problems, asthma, or hypertension should consult their doctors before starting treatment with Meloxicam. It should be avoided in late pregnancy because it can affect circulation in the fetus. It is advisable to routinely monitor kidney function and blood pressure during prolonged therapy.
Drug Interactions
Medications to Avoid:
Meloxicam ought not to be administered with other NSAIDs such as ibuprofen, naproxen, or aspirin, since their concomitant use would increase the incidence of bleeding or kidney injury. The concomitant use of blood-thinning drugs like warfarin or corticosteroids like prednisone may also increase the risk of gastrointestinal complications.
Alcohol:
Taking alcohol while on treatment with Meloxicam increases the chance of stomach bleeding. Patients are recommended to limit alcohol consumption, especially those on long-term treatment.
Treatment of Missed Doses and Overdose
Missed Dose:
Take the missed dose as soon as remembered, unless it is almost time for the next scheduled dose. If so, skip the missed dose. Never take two doses at the same time.
Overdose:
The symptoms would include drowsiness, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, or trouble breathing in severe cases of overdose, with the potential for gastrointestinal bleeding, renal failure, or even coma. An overdose is a medical emergency.
Storage and Disposal
Storage Conditions:
Store Meloxicam at room temperature in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep away from children and pets. Do not store in the bathroom.
Disposal Method:
Meloxicam tablets should not be flushed down the toilet or poured down the drain. Disposing of expired or unused medicine via a pharmacy take-back program or according to local disposal laws is appropriate.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How can I order Diclofenac online?
Meloxicam requires a doctor’s prescription and can be obtained from licensed pharmacies such as Rapid RX, and local pharmacies. Be sure to check credentials before purchasing from any pharmacy.
What are the dosages for Meloxicam?
Meloxicam is commonly offered in 7.5-mg and 15-mg tablets and may sometimes be available as an oral suspension, particularly for pediatric patients.
Can Meloxicam be taken with food?
Yes. Taking Meloxicam with food or milk can help reduce the chances of nausea and irritation in the gut.
How long does it take Meloxicam to start working?
Meloxicam will start working within a few hours, although complete anti-inflammatory effects may take a few days of regular usage. It is not meant to be used for immediate pain-relieving purposes like opioids or fast-acting analgesics.
Does Meloxicam make one drowsy?
Drowsiness is not a common side effect. Dizziness or fatigue may occur in some people, but as an individual effect, so it is good to see how the medication affects you before you use machinery or drive.
What should I avoid while taking Meloxicam?
Do not take it with any other NSAIDs, excessive alcohol, or any medications that can increase bleeding risk, unless directed by your doctor. Don’t forget to hydrate and inform your doctor of any side effects.
Is Meloxicam a Steroid or Opioid?
No. Meloxicam is an NSAID (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug), which means it doesn’t have the addictive potential and hormonal effects related to opioids or steroids.
Customer Reviews
“I take 15 mg Meloxicam every morning for arthritis and I’m able to move around pain-free by midday. It’s been a huge help.”
- Susan R., WebMD
“Helps with my chronic back pain. I just make sure to eat before I take it to avoid stomach issues.”
- James T., Drugs.com
“It reduced my joint swelling within a week. No major side effects so far. Way better than ibuprofen for me.”
- Angela P., Everyday Health
“I was worried about my blood pressure but with regular monitoring and a lower dose, Meloxicam has worked really well.”
- Raymond K., Healthgrades
“I take it at night because it makes me a little tired. Otherwise, it helps control my flare-ups from rheumatoid arthritis.”
- Maya C., Mayo Clinic Reviews
