Meloxicam is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) indicated for the treatment of pain and inflammatory conditions. Meloxicam is available in many brands including Anjeso (30mg/mL IV infusion), Vivlodex (5mg and 10mg capsule), and Qmiiz (7.5mg and 15mg orally disintegrating tablet).
How does meloxicam work?
Meloxicam prevents the synthesis of prostaglandin by blocking the activities of cyclooxygenase enzymes (COX). Prostaglandin is a chemical responsible for pain and inflammation in the body.
What are the uses of meloxicam?
Meloxicam is used for the treatment of pain and inflammatory conditions caused by rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis in adults. It is also used for juvenile rheumatoid arthritis in children aged 2 years and up.
What is the dose of meloxicam?
Take meloxicam as prescribed by your doctor. The dose of meloxicam depends on the indication and the dosage form you are taking. Examples of how meloxicam is used for different conditions include:
- osteoarthritis: Mobic or Qmiiz 7.5mg – 15mg are taken daily by mouth without exceeding 15mg/day; while Vivlodex 5mg is taken daily orally without exceeding 10mg/day
- rheumatoid arthritis: Mobic or Qmiiz 7.5mg – 15mg are taken daily by mouth without exceeding 15mg/day
- moderate to severe pain: Anjeso 30m IV daily
- juvenile idiopathic arthritis: Mobic tablet 0.125mg/kg is taken daily orally without exceeding 7.5mg/day; Qmiiz 7.5mg is taken daily orally
Please note the following:
- Your doctor may change your dose for the best result.
- Your dose may change if you change brands and dosage form.
- Meloxicam is dosed by weight, especially in children and teenagers.
- You should only use the minimum effective dose and not for a longer period than recommended.
Can I take meloxicam without food?
You may take meloxicam with or without food. However, if it upsets your stomach, take it with food.
Can I chew orally disintegrating tablets?
No. Remove the orally disintegrating tablet from the package when you are ready to use it, place it in your mouth without chewing, and swallow it as the tablet dissolves.
What happens if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is close to the next dose, skip the missed dose. Don't take an extra dose to account for the missed dose.
What happens if I overdose?
If you overdose on meloxicam, call for emergency medical attention immediately or call the Poison Help Line at 1-800-222-1222.
What are the possible interactions with meloxicam?
The following drugs may have fatal interactions with meloxicam. Talk to your healthcare provider if you are on them.
- aspirin
- cyclosporine
- lithium (Eskalith)
- methotrexate (Trexall)
- warfarin (Coumarin)
- ketorolac (Acular)
- captopril (Capoten)
- albuterol
The list is not exhaustive; always ask your pharmacist or doctor. Also, ask your doctor or pharmacist before taking other medicines for pain, fever, or cold/flu as they may contain similar active ingredients as meloxicam.
What are the side effects of meloxicam?
Side effects of meloxicam include:
- indigestion
- heartburn
- diarrhea and constipation
- nausea and vomiting
- hypertension
- congestive heart failure
- fever
- dizziness
Stop using meloxicam and seek medical help if you experience:
- allergic reactions such as skin rash
- shortness of breath
- stomach bleeding (bloody stool, coughing blood, etc.)
- liver problems (itching, dark urine, jaundice, etc.)
- kidney problems (swelling ankle, painful urination, etc.)
Check out necessary precautions and warnings to remember while taking meloxicam.
How much does meloxicam cost?
The cost of meloxicam can be as high as $59.12 for 60 tablets. The cost depends on the quantity, brand, and location. However, you can save up to 88% by using our free RxLess prescription savings card - patients who use our savings card pay an average price of just $25.
