Meloxicam
Generic Name: Meloxicam
Uses & Medical Indications
Relief of signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis
Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis
Work Mechanism & Pharmacology
Patient Overview of Work Mechanism
Meloxicam calms inflammation and blocks chemical pain signals in the nervous system to deliver targeted relief from aches, fever, and stiffness.
Clinical Mechanism of Action (MoA)
Meloxicam reduces pain perception and inflammatory hyperalgesia by inhibiting cyclooxygenase-mediated prostaglandin synthesis or modulating central nociceptive transmission.
Dosage & Administration Guidelines
7.5 mg to 15 mg once daily
0.125 mg/kg once daily for JRA (max 7.5 mg/day)
Start with 7.5 mg daily
15 mg/day
Not recommended in advanced renal disease
No adjustment in mild/moderate; not studied in severe
Side Effects & Safety Warnings
Abdominal pain, diarrhea, dyspepsia, flatulence, nausea
GI bleeding, ulceration, cardiovascular thrombotic events, stroke
CABG surgery setting, history of asthma/urticaria after NSAIDs
Cardiovascular risk, GI risk, renal toxicity, hepatotoxicity
Interactions (Drugs, Food & Alcohol)
ACE inhibitors, ARBs, diuretics, anticoagulants, SSRIs
Can be taken with or without food
Increases risk of GI bleeding
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safety
Avoid at 30 weeks gestation and later due to premature closure of ductus arteriosus
Not recommended
Patient Counseling & Practical Advice
Report signs of GI bleeding. Avoid alcohol and other NSAIDs.
Take as soon as remembered. Skip if close to next dose.
CBC, chemistry profile (renal/hepatic), BP
Related Medicines in Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
When to Seek Urgent Medical Attention
Seek immediate emergency medical care (call emergency services or proceed to the nearest emergency department) if you experience signs of a life-threatening allergic reaction (anaphylaxis: facial, lip, tongue, or throat swelling causing airway obstruction), severe cutaneous blistering with skin peeling, sudden intense chest pain, or symptoms of overdose.
Content for Meloxicam was synthesized from standardized public health monographs, official pharmacopoeias, and health authorities:
- Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) — National List of Essential Medicines
- World Health Organization (WHO) — Model List of Essential Medicines
- Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC) — Indian Pharmacopoeia Drug Monographs
- National Health Service (NHS) — Medicines A to Z Clinical Guidelines
The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.