Meloxicam

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Generic Name of Meloxicam - Learn More

Meloxicam

Meloxicam Precaution - What You Need to Know

Before using Meloxicam, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider to ensure it is appropriate for you, particularly if you have any of the following conditions:

- Gastrointestinal Issues:
- Meloxicam belongs to the class of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and can increase the risk of developing gastric ulcers, bleeding, or perforation in the gastrointestinal tract, especially in individuals with a history of peptic ulcers or gastrointestinal bleeding.
- Caution is needed for those who have a history of gastrointestinal disorders such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis.

- Cardiovascular Risk:
- Meloxicam may increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, or heart failure, particularly when taken in high doses or over long periods. It should be used cautiously in individuals with a history of hypertension, heart disease, or stroke.
- It can also cause fluid retention, which may worsen existing heart conditions.

- Renal (Kidney) Issues:
- Long-term use of Meloxicam can impair kidney function, especially in patients who are elderly or have pre-existing kidney disease. Regular monitoring of kidney function is essential during treatment.
- Meloxicam should be avoided in individuals with severe kidney disease.

- Pregnancy and Lactation:
- Meloxicam is classified as Category C in pregnancy (for the first and second trimesters) and Category D (for the third trimester), meaning it can cause harm to the fetus, particularly in the third trimester. It should be avoided during pregnancy unless deemed absolutely necessary by a healthcare provider.
- Meloxicam passes into breast milk and should be avoided while breastfeeding, unless the benefits outweigh the risks.

- Allergic Reactions:
- People with a known allergy to NSAIDs or aspirin should avoid Meloxicam, as it may cause severe allergic reactions like anaphylaxis or rash.

Meloxicam Indication - Uses and Benefits

Meloxicam is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) commonly used to relieve pain and inflammation associated with the following conditions:

- Osteoarthritis:
- Meloxicam is often prescribed to manage symptoms of osteoarthritis, including joint pain, stiffness, and swelling, helping improve mobility and function.

- Rheumatoid Arthritis:
- It is used for rheumatoid arthritis to reduce inflammation and pain in the joints, making it easier for individuals to perform daily activities.

- Acute Pain:
- Meloxicam is effective for acute pain, such as post-surgical pain or musculoskeletal injuries, offering relief from discomfort and inflammation.

- Ankylosing Spondylitis:
- Meloxicam is used to treat symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis, a form of arthritis that primarily affects the spine, causing pain and stiffness.

- Other Inflammatory Conditions:
- It may also be used to treat conditions like bursitis or tendinitis, where inflammation of the soft tissues causes pain and swelling.

Meloxicam Contraindications - Important Warnings

There are several situations where Meloxicam should not be used:

- Hypersensitivity:
- It is contraindicated in individuals who are allergic to Meloxicam, aspirin, or other NSAIDs, as it may trigger severe allergic reactions, including bronchospasm, angioedema, or anaphylaxis.

- Gastrointestinal Bleeding or Ulceration:
- Meloxicam should not be used in patients with active gastric ulcers, gastrointestinal bleeding, or a history of peptic ulcers due to the increased risk of gastrointestinal perforation and bleeding.

- Severe Liver Disease:
- Meloxicam is contraindicated in individuals with severe liver disease, as it can cause further liver dysfunction or toxicity.

- Severe Renal Impairment:
- It should not be used in individuals with severe kidney disease or those who are at risk for acute renal failure.

- Pregnancy (Third Trimester):
- Meloxicam should be avoided during the third trimester of pregnancy due to the risk of premature closure of the fetal ductus arteriosus, which can cause serious complications for the baby.

Meloxicam Side Effects - What to Expect

Like other NSAIDs, Meloxicam can cause a variety of side effects:

- Common Side Effects:
- Gastrointestinal Issues: Indigestion, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea.
- Headache: A common side effect, which can sometimes be severe.
- Dizziness or Lightheadedness: Especially in the elderly or when standing up quickly.

- Serious Side Effects:
- Gastrointestinal Bleeding: Meloxicam increases the risk of developing gastric ulcers or gastrointestinal bleeding, which can be life-threatening.
- Kidney Damage: Chronic use of Meloxicam may lead to kidney toxicity or renal failure, especially in people with pre-existing kidney issues.
- Cardiovascular Risk: Long-term use can increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, and high blood pressure.
- Liver Damage: Liver toxicity, indicated by jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes) and dark urine, can occur in rare cases.
- Severe Allergic Reactions: Anaphylaxis, angioedema (swelling of the face, lips, or throat), or skin rash can occur, requiring immediate medical attention.

Meloxicam Pregnancy Category ID - Safety Information

3

Meloxicam Mode of Action - How It Works

Meloxicam works by inhibiting cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, specifically COX-2, which is responsible for the production of prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are chemicals in the body that mediate inflammation, pain, and fever. By inhibiting the COX-2 enzyme, Meloxicam reduces the production of these prostaglandins, resulting in decreased inflammation, pain, and fever.

Unlike older NSAIDs, Meloxicam has a selective inhibition of COX-2 over COX-1, which helps reduce the risk of gastrointestinal irritation and ulcers. This selectivity is why it is often preferred for managing inflammatory conditions with less gastrointestinal side effects compared to non-selective NSAIDs.

Meloxicam Drug Interactions - What to Avoid

Meloxicam can interact with several drugs, potentially reducing its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects:

- Antihypertensive Medications:
- Meloxicam can reduce the effectiveness of antihypertensive drugs, including ACE inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), diuretics, and beta-blockers, leading to potential increases in blood pressure.

- Anticoagulants and Antiplatelet Drugs:
- Meloxicam may increase the risk of bleeding when taken with anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin) or antiplatelet medications (e.g., aspirin, clopidogrel). The combination should be closely monitored.

- Other NSAIDs:
- Meloxicam should not be combined with other NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen) due to the increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding and kidney damage.

- Lithium:
- Meloxicam can increase lithium blood levels, potentially leading to lithium toxicity, which can cause severe side effects.

- Methotrexate:
- The combination of Meloxicam with methotrexate (used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and cancer) can increase the risk of methotrexate toxicity, leading to adverse effects on the bone marrow, liver, and kidneys.

- Corticosteroids:
- Taking Meloxicam with corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone) increases the risk of gastrointestinal ulcers and bleeding.

Meloxicam Pregnancy Category Note - Key Information

Pregnancy category: C; D in third trimester of pregnancy; drug should be avoided in late pregnancy

Meloxicam Adult Dose - Recommended Dosage

For adults, the typical dose of Meloxicam is:

- Osteoarthritis:
- 7.5 mg once daily, which may be increased to 15 mg per day based on the patient's response and tolerance.

- Rheumatoid Arthritis:
- 7.5 mg once daily, with the option to increase the dose to 15 mg per day if necessary.

- Acute Pain:
- The dose may vary depending on the severity of the pain, with the typical dose being 7.5-15 mg once daily.

- Ankylosing Spondylitis:
- 7.5 mg once daily, which may be increased to 15 mg depending on patient response.

Meloxicam Child Dose - Dosage for Children

Meloxicam is generally not recommended for use in children under 2 years of age. For children aged 2 to 16 years, the dosage is typically based on weight:

- For children weighing 10-25 kg (22-55 lbs):
- 7.5 mg once daily.

- For children weighing over 25 kg (55 lbs):
- The adult dose of 7.5-15 mg once daily is appropriate, depending on the severity of the condition.

Meloxicam should always be prescribed and monitored by a healthcare provider to ensure proper use and minimize potential risks.

Meloxicam Renal Dose - Dosage for Kidney Conditions

In patients with mild to moderate renal impairment, no dosage adjustment is typically required. However, Meloxicam should be used with caution in individuals with severe

renal impairment, and the dose may need to be reduced or avoided altogether.