Meloxicam

Meloxicam Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Meloxicam is a brand name. Its generic name is Meloxicam.

Meloxicam

Meloxicam is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to treat pain and inflammation of the joints and muscles. It may also be used to treat other conditions as determined by your doctor.

Uses For Meloxicam

Meloxicam is used to reduce pain, swelling, and joint stiffness caused by osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. It is also used to relieve other types of short-term pain including menstrual cramps and pain due to injury. Meloxicam is also used to reduce the symptoms of migraine pain and certain other types of chronic pain.

Mechanism of Action

Meloxicam belongs to a class of drugs called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). It works by blocking the production of certain chemicals in the body that are responsible for pain and inflammation. This effect reduces swelling and pain.

How Long Does It Take To Work?

Meloxicam typically begins to provide relief from pain and inflammation within 24-48 hours of taking it. However, complete relief may take up to two weeks or longer.

Absorption

Meloxicam is quickly and nearly completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. It has an absolute bioavailability of approximately 90%.

Route of Elimination

Meloxicam is metabolized in the liver and mostly eliminated unchanged in the urine. Some of it may also be eliminated through the bile.

Dosage

Meloxicam is available in oral tablets in doses of 7.5 mg, 15 mg, or 20 mg. It is also available in oral suspesion form in doses of 0.5 mg/ml, 1 mg/ml, and 1.5 mg/ml. The usual adult dosage for pain relief is 7.5-15 mg once daily.

Administration

Meloxicam can be taken with or without food. The suspension should be administered with food or milk.

Side Effect

Common side effects of Meloxicam include upset stomach, nausea, diarrhea, headache, and dizziness. Other side effects may include rash, itching, swelling, edema, and decreased urination. Serious side effects include difficulty breathing, chest pain, joint pain, and dark colored urine.

Toxicity

The most serious toxicity associated with Meloxicam is kidney failure. Long-term use or excessive doses of Meloxicam can cause kidney failure. Other serious adverse effects include anemia, bleeding, and increased risk of heart attack and stroke.

Precaution

Before taking Meloxicam, tell your doctor if you have any type of bleeding or clotting disorder, kidney or liver disease, high blood pressure, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Also tell your doctor if you are taking any other medications, including over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, or natural remedies.

Interaction

Meloxicam can interact with other medications, including prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal products. It can also interact with certain foods and drinks, including alcohol. Tell your doctor about all medications and supplements you are taking.

Disease Interaction

Meloxicam may interact with diseases such as asthma, lupus, and congestive heart failure. It may also interact with conditions such as history of stroke, liver disease, or stomach or intestinal ulcers.

Drug Interaction

Meloxicam may interact with other drugs, such as warfarin, cyclosporine, aspirin, anticoagulants, and diuretics. It can also interact with certain antibiotics, antidepressants, and NSAIDs. Tell your doctor about all drugs you are taking.

Food Interactions

Meloxicam may interact with certain foods. Avoid foods high in sodium and potassium, such as processed and canned foods, processed meats, and dairy products. Avoid alcohol, as it can increase the risk of stomach bleeding.

Pregnancy Use

Meloxicam is not recommended for use during pregnancy unless clearly necessary. If you are pregnant, discuss the risks and benefits of taking Meloxicam with your doctor.

Lactation Use

It is not known if Meloxicam passes into breast milk. If you are breastfeeding, discuss the risks and benefits of taking Meloxicam with your doctor.

Acute Overdose

Common symptoms of an acute overdose include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. More severe symptoms include dizziness, drowsiness, confusion, seizures, and shock.

Contraindication

Meloxicam should not be used in certain patients, such as those with bleeding disorders, active stomach or intestinal ulcers, or those who have taken certain medications within the last two weeks. Also, these medications should not be used in children and pregnant or breastfeeding women.

Use Direction

Take Meloxicam exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take it in larger amounts or for longer than recommended. Also, be sure to tell your doctor if you are taking any other medication or supplements.

Storage Condition

Store Meloxicam at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep the medicine in a closed container. Do not freeze the suspension.

Volume of Distribution

The volume of distribution is not known for Meloxicam.

Half Life

The half-life of Meloxicam is approximately 18-24 hours.

Clearance

The clearance of Meloxicam is not known.

Here you find in details version of Meloxicam

Some Frequently Asked Questions About Meloxicam

What is Meloxicam?

Meloxicam is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to relieve symptoms of arthritis such as inflammation, stiffness, and joint pain.

How does Meloxicam work?

Meloxicam works by blocking the body’s production of substances that cause inflammation. This reduces inflammation, pain, and stiffness in the arthritic joints.

What are the side effects of Meloxicam?

Common side effects of Meloxicam include nausea, diarrhoea, constipation, headache, dizziness, stomach upset, abdominal pain, and gas. Other serious side effects include kidney failure, liver damage, increased risk of bleeding, and increased risk for heart attack and stroke.

Is Meloxicam available over-the-counter?

No, Meloxicam is not available over-the-counter. You must get a prescription from your doctor in order to purchase Meloxicam.

How long does it take for Meloxicam to start working?

It usually takes a few days for Meloxicam to start working, but it may take weeks for the full effects to be seen.

Can I take Meloxicam if I have a history of heart problems?

No, you should not take Meloxicam if you have or have had heart problems. Talk to your doctor to get further advice.

Can I take Meloxicam while pregnant?

No, you should not take Meloxicam while pregnant as it could harm the unborn baby. Talk to your doctor to get further advice.

Can I drink alcohol while taking Meloxicam?

No, you should not drink alcohol while taking Meloxicam as it could increase the risk of side effects such as stomach bleeding and liver damage.

How long can I take Meloxicam for?

Meloxicam should not be taken for more than 6 weeks without a break. Talk to your doctor if you need to take it for longer.

Can I take Meloxicam with other medications?

You should not take Meloxicam with any other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Talk to your doctor if you are unsure about taking other medications along with Meloxicam.

Can I take Meloxicam if I am allergic to aspirin?

Yes, you can take Meloxicam if you are allergic to aspirin as they are different medications. However, you should talk to your doctor if you are unsure.

How much Meloxicam should I take?

The dosage of Meloxicam will depend on your condition and the severity of your symptoms. Talk to your doctor for advice on the amount of Meloxicam that is right for you.

Can Meloxicam be used to treat pain other than arthritis?

Yes, Meloxicam may be used to treat other forms of pain, such as pain caused by injury or inflammation. Talk to your doctor if you have any other forms of pain.

Can Meloxicam be taken with food?

Yes, Meloxicam can be taken with or without food. It is recommended that it is taken with a full glass of water to prevent stomach upset.

Can Meloxicam be taken long-term?

No, Meloxicam should not be taken long-term without taking a break. Talk to your doctor to discuss the best treatment plan for your condition.

Can Meloxicam cause depression?

In some cases, Meloxicam can cause depression, although it is rare. Talk to your doctor if you experience any mood changes while taking Meloxicam.

Is Meloxicam addictive?

No, Meloxicam is not addictive. It does not cause physical or psychological dependence.

Can Meloxicam cause kidney or liver damage?

Yes, Meloxicam can cause kidney and liver damage in some cases. Talk to your doctor if you experience any symptoms of kidney or liver problems while taking Meloxicam.

Can Meloxicam cause weight gain?

No, Meloxicam does not usually cause weight gain. If you experience any weight gain while taking Meloxicam, talk to your doctor.

How can I reduce the side effects of Meloxicam?

The best way to reduce the side effects of Meloxicam is to take the lowest possible dose and to take the medication for the shortest period of time. Talk to your doctor if you are concerned about the side effects of Meloxicam.

How should Meloxicam be stored?

Meloxicam should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct light and out of reach of children. Talk to your pharmacist for more information on the storage of Meloxicam.

Can Meloxicam affect my cholesterol levels?

Yes, Meloxicam can increase cholesterol levels. If you have high cholesterol levels, talk to your doctor about alternatives to Meloxicam.

Can Meloxicam be taken for headaches or migraines?

No, Meloxicam should not be taken for headaches or migraines. Talk to your doctor for advice on alternative treatments.

Can Meloxicam be used to treat fever?

No, Meloxicam should not be used to treat fever. Talk to your doctor for advice on alternative treatments.

Can I take Meloxicam if I have high blood pressure?

Yes, you can take Meloxicam if you have high blood pressure, but it may increase your blood pressure. Talk to your doctor if you are concerned about your blood pressure while taking Meloxicam.

Can I take Meloxicam if I am taking other medications?

You should not take Meloxicam if you are taking other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Talk to your doctor if you are unsure about taking other medications along with Meloxicam.

Can Meloxicam be used to treat gout?

Yes, Meloxicam can be used to treat gout. Talk to your doctor for advice on the best treatment plan for your condition.

What is the difference between Meloxicam and ibuprofen?

The main difference between Meloxicam and ibuprofen is that Meloxicam is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) and ibuprofen is an over-the-counter pain reliever. Talk to your doctor to determine which medication is right for you.

Does Meloxicam help with swelling or inflammation?

Yes, Meloxicam can help relieve swelling or inflammation caused by arthritis. Talk to your doctor for advice on the best treatment plan for your condition.

Can Meloxicam be taken by children?

No, Meloxicam is not recommended for use in children. Talk to your doctor for advice on alternative treatments.

Does Meloxicam work immediately?

No, Meloxicam usually takes a few days to start working, although it may take weeks for the full effects to be seen. Talk to your doctor for advice on the best treatment plan for your condition.

Can Meloxicam be used for menstrual pain?

No, Meloxicam should not be used for menstrual pain. Talk to your doctor for advice on alternative treatments.

Can Meloxicam cause drowsiness?

Yes, Meloxicam can cause drowsiness in some cases. If you experience drowsiness while taking Meloxicam, talk to your doctor.

Can I take Meloxicam while breastfeeding?

No, you should not take Meloxicam while breastfeeding as it could pass into your breast milk and harm your baby. Talk to your doctor for advice on alternative treatments.

Can Meloxicam be taken with paracetamol?

Yes, Meloxicam can be taken with paracetamol. However, you should talk to your doctor if you are unsure.

Is Meloxicam safe for the elderly?

Yes, Meloxicam is safe for the elderly when taken as prescribed by a doctor. Talk to your doctor for advice on the best treatment plan for your condition.

Can Meloxicam cause constipation?

Yes, Meloxicam can cause constipation in some cases. Talk to your doctor if you experience any constipation while taking Meloxicam.

Can Meloxicam cause dizziness?

Yes, Meloxicam can cause dizziness in some cases. Talk to your doctor if you experience any dizziness while taking Meloxicam.

Can I take Meloxicam if I have diabetes?

Yes, you can take Meloxicam if you have diabetes, but it may increase your blood sugar levels. Talk to your doctor if you are concerned about your blood sugar levels while taking Meloxicam.

Does Meloxicam have any interactions with other medications?

Yes, Meloxicam can interact with certain medications, including some over-the-counter drugs. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist for advice on any interactions with Meloxicam.