Meloxicam
Pronounced
"mel-OX-ih-cam"
Uses
Meloxicam is used to treat arthritis. It reduces pain, swelling, and stiffness of the joints. Meloxicam is known as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID).
If you are treating a chronic condition such as arthritis, ask your doctor about non-drug treatments and/or using other medications to treat your pain. See also Warning section.
Warning
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (including meloxicam) may rarely increase the risk of a heart attack or stroke. This effect can happen at any time while taking this drug but is more likely if you take it for a long time. The risk may be greater in older adults or if you have heart disease or increased risk for heart disease (for example, due to smoking, family history of heart disease, or conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes). Do not take this drug right before or after heart bypass surgery (CABG).
Also, this drug may rarely cause serious (rarely fatal) bleeding from the stomach or intestines. This effect can occur without warning symptoms at any time while taking this drug. Older adults may be at higher risk for this effect. (See also Precautions and Drug Interactions sections.)
Stop taking meloxicam and get medical help right away if you notice any of the following rare but serious side effects: stomach/abdominal pain that doesn't go away, bloody or black/tarry stools, vomit that looks like coffee grounds, chest/jaw/left arm pain, shortness of breath, unusual sweating, weakness on one side of the body, sudden vision changes, trouble speaking.
Talk with your doctor or pharmacist about the risks and benefits of treatment with this medication.
Other Uses
This section contains uses of this drug that are not listed in the approved professional labeling for the drug but that may be prescribed by your health care professional. Use this drug for a condition that is listed in this section only if it has been so prescribed by your health care professional.
This drug may also be used for gout attacks.
How to Use This Medication
Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you start taking meloxicam and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually once daily. If you are taking the tablet or capsule form of this medication, drink a full glass of water (8 ounces/240 milliliters) with it unless your doctor tells you otherwise. Do not lie down for at least 10 minutes after taking the tablet or capsule form of this medication.
If you are taking the liquid form of this medication, shake the bottle gently before each dose. Carefully measure the dose using a special measuring device/spoon. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose.
If you are taking the disintegrating tablet, do not remove the tablet from the packaging until you are ready to take it. With dry hands, peel back the foil to carefully remove the tablet. Do not push the tablet through the foil because doing so can damage it. Place the tablet on your tongue right away and allow it to dissolve. After the tablet has melted, it can be swallowed with or without liquid.
If stomach upset occurs while taking this medication, take it with food, milk, or an antacid. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. The lowest effective dosage should always be used, and only for the prescribed length of time. Do not take more of this medication than prescribed because higher doses increase the chance of stomach ulcers/bleeding.
Meloxicam may come in different forms (such as tablet, capsule, liquid, disintegrating tablet). Do not switch between different forms without consulting your doctor.
It may take up to two weeks before you get the full benefit of this drug. Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. Remember to use it at the same time each day.
Tell your doctor if your condition worsens.
Store & manage your medication list
Medication pricing updates
Import medication from your pharmacy
Pill & refill reminders
Medication journal & mood log