| name | Meloxicam |
| classification | Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug (NSAID) |
| pharmacokinetics | Meloxicam is rapidly absorbed following oral administration. Peak plasma concentrations are usually reached within 1-2 hours. It is highly protein-bound (approximately 99%) primarily to albumin. The drug is primarily metabolized in the liver, and the major metabolites are inactive. The elimination half-life is relatively long, approximately 15-20 hours, allowing for once-daily dosing in many cases. The elimination is primarily renal, with a small portion of metabolites excreted in the bile. |
| suggested dosage | | adult | | most common | 7.5-15 mg once daily | | alternatives | Other dosages may be used depending on indication and individual response. Consult with a physician or pharmacist. |
| | patient specific | The specific dosage should be determined by a healthcare professional, taking into account the patient's age, weight, renal function, concomitant medications, and underlying medical conditions. A 25-year-old male weighing 70 kg is generally considered a healthy adult, but individual responses may vary. |
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| indications | Meloxicam is used to relieve pain and inflammation in conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, acute gout, and other inflammatory conditions. It may also be used for postoperative pain management. |
| safety in pregnancy | Meloxicam is classified as a pregnancy category C. It should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Animal studies have shown adverse effects on the developing fetus in some cases. Consult a doctor immediately if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy. |
| safety in breastfeeding | Meloxicam is secreted into breast milk. Due to the potential for adverse effects on the nursing infant, breastfeeding is generally not recommended while taking meloxicam. Consult with your physician if you are breastfeeding. |
| side effects | | 1 | Gastrointestinal issues (e.g., nausea, heartburn, abdominal pain, ulcers, bleeding) | | 2 | Headache | | 3 | Dizziness | | 4 | Peripheral edema (swelling in the legs and feet) | | 5 | Hypertension | | 6 | Cardiovascular events (e.g., myocardial infarction, stroke) | | 7 | Renal impairment | | 8 | Skin reactions (e.g., rash, itching) | | 9 | Fluid retention |
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| alternatives | |
| contraindications | | 1 | History of hypersensitivity to meloxicam or other NSAIDs | | 2 | Active peptic ulcer or gastrointestinal bleeding | | 3 | Severe renal or hepatic impairment | | 4 | Patients with a known history of cardiovascular disease, including previous myocardial infarction, stroke, or angina | | 5 | History of asthma, urticaria, or other allergic reactions | | 6 | Current or recent bleeding or clotting disorders | | 7 | Severe heart failure |
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| interactions | Meloxicam can interact with several other medications, including diuretics, anticoagulants, and certain other NSAIDs. It is important to inform your doctor of all medications and supplements you are taking, including herbal remedies. |
| warnings and precautions | | 1 | Regular monitoring of blood pressure and renal function is important, especially in elderly patients or those with pre-existing renal disease | | 2 | Close monitoring for signs of gastrointestinal bleeding (e.g., dark stools, abdominal pain, or vomiting blood) is crucial. | | 3 | Patients with a history of cardiovascular disease should use with extreme caution and under close medical supervision. | | 4 | Long-term use may increase risk of cardiovascular events. Adjust dosage and duration of therapy based on patient response and risk factors. |
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| additional informations | Consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns. This information is not a substitute for professional medical advice. |
