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Meloxicam: Uses, Dosage, and Warnings

May 3, 2025

Meloxicam Overview

Generic and Brand Names

  • Generic Name: Meloxicam (oral/injection)
  • Brand Names: Anjeso, Mobic, Vivlodex, Qmiiz ODT

Dosage Forms

  • Intravenous dispersion (30 mg/mL)
  • Oral capsule (10 mg; 5 mg)
  • Oral suspension (7.5 mg/5 mL)

Drug Class

  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

Uses

  • Relieves pain, tenderness, swelling, and stiffness caused by osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
  • Treats juvenile rheumatoid arthritis in children 2 years and older.
  • Anjeso brand treats moderate to severe pain in adults.
  • Vivlodex for adults only. Qmiiz ODT for adults and children weighing at least 132 pounds.

Warnings

  • Increases risk of fatal heart attack or stroke, especially with long-term use or in those with heart disease.
  • Not for use before or after heart bypass surgery (CABG).
  • Risk of stomach or intestinal bleeding, potentially fatal, especially in older adults.
  • Symptoms to watch for: chest pain, slurred speech, vision problems, and black or bloody stools.

Before Taking Meloxicam

  • Contraindicated in those allergic to NSAIDs or with a history of asthma attacks from aspirin.
  • Consult a doctor if you have heart disease, high blood pressure, ulcers, kidney or liver disease, or fluid retention.
  • Not advised during pregnancy or for those undergoing fertility treatment.
  • Not approved for children under 2 years.

Dosage and Administration

  • Follow doctor's prescription exactly, using the lowest effective dose.
  • Oral forms are taken by mouth; injections by healthcare provider.
  • Doses may need adjustment with weight changes.
  • Store at room temperature, tightly closed.

Dosage Information

  • Osteoarthritis: 7.5 mg once daily, max 15 mg.
  • Rheumatoid Arthritis: 7.5 mg once daily, max 15 mg.
  • Pain in Adults: 30 mg IV bolus once daily.
  • Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis (age 2+): 7.5 mg once daily if 60 kg or more.

Missed Dose & Overdose

  • Take missed dose as soon as possible unless close to next dose. Do not double dose.
  • Overdose: Seek emergency help or call Poison Help line.

Avoid While Taking Meloxicam

  • Alcohol, as it increases risk of stomach bleeding.
  • Aspirin unless prescribed.
  • Certain other pain relievers without doctor advice.

Side Effects

  • Serious: Allergic reactions, heart attack signs, stomach bleeding, liver problems, anemia, kidney issues.
  • Common: Stomach pain, nausea, diarrhea, dizziness, cold symptoms.

Drug Interactions

  • Increased bruising/bleeding risk with certain antidepressants.
  • Interacts with cyclosporine, lithium, methotrexate, blood thinners, diuretics, steroids, etc.

FAQs

  • Can be taken any time of the day, with or without food.
  • Not interchangeable between different forms or brands.
  • Interactions with other drugs can be checked using a Drug Interaction Checker.

Further Information

  • Keep out of reach of children.
  • Consult healthcare provider for personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer