Meloxicam is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug or NSAID and is one of the prescription medications, known for its analgesic, anti-inflammatory as well as antipyretic characteristics. It is these properties that make meloxicam great for managing various types of arthritis and several other inflammatory conditions.
Read on to know all about its uses, side effects, and dosage for a comprehensive understanding of the medicine.
Meloxicam Uses
Meloxicam is mainly used to treat the following conditions:
- Osteoarthritis in adults
- Rheumatoid arthritis in adults
- Juvenile arthritis (also known as juvenile idiopathic arthritis) in children aged 2 years or more
These are all different forms of arthritis that are characterised by swelling, joint pain, and stiffness, thereby impairing daily activities and quality of life. Meloxicam, having anti-inflammatory properties, works by reducing inflammation and enhancing mobility and function.
Besides these meloxicam benefits, the medicine can also be prescribed to manage conditions such as pain and inflammation, as considered suitable by a healthcare professional. However, it may be noted here that although meloxicam can give symptomatic relief, it may not completely alleviate the condition and its progression.
Read further to know its side effects and dosage guidelines.
Meloxicam Dosage Guidelines
The dosage of meloxicam varies for individuals based on their age, disease or condition that is to be treated, and several other factors. It is consumed orally and comes both as a tablet and as liquid, letting you be flexible with the dose and consumption.
Here’s the typical meloxicam dosage:
- For adults: For adults who need the medicine for either of the two – osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis – the typical dosage will start from 7.5 mg once daily. This can, however, be increased to 15 mg daily based on the patient’s response and tolerance toward the medicine.
- For children: When meloxicam is used for children with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, the suitability of the dosage is based on the child’s weight. It is recommended that you give 7.5mg per kilogram of their body weight per day.
Because meloxicam can cause serious side effects in both adults and children, it should be consumed only after consultation with a healthcare professional. You must also ensure that you do not exceed the dosage that is recommended in both terms – amount and frequency.
Take meloxicam dosage as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for the next dose, a case where you can choose to let the forgotten dose get skipped and resume the regular dosing schedule.
Meloxicam Side Effects
The medicine comes with several benefits as discussed but it also has its own set of side effects which are important to be aware of before starting with its consumption. The side effects depend on one’s age, health conditions, and other medications being taken by the individuals.
The most common side effects of meloxicam are those related to the gastrointestinal system such as:
- Nausea
- Diarrhoea
- Indigestion
- Abdominal pain
These are comparatively mild. In fact, they can be managed by taking meloxicam with milk or food. There are other mild effects such as bloating, headache, skin rashes, sore throat, and an upper respiratory infection like a common cold.
Also, there are more serious side effects that are less common, such as gastrointestinal bleeding, kidney problems, ulcers, and an increased risk of stroke or heart attack. It can also cause high levels of potassium in the blood, liver damage, and high blood pressure. These effects are particularly more common in people who take meloxicam for prolonged periods or are already suffering from cardiovascular or gastrointestinal conditions.
You must be cautious of the meloxicam side effects and seek immediate medical help in case you experience the following:
- Black, bloody, or tarry stools
- Shortness of breath
- Coughing up blood or vomit that appears like coffee grounds
- Weakness
- Chest pain
- Slurred speech
Besides all this, the medication may also lead to certain allergic reactions and cause symptoms like breathing difficulties, itchiness, hives, flushing, and swelling of the lips, face, throat, or tongue. If any of this happens, it is again important to seek medical attention and immediately stop taking meloxicam.
Conclusion
Any medication can have benefits and potential side effects. Meloxicam is no different. Given so many meloxicam uses, it is a valuable asset when managing and treating conditions like pain and inflammation related to arthritis. However, it can cause side effects when regularity is not maintained with the dose. One must ensure to follow all guidelines given by his or her healthcare provider and maintain communication with them to minimise risks and ensure safe and effective usage.
