Meloxicam

What it is and how it works

Mechanism of Action Meloxicam has analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antipyretic properties. The mechanism of action of meloxicam, like that of other NSAIDs, is not completely understood but involves inhibition of cyclooxygenase (COX-1 and COX-2). Meloxicam is a potent inhibitor of prostaglandin synthesis in vitro . Meloxicam concentrations reached during therapy have produced in vivo effects. Prostaglandins sensitize afferent nerves and potentiate the action of bradykinin in inducing pain in animal models. Prostaglandins are mediators of inflammation.

Mechanism class: Cyclooxygenase Inhibitors

Indications

Meloxicam tablet USP is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug indicated for: Osteoarthritis (OA) Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis (JRA) in patients who weigh ≥60 kg Osteoarthritis (OA Meloxicam tablets USP are indicated for relief of the signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis . Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) Meloxicam tablets USP are indicated for relief of the signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis . Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis (JRA) Pauciarticular and Polyarticular Course Meloxicam tablets USP are indicated for relief of the signs and symptoms of pauciarticular or polyarticular course Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis in patients who weigh ≥60 kg .

Dosage and administration (summary)

Use the lowest effective dosage for the shortest duration consistent with individual patient treatment goals OA and RA : Starting dose: 7.5 mg once daily Dose may be increased to 15 mg once daily JRA : 7.5 mg once daily in children ≥60 kg Meloxicam Tablets are not interchangeable with approved formulations of oral meloxicam even if the total milligram strength is the same General Dosing Instructions Carefully consider the potential benefits and risks of meloxicam tablets and other treatment options before deciding to use meloxicam tablets. Use the lowest effective dosage for the shortest duration consistent with individual patient treatment goals .

Contraindications

Meloxicam is contraindicated in the following patients: Known hypersensitivity (e.g., anaphylactic reactions and serious skin reactions) to meloxicam or any components of the drug product History of asthma, urticaria, or other allergic-type reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs.

Warnings and precautions

Hepatotoxicity : Inform patients of warning signs and symptoms of hepatotoxicity. Discontinue if abnormal liver tests persist or worsen or if clinical signs and symptoms of liver disease develop Hypertension : Patients taking some antihypertensive medications may have impaired response to these therapies when taking NSAIDs.

Pregnancy

Pregnancy Risk Summary Use of NSAIDs, including meloxicam, can cause premature closure of the fetal ductus arteriosus and fetal renal dysfunction leading to oligohydramnios and, in some cases, neonatal renal impairment.

Storage and supply

Meloxicam Tablets USP are available as light yellow coloured, round, biconvex tablets, plain on one side and debossed with '7.5' on other side containing meloxicam 7.5 mg or as light yellow coloured, oval shaped, biconvex tablets, plain on one side and debossed with '15' on other side containing meloxicam 15 mg.

Source: Meloxicam (Meloxicam) — US FDA prescribing information, 2024-08-08, DailyMed. Summarised and shortened; the full label governs. Iranian registration, indications and labelling may differ.