Meloxicam is an oxicam derivative and a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) with anti-inflammatory, antipyretic and analgesic activities. Unlike traditional nonselective NSAIDs, meloxicam preferentially inhibits the activity of cyclo-oxygenase II (COX-II), resulting in a decreased conversion of arachidonic acid into prostaglandin precursors. The resulting decrease in prostaglandin synthesis is responsible for the therapeutic effects of meloxicam.

Meloxicam is a long-acting nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) available by prescription only and used in therapy of chronic arthritis. Meloxicam has been linked to rare instances of acute, clinically apparent liver injury.

Meloxicam is a nonsteroidal anti-meloxicam is a long-acting nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) available by prescription only and used in therapy of chronic arthritis. Meloxicam has been linked to rare instances of acute, clinically apparent liver injury, inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to relieve the symptoms of arthritis, primary dysmenorrhea, fever; and as an analgesic, especially where there is an inflammatory component.

Mechanism of Action of Meloxicam

Anti-inflammatory effects of meloxicam are believed to be due to inhibition of prostaglandin synthetase (cylooxygenase), leading to the inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis. As prostaglandins sensitize pain receptors, inhibition of their synthesis may be associated with the analgesic and antipyretic effects of meloxicam. Prostaglandins are substances that contribute to inflammation of joints. Meloxicam inhibits prostaglandin synthetase (cyclooxygenase 1 and 2) and leads to a decrease in the synthesis of prostaglandins, therefore, inflammation is reduced.

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Meloxicam, an oxicam derivative that is structurally related to piroxicam, is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agent (NSAIA) exhibiting analgesic, antipyretic, and anti-inflammatory actions. In vitro and in vivo studies indicate that meloxicam inhibits the cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) isoform of prostaglandin endoperoxide synthase (prostaglandin G/H synthase [PGHS]) to a greater extent than the COX-1 isoform. However, meloxicam’s COX-2 selectivity is dose dependent and is diminished at higher dosages. Therefore meloxicam sometimes has been referred to as a “preferential” rather than “selective” COX-2 inhibitor.

Indications of Meloxicam

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Therapeutic Uses

  • Meloxicam is indicated for the relief of the signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration consistent with individual patient treatment goals.
  • Meloxicam is used for the management of the signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis in adults. In the management of rheumatoid arthritis in adults, NSAIAs may be useful for initial symptomatic treatment; however, NSAIAs do not alter the course of the disease or prevent joint destruction.

Contra Indications of Meloxicam

Dosages of Meloxicam

Strengths: 5 mg; 7.5 mg;10 mg ;15 mg; 7.5 mg/5 mL;

Osteoarthritis

Oral Capsules

  • Initial dose: 5 mg orally once a day
  • Maintenance dose: 10 mg orally once a day in patients requiring additional analgesia
  • Maximum dose: 10 mg orally once a day

Oral Suspension and Tablets

  • Initial dose: 7.5 mg orally once a day
  • Maintenance dose: 15 mg orally once a day in patients requiring additional analgesia
  • Maximum dose: 15 mg orally once a day

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Oral Suspension and Tablets

  • Initial dose: 7.5 mg orally once a day
  • Maintenance dose: 15 mg orally once a day in patients requiring additional analgesia
  • Maximum dose: 15 mg orally once a day

Pediatric Dose for Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis

2 years or older

  • Oral Suspension: 0.125 mg/kg orally once a day
  • Maximum dose: 7.5 mg orally once a day
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Side Effects of Meloxicam

The common

More common

Less common

Rare

Drug Interactions of Meloxicam

Meloxicam may interact with following drugs, supplyments & may change the efficacy of drugs

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Pregnancy & Lactation of Meloxicam

FDA pregnancy catagory C

Meloxicam falls into category C before the 30th week of pregnancy, and category D after the 30th week. For Pregnancy Category C before the 30th week of pregnancy

Pregnancy

This medication should not be used during pregnancy unless the benefits outweigh the risks. If you become pregnant while taking this medication, contact your doctor immediately. It must not be used during the last 3 months of pregnancy as it may cause heart and kidney problems for the developing baby and cause prolonged labor with excessive bleeding during delivery.

Lactation

Many anti-inflammatory medications are known to pass into breast milk. If you are a breast-feeding mother and are taking meloxicam, it may affect your baby. Breast-feeding is not recommended while you are taking meloxicam. The safety and effectiveness of using this medication have not been established for children.

References

 

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