Meloxicam

What it is

Meloxicam is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug that blocks the cyclo-oxygenase enzymes, with some preference for COX-2, and so lowers production of the prostaglandins that carry pain and inflammation. Its effect is long-lasting, which is why it is given as a single daily dose rather than repeatedly through the day. It is prescription-only and is used for pain, inflammation and joint conditions.

A usual adult range, not a national label — the dose and the timing differ by country and by product.

Used for

• Pain
• Inflammation
• Joints

Approved uses differ by country — some of these may be off-label or unapproved where you live.

What to know while taking it

It is taken with food, which reduces stomach irritation without changing how well it works. Combining it with another NSAID such as ibuprofen or diclofenac adds little pain relief but multiplies the risk of stomach bleeding, and with anticoagulants such as warfarin the bleeding risk rises sharply, so these combinations are avoided. Because prostaglandins also help maintain blood flow through the kidneys, creatinine and eGFR are watched, particularly where kidney disease already exists; hemoglobin is checked because bleeding from the stomach lining can be slow and silent.

When to see a doctor

Black or tarry stools, vomit that looks like coffee grounds, or persistent upper abdominal pain point to bleeding and mean see a doctor without delay. The same applies to falling urine output, swelling of the ankles or face, or unexplained breathlessness and fatigue, which can signal kidney trouble or anemia.

Worth knowing

• Raises the risk of stomach bleeding
• Caution with kidney disease

Markers to watch

• Creatinine
• eGFR
• Hemoglobin