Meloxicam: Price, Dosage & Where to Buy

Meloxicam is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to relieve the signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis, including joint pain and inflammation. It requires a prescription in the United Kingdom and is available as a generic medicine. Treatment is chosen after considering its benefits and risks, with the label recommending the lowest effective dosage for the shortest suitable duration.

Meloxicam is used to relieve the signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Its role is symptom relief, including relief of joint pain and inflammation associated with these conditions. The label also lists juvenile rheumatoid arthritis in children who weigh at least 60 kg.

This includes forms that affect a few joints and forms that affect many joints. Meloxicam tablets are not intended for children who weigh less than 60 kg.

Meloxicam belongs to a group of medicines called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs. These medicines reduce the activity of enzymes called cyclo-oxygenases, which help the body make substances called prostaglandins. Prostaglandins contribute to pain and inflammation, so reducing their production can ease these symptoms.

They also help protect the stomach lining and support kidney function. This explains why NSAIDs can cause stomach and kidney problems as well as relieving symptoms.

The label lists oral tablets in 7.5 mg and 15 mg strengths, oral capsules in 5 mg and 10 mg strengths, an oral suspension of 7.5 mg/5 mL, and an intravenous injection of 30 mg/mL. The usual starting dose is 7.5 mg once daily for osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. The label lists a possible increase to 15 mg once daily according to response, with a maximum adult oral dose of 15 mg daily regardless of formulation.

The label lists 7.5 mg once daily for juvenile rheumatoid arthritis in children weighing at least 60 kg. The label lists a maximum of 7.5 mg per day for patients on haemodialysis. The label recommends the lowest effective dosage for the shortest duration consistent with treatment goals.

Use in severe kidney impairment is not recommended. Tablets are not interchangeable with other oral meloxicam formulations, even when the total milligram strength is the same. Meal timing does not affect administration.

A missed dose may mean less symptom relief. Follow the missed-dose advice on the dispensing label or ask a pharmacist if it is unclear.

Do not double a dose to make up for a missed dose. If the next scheduled dose is close, the usual advice is to leave the missed dose out.

Meloxicam can affect the baby's kidneys and reduce the fluid around the baby from about 20 weeks of pregnancy. The label limits dose and duration between about 20 and 30 weeks and advises avoiding use at about 30 weeks and later because it can also close an important blood vessel in the baby's heart too early. Evidence about risks in earlier pregnancy is inconclusive.

The label does not specify breastfeeding information. Discuss pregnancy or breastfeeding with a doctor or pharmacist.

The label states that meloxicam tablets should be stored at 20°C to 25°C in a dry place and in a tight container. Keep this medicine out of the reach of children.