Meloxicam (Mobic)

What Is Meloxicam?

Meloxicam is a prescription nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) commonly used for arthritis and chronic pain conditions. It works by reducing inflammation and is taken once daily, making it convenient for long-term use. Brand names include Mobic and Vivlodex.¹

How It Works²

Inhibits COX-2 enzyme (preferentially)
Reduces prostaglandin production
Decreases inflammation
Relieves pain and swelling
Long half-life allows once-daily dosing

Uses

Osteoarthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis
Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis
Chronic pain conditions
Ankylosing spondylitis

Dosing

Typical dose: 7.5-15 mg once daily
Start with lowest effective dose
Can take with or without food
Maximum: 15 mg/day
Lower doses for elderly

Common Side Effects³

Stomach upset, nausea
Diarrhea or constipation
Dizziness
Headache
Fluid retention
Elevated blood pressure

Serious Risks

GI bleeding and ulcers
Cardiovascular events (heart attack, stroke)
Kidney problems
Liver damage (rare)
Allergic reactions

Who Should Not Take It

Allergy to NSAIDs or aspirin
History of GI bleeding
Severe kidney or liver disease
Before or after heart surgery
Third trimester of pregnancy

Drug Interactions

Blood thinners (increased bleeding)
ACE inhibitors (reduced effectiveness)
Diuretics (kidney risk)
Lithium (increased levels)
Methotrexate (increased toxicity)
Other NSAIDs (avoid combining)

Safety Tips

Use lowest dose for shortest time
Take with food if stomach upset
Stay hydrated
Report black stools or stomach pain
Regular monitoring if long-term use

References

Fleischmann R, Iqbal I, Slobodin G. Meloxicam. Expert Opin Pharmacother. 2002;3(10):1501-1512.
Distel M, Mueller C, Bluhmki E, Fries J. Safety of meloxicam: a global analysis of clinical trials. Br J Rheumatol. 1996;35(Suppl 1):68-77.
Derry S, Moore RA. Single dose oral meloxicam for acute postoperative pain in adults. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2013;(1):CD010501.