Meloxicam (By Mouth)

Meloxicam (mel-OKS-i-kam)

Treats osteoarthritis. Belongs to a class of drugs called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Brand Name(s):

Mobic
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction (runny or stuffy nose or sneezing, hives, asthma, swelling of the mouth or throat) to meloxicam, aspirin, or other NSAIDs.

How to Use This Medicine:

Tablet

• Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to use and how often. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
• You can take this medicine with meals or on an empty stomach. If this medicine upsets your stomach, it may help to take it with food.

If a dose is missed:

• Use your medicine as soon as possible unless it is almost time for your next dose.
• Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next regular dose.
• Do not use two doses at the same time.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Store at room temperature in a closed container, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
• Keep this and all medicine out of the reach of children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are also using corticosteroids (cortisone-type medicines) by mouth, blood thinners such as Coumadin®, diuretics (water pills), ACE inhibitors such as Altace® or Lotensin®, aspirin, cholestyramine (Questran®), or lithium.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before using this medicine.
• Make sure your doctor knows if you have high blood pressure, a history of ulcers or bleeding in the stomach or intestines, asthma, allergies to other medicines, kidney or liver disease, or heart failure.
• This type of medicine sometimes causes severe bleeding in the stomach and digestive system. NSAIDs have also caused liver problems on rare occasions. Be sure to discuss these possible side effects with your doctor.
• Tell your doctor if you smoke or drink alcohol on a regular basis.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in face or hands, swelling or tingling in the mouth or throat, tightness in chest, trouble breathing
• Bloody or black, tarry stools
• Severe stomach pain or nausea
• Swelling in face, hands, legs, or feet
• Unusual tiredness or weakness
• Vomiting of blood or material that looks like coffee grounds
• Weight gain
• Yellow skin or eyes

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Difficult or painful urination
• Nausea and diarrhea
• Stuffy or runny nose or coughing

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.