Meloxicam belongs to a class of medications called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like Diclofenac. This class of drugs can be used to reduce pain, inflammation and fever. It is commonly used for rheumatoid arthritis, gout, juvenile idiopathic arthritis and osteoarthritis.
Meloxicam is taken by mouth as a tablet or capsule. It is advised to take meloxicam with food to reduce gastrointestinal discomfort.
The dosages for different indications are listed below:
For rheumatoid arthritis
Adult
15 mg once daily, then reduced to 7.5 mg once daily if needed.
Elderly
7.5 mg once daily.
For juvenile idiopathic arthritis
Child 12-17 years
60 kg: 7.5 mg once daily.
For osteoarthritis
Adult
7.5 mg once daily, then increase to 15 mg once daily if necessary.
Like all NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), the main side effects of Meloxicam are indigestion, nausea, bleeding gastric ulcer, and allergic reaction. With long-term use Meloxicam can cause kidney injury, bleeding and increase the risk of a cardiovascular event.
Common dosing schedule:
Meloxicam can be taken with or without food. Take Meloxicam with or after a meal if you experience gastrointestinal distress.
This schedule is for reference only, adjustments may be made according to individual needs.
Some common medications Meloxicam may interact with:
Please notify your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking the above medication, dosage adjustments might be needed.
In Hong Kong, Meloxicam is a prescription only medicine, and requires a prescription from a doctor to be purchased in a pharmacy. It can also be obtained from doctors. To find a pharmacy near you, refer to the list of pharmacies (“Authorized Sellers of Poisons”) from the Hong Kong Department of Health.
For more information about drug names and ingredients, you can visit Hong Kong’s Drug Office at https://www.drugoffice.gov.hk
Need more information?
For detailed information about the use of Meloxicam in children, pregnancy and breastfeeding, and for questions about drug interactions, please check with your pharmacist or doctor.
Disclaimer: our goal is to provide you with the most relevant drug information and common dosage for Hong Kong. This information does not constitute medical advice. For specific treatment recommendations and advice, always discuss with your doctor or pharmacist, and follow the instructions included with your specific medicine.
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