Meloxicam Zentiva (Meloxicam)

• Meloxicam is an NSAID that reduces inflammation and pain in several musculoskeletal conditions.
• Osteoarthritis: alleviates joint pain and improves mobility.
• Rheumatoid arthritis: decreases inflammation and slows disease progression.
• Ankylosing spondylitis: reduces spinal stiffness and pain.
• Acute pain: provides rapid relief of moderate to severe pain episodes.

• Meloxicam selectively inhibits cyclooxygenase‑2 (COX‑2) and, to a lesser extent, COX‑1 enzymes, leading to reduced conversion of arachidonic acid to prostaglandins. Lower prostaglandin levels diminish inflammation, pain signaling, and fever responses at the site of tissue injury.

Adverse reactions may vary in frequency and severity.

Common Side Effects

• Dyspepsia or stomach upset
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Peripheral edema
• Skin rash or itching
• Elevated liver enzymes

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal bleeding or ulcer perforation
• Cardiovascular thrombotic events (e.g., myocardial infarction, stroke)
• Acute renal failure or worsening of chronic kidney disease
• Severe skin reactions such as Stevens‑Johnson syndrome
• Hepatotoxicity with jaundice
• Anaphylactic or severe hypersensitivity reactions

Before prescribing meloxicam, clinicians should evaluate patient‑specific risk factors.

• Gastrointestinal risk: avoid in patients with active ulcers or a history of GI bleeding.
• Cardiovascular caution: use cautiously in patients with heart disease or stroke history.
• Renal monitoring: adjust or discontinue if renal function declines.
• Hypersensitivity: discontinue immediately if rash, swelling, or anaphylaxis occurs.
• Pregnancy and lactation: avoid unless benefits outweigh potential risks.
• Store below 25°C: keep in the original container, protect from moisture.

Meloxicam may interact with several drug classes, requiring careful management.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin): increased bleeding risk.
• Other NSAIDs or aspirin: heightened gastrointestinal toxicity.
• Lithium: elevated lithium serum levels.
• Methotrexate: reduced clearance leading to toxicity.
• Cyclosporine: increased nephrotoxicity.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• ACE inhibitors or ARBs: possible reduction in renal function.
• Diuretics: risk of electrolyte imbalance and renal impairment.
• SSRIs or SNRIs: additive bleeding risk.
• Beta‑blockers: may blunt antihypertensive effect.
• Corticosteroids: synergistic GI ulcer risk.