Movalis (Meloxicam)

Movalis (meloxicam) is an NSAID that reduces inflammation and pain in musculoskeletal conditions.

• Osteoarthritis: reduces joint pain and improves functional ability.
• Rheumatoid arthritis: alleviates inflammatory joint pain and swelling.
• Acute musculoskeletal pain: provides rapid relief of pain and inflammation.
• Post‑operative pain: helps control pain after surgical procedures.

• Meloxicam preferentially inhibits the cyclooxygenase‑2 (COX‑2) enzyme, leading to decreased synthesis of prostaglandins that mediate inflammation, pain, and fever. By sparing COX‑1 activity to a greater extent, it aims to maintain protective gastric prostaglandins while delivering anti‑inflammatory and analgesic effects.

Common Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal discomfort: nausea, dyspepsia, or abdominal pain.
• Headache: mild to moderate intensity.
• Dizziness or vertigo.
• Injection site reactions: pain, erythema, or swelling.
• Mild skin rash.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal ulceration or bleeding.
• Cardiovascular thrombotic events such as myocardial infarction or stroke.
• Severe skin reactions including Stevens‑Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis.
• Anaphylaxis or severe allergic reactions.
• Hepatic injury: elevated liver enzymes or hepatitis.

Precautions should be taken when prescribing Movalis, especially in patients with existing health concerns.

• Assess renal function: monitor kidney function in patients with renal impairment.
• Evaluate cardiovascular risk: use cautiously in patients with a history of heart disease.
• Avoid in known hypersensitivity: do not use if allergic to meloxicam or other NSAIDs.
• Use with caution in pregnancy: limited data, avoid in the third trimester.
• Monitor liver enzymes: periodic testing recommended during prolonged therapy.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep in the original pack, protect from moisture and light.

Meloxicam may interact with several drug classes; awareness of these interactions helps minimize risk.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin): increased risk of bleeding.
• Other NSAIDs or COX‑2 inhibitors: heightened gastrointestinal and renal toxicity.
• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs): elevated bleeding risk.
• ACE inhibitors or diuretics: potential reduction in renal function.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Lithium: meloxicam may increase lithium serum levels.
• Methotrexate: risk of increased toxicity.
• Corticosteroids: combined use raises risk of gastrointestinal ulceration.