Opokan Max (Meloxicam)

Meloxicam is an NSAID that acts on inflammatory pathways to reduce pain and swelling.

• Osteoarthritis: helps relieve joint pain and improve function.
• Rheumatoid arthritis: reduces inflammation and joint damage progression.
• Ankylosing spondylitis: alleviates spinal pain and stiffness.
• Acute musculoskeletal pain: provides short‑term pain control.
• Post‑operative pain: supports postoperative analgesia as part of a multimodal regimen.

• Meloxicam selectively inhibits cyclo‑oxygenase‑2 (COX‑2) enzymes, decreasing the synthesis of prostaglandins that mediate inflammation, pain and fever. Its relative COX‑2 selectivity provides anti‑inflammatory and analgesic effects while sparing COX‑1–mediated gastric protection to a greater extent than non‑selective NSAIDs.

Meloxicam may cause a range of adverse reactions, most of which are dose‑dependent and reversible.

Common Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal discomfort: nausea, dyspepsia or abdominal pain.
• Headache: mild to moderate intensity.
• Dizziness: transient episodes of light‑headedness.
• Edema: mild peripheral swelling, often in the ankles.
• Elevated liver enzymes: mild, asymptomatic increases in laboratory tests.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal ulceration or bleeding: may present with black stools or vomiting blood.
• Cardiovascular events: increased risk of myocardial infarction or stroke, particularly with long‑term use.
• Severe skin reactions: such as Stevens‑Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis.
• Renal impairment: acute kidney injury manifested by reduced urine output.
• Hepatotoxicity: marked elevation of liver enzymes or jaundice.

When using Opokan Max, consider the following safety measures:

• Assess cardiovascular risk: evaluate history of heart disease before initiating therapy.
• Monitor renal function: check kidney parameters in patients with pre‑existing renal impairment.
• Evaluate gastrointestinal risk: avoid in patients with active ulcers or a history of serious GI bleeding.
• Use the lowest effective dose: limit duration to the shortest period necessary for symptom control.
• Avoid use in late pregnancy: NSAIDs can affect fetal circulation and prolong labor.
• Store at below 25°C: keep in the original packaging, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

Meloxicam can interact with several medicines, altering its efficacy or safety profile.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin): increased risk of serious bleeding.
• Other NSAIDs or COX‑2 inhibitors: heightened gastrointestinal toxicity.
• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs): amplified bleeding risk.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• ACE inhibitors or ARBs: may reduce renal perfusion and impair kidney function.
• Diuretics: potential for reduced effectiveness of blood‑pressure control.
• Lithium: NSAIDs can increase serum lithium levels, risking toxicity.