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Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), preferentially COX-2

Meloxicam: uses, side effects & precautions

Also known as Mobic, Mobicox.

This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personal medical concerns. In an emergency, call your local emergency number.

What it is used for

  • Pain and inflammation from osteoarthritis
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Ankylosing spondylitis
  • Long-term joint conditions needing once-daily anti-inflammatory treatment

How it works

Meloxicam reduces prostaglandins by inhibiting COX enzymes, with some preference for COX-2 at lower doses. This eases joint pain, stiffness and swelling, and it is long-acting so it is usually taken once a day.

How it is taken

Available as tablets, capsules, orodispersible tablets and oral suspension, and as an injection in clinical settings. Take it exactly as your doctor or the label directs, usually once daily with water and often with food. It is generally a prescription medicine.

No doses here on purpose. The right strength and schedule depend on you — only a doctor or pharmacist should set them. Always follow your prescription and the label.

Common side effects

  • Indigestion or stomach discomfort
  • Nausea or diarrhoea
  • Headache or dizziness
  • Swelling of the legs or feet

Serious effects — get help

  • Stomach or gut bleeding or ulcers (black stools, vomiting blood, severe abdominal pain)
  • Heart attack or stroke warning signs (chest pain, breathlessness, one-sided weakness)
  • Serious allergic or severe skin reactions
  • Signs of liver or kidney problems (yellowing skin, reduced urination, swelling)

If a reaction is severe — for example trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or collapse — go to the nearest emergency room now or call your local emergency number. Do not wait for an online consultation.

Interactions to watch

  • Other NSAIDs and aspirin
  • Blood thinners and antiplatelet drugs
  • Some blood pressure medicines and diuretics
  • Corticosteroids and SSRIs (bleeding risk)
  • Lithium and methotrexate
  • Alcohol

Who should take care

  • Avoided in late pregnancy; use only on clinician advice otherwise
  • Tell your doctor about heart disease, high blood pressure, ulcers, asthma, or kidney or liver problems
  • Use the lowest effective amount for the shortest time
  • Older adults are more sensitive to side effects
  • Seek urgent care for chest pain, stroke symptoms or gut bleeding

Frequently asked questions

Is meloxicam a strong painkiller?
It is an effective anti-inflammatory used mainly for arthritis, taken once daily. It works best for ongoing joint pain rather than quick relief of sudden pain.
How is it different from ibuprofen?
Meloxicam is longer-acting and taken once a day, and at lower doses leans toward COX-2. The choice depends on your condition and risk factors — your doctor decides.
Can I take it every day long term?
It is often prescribed for long-term joint conditions, but needs medical review to monitor stomach, heart and kidney risks. Do not self-manage long-term use.
Does it cause stomach problems?
It can, like all NSAIDs, though possibly less than some at lower doses. Take it with food and report any stomach pain or black stools urgently.
Is Meloxicam safe to take?
For most people it is safe when taken exactly as a doctor or pharmacist advises and as printed on the label. Tell your clinician about your other medicines and health conditions, and seek urgent care for any serious reaction.

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