Meloxicam

Description

Meloxicam is a veterinary prescription drug that belongs to the class of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). It’s commonly used in dogs to manage pain and inflammation from both sudden injuries and chronic conditions like arthritis. Meloxicam works by blocking certain body chemicals that cause swelling and discomfort. It comes in dog-friendly forms, such as liquids or tablets, and is labeled strictly for animal use.

Directions

Meloxicam should only be used exactly as prescribed by your veterinarian. The dose depends on your dog’s weight, and it usually starts with a higher first-day dose followed by a smaller daily maintenance dose. Always use the measuring device or tablets provided for accurate dosing.

Chewable Tablets (1 mg or 2.5 mg):

• First day: Give 0.2 mg of meloxicam per kilogram (kg) of body weight.
  After the first day: Continue with 0.1 mg/kg once every 24 hours.
• Each 1 mg tablet is the daily dose for a 10 kg dog, and each 2.5 mg tablet is for a 25 kg dog.
• Tablets can be split in half for more accurate dosing.
• They can be given with or without food and are flavored so most dogs take them willingly.

Oral Suspension:

• First day: Give 0.09 mg per pound (0.2 mg/kg) of body weight by mouth.
• After the first day: Continue with 0.045 mg per pound (0.1 mg/kg) once every 24 hours.
• Use the dosing syringe provided. It is marked to match your dog’s weight so you can measure the correct daily amount.

Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest time needed. Do not give more than prescribed or double up on missed doses.

Ingredients

Meloxicam is the active ingredient in this drug.

Contraindications

Avoid using this product if any of the following apply:

• Puppies younger than 6 weeks or weighing less than 4 kg (about 9 lbs)
• Pregnant or nursing females
• Dogs with stomach or intestinal problems, such as irritation, ulcers, or bleeding
• Dogs with liver, heart, or kidney problems, or bleeding disorders
• Dogs with known allergies to any ingredient in the product

Cautions

• Before giving this medication, you may want to consult a veterinarian about the following:
• Any existing health conditions
• Any allergies
• A list of all medications currently being taken
• Do not give meloxicam to pets that are dehydrated, have low blood pressure, or low blood volume, as this can increase the risk of kidney problems.
• This medication is only for dogs—never give it to cats. Cats require a separate meloxicam product specifically formulated for their species.
• People who are allergic to NSAIDs should avoid handling this medicine. If a child swallows it by accident, it may cause stomach upset or pain—seek medical help immediately and bring the package with you.
• Dispose of any uneaten medicated food right away and wash the bowl thoroughly. Return partially used tablets to their blister pack and keep them safely stored.
• Meloxicam must not be given with other anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or steroids, as this increases the risk of serious side effects. If switching from one of these medications, your vet will usually recommend a break period before starting meloxicam.
• If too much meloxicam is given, your vet will provide supportive care to manage the overdose.

Side Effects

Mild side effects with meloxicam are possible, especially when treatment first begins. These may include loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, small amounts of blood in the stool, and lethargy. In many cases, these reactions are temporary and may go away once the medicine is stopped.

More serious side effects are rare but can be severe or even life-threatening. These include bloody diarrhea, vomiting blood, stomach or intestinal ulcers, kidney failure, and liver enzyme changes. If your pet shows these reactions, stop treatment immediately and contact your veterinarian for further guidance.

References:

1. Metacam 1.5 mg/mL Oral Suspension Summary of Product Characteristics. Ingelheim/Rhein, Germany: Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma KG; n.d.
2. Lemicam 1 mg Product Information. Dundalk, Ireland: Wasdell Europe Limited; 2022.

About Dr. Gerardo Sison (Page Author)

An honors graduate of the University of Florida, Dr. Sison started his pharmacy career in a community setting, extending his services to hospitals and clinics over time. He has also worked in medication therapy management, advising patients on proper medication use for their chronic health conditions. Read More....