Meloxicam: Uses, Dosing, Side Effects & Safe Buying Tips

Meloxicam is a prescription NSAID commonly used for arthritis pain and inflammation. It eases joint stiffness and reduces swelling by blocking enzymes that cause inflammation. People often choose meloxicam for osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and sometimes for short-term acute pain when NSAIDs are appropriate.

Typical dosing is 7.5 mg once daily for many adults, with some patients needing 15 mg once daily. Doctors start low and adjust based on response and side effects. Elderly patients and those with kidney or liver problems may need lower doses or close monitoring.

How to take Meloxicam safely

Take meloxicam with food to lower stomach upset. Avoid taking other NSAIDs like ibuprofen or naproxen at the same time unless your doctor says it’s okay. Watch for signs of stomach bleeding: black stools, vomit that looks like coffee grounds, or severe stomach pain. If you have a history of peptic ulcers, heart disease, high blood pressure, or kidney issues, tell your doctor before starting meloxicam.

Common side effects include stomach pain, nausea, dizziness, and headache. Less common but serious risks are gastrointestinal bleeding, kidney damage, and increased risk of heart attack or stroke, especially with long-term use or high doses. If you notice swelling in your legs, sudden chest pain, shortness of breath, or a big change in mood or behavior, seek medical help right away.

Meloxicam interacts with several medicines. Blood thinners like warfarin increase bleeding risk. ACE inhibitors, ARBs, and diuretics can have reduced effect or raise kidney risk when combined with NSAIDs. Combining meloxicam with SSRIs or other blood-thinning drugs can raise bleeding risk too. Always give a complete medication list to your prescriber.

Buying Meloxicam online: what to check

Only buy meloxicam from a licensed pharmacy and never from a site that skips prescriptions. Look for a physical address, pharmacist contact, and positive reviews. Avoid prices that look too good to be true; counterfeit or low-quality meds can be dangerous. Check the return policy and whether the pharmacy ships from a regulated country.

If you’re switching pharmacies, make sure the new dispenser will contact your doctor for a valid prescription. Keep prescriptions and receipts for follow-up. Store meloxicam in a cool, dry place away from children and pets. If a dose is missed, take it when you remember unless the next dose is near—don’t double up.

Your doctor may order blood tests like kidney function and liver enzymes if you use meloxicam long term. Usually doctors try the lowest effective dose and re-evaluate regularly. Avoid meloxicam during the third trimester of pregnancy because NSAIDs can harm the baby’s circulation. If you plan surgery, stop meloxicam days beforehand as directed to lower bleeding risk. Keep a diary to track benefit and side effects. Talk to your pharmacist.

Questions about long-term use, safe stopping, or combining meloxicam with supplements like fish oil or aspirin? Ask your healthcare provider. They can help balance pain control with safety and suggest alternatives if meloxicam isn’t right for you.