Meloxicam, an NSAID commonly prescribed for osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, requires dentists to be vigilant about potential risks when prescribing other medications, particularly for pain. Read on to discover more about Meloxicam:
Generic Name: Meloxicam
Brand Name(s): Anjeso, Mobic, Vivlodex
Pronunciation: mel OKS i kam
About this drug:
Meloxicam is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to reduce swelling and treat pain. It may be used for osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or juvenile rheumatoid arthritis.
Dentistry-related tidbits:
Epinephrine in local anesthetics may increase the risk of hypertension when combined with Meloxicam.
Do not prescribe other NSAIDs with Meloxicam, as this can result in diminished renal function, hypertension, hyperkalemia, thromboembolism, and more.
Meloxicam also has drug interactions with other commonly prescribed antibiotics, steroids, antifungals, and more. Make sure to check for potential interactions before prescribing using a tool like Rx Check.
Do not prescribe Meloxicam if a patient is pregnant, planning to become pregnant, undergoing infertility treatment, or is breastfeeding.
Fun facts:
Meloxicam has several FDA Warnings. For instance, Meloxicam can heighten the risk of severe blood clots, heart attacks, and strokes, potentially leading to death. Additionally, it may increase the risk of serious gastrointestinal issues, including bleeding, ulceration, and stomach or intestinal perforation, which can also be fatal.
Meloxicam works by inhibiting the enzyme cyclooxygenase (COX). This inhibition leads to a decrease in the production of molecules that boost inflammation and help the blood clot. At low doses (7.5 mg), Meloxicam inhibits COX-2 but not COX-1, resulting in fewer gastrointestinal and renal issues compared to COX-1 inhibitors like Ibuprofen, Naproxen, and Diclofenac. However, at high doses (15 mg), Meloxicam begins to inhibit COX-1 and the risk of serious GI events increases by 6X.
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