Meloxicam (Viatris) 7.5 mg – Quick Reference
| Topic | What you need to know |
|-------|-----------------------|
| Drug class | Non‑steroidal anti‑inflammatory drug (NSAID) – specifically a COX‑2 selective inhibitor. |
| Common uses | • Osteoarthritis (OA)
• Rheumatoid arthritis (RA)
• Ankylosing spondylitis
• Acute pain that responds to NSAIDs (e.g., post‑operative, dental). |
| Typical adult dose | • 7.5 mg once daily (most patients)
• For moderate‑to‑severe pain or inflammation, the dose may be increased to 15 mg once daily only under a doctor’s guidance.
• Do not exceed 15 mg/day. |
| Administration | • Take with food or a full glass of water to reduce stomach upset.
• Do not crush or chew the tablet; swallow whole. |
| Duration | Usually used as needed for symptom control; long‑term use is common for chronic conditions like OA/RA, but the duration should be reviewed periodically. |
| Key side‑effects | • Gastro‑intestinal: nausea, dyspepsia, heartburn, abdominal pain, ulcers, GI bleeding.
• Cardiovascular: edema, hypertension, heart failure exacerbation, increased risk of MI/STEMI (especially >65 yr or with pre‑existing CVD).
• Renal: decreased kidney function, especially in elderly, dehydrated or those on diuretics.
• Allergic: rash, itching, swelling, anaphylaxis (rare).
• Others: headaches, dizziness, visual changes. |
| Warnings/Precautions | • Peptic ulcer disease or history of GI bleeding → avoid if possible.
• Heart failure or significant cardiac disease → use with caution; monitor BP and fluid status.
• Kidney disease → dose adjustment may be needed.
• Liver disease → monitor liver enzymes.
• Pregnancy: contraindicated in 3rd trimester; can cause premature closure of ductus arteriosus.
• Breastfeeding: minimal transfer; generally considered safe but check with a healthcare provider. |
| Contra‑indications | • Known hypersensitivity to meloxicam, other NSAIDs, or aspirin
• Active peptic ulcer disease
• Severe renal impairment (eGFR <30 ml/min)
• Uncontrolled hypertension
• Severe heart failure (NYHA III‑IV)
• Coagulopathies or patients on anticoagulation therapy that cannot be stopped (unless risk‑benefit is evaluated). |
| Drug interactions | • Other NSAIDs (aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen) → additive GI toxicity.
• Anticoagulants (warfarin, DOACs) → ↑ bleeding risk.
• ACE inhibitors / ARBs → can impair renal function when combined.
• Diuretics (especially thiazides) → can worsen renal function and electrolyte balance.
• SSRIs / SNRIs → increased GI bleeding risk.
• Methotrexate → potential for increased methotrexate levels. |
| Monitoring | • Routine labs: CBC, renal panel (creatinine, BUN), liver enzymes, electrolytes.
• Blood pressure at each visit.
• Assess for GI symptoms; consider prophylaxis with proton‑pump inhibitors (PPIs) if high‑risk. |
| What to do if you miss a dose | • Take the next dose at the regular time.
• If you’re close to the next dose, skip the missed one—do not double‑dose. |
| Storage | • Keep in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
• Do not store in the bathroom or near heat sources. |
Bottom‑Line Take‑Away
Meloxicam 7.5 mg is a once‑daily NSAID that is widely used for chronic joint pain and inflammation. Its benefits in reducing pain and swelling are balanced by notable risks—particularly GI bleeding and cardiovascular events—especially in older adults or those with pre‑existing heart/kidney disease. Always use it exactly as prescribed, keep your doctor informed of any new symptoms, and review your medication list for potential interactions. If you have any doubts or notice side‑effects, contact your prescriber or pharmacist right away.
Disclaimer: This information is educational only and does not replace professional medical advice. For personalized guidance, always consult your healthcare provider.