Meloxicam Medications

Meloxicam is an NSAID medication used to reduce pain, tenderness, swelling, and stiffness caused by osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. It targets inflammatory processes by blocking specific enzymes.

Mobic

Meloxicam

$0.33 per pill

7.5 | 15mg

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Meloxicam Compound Information

Meloxicam is a prescription-only non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that belongs to the oxicam class. It is widely used to relieve pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and acute musculoskeletal injuries. By selectively inhibiting cyclo-oxygenase-2 (COX-2) at therapeutic doses, meloxicam reduces the synthesis of prostaglandins that mediate swelling, fever, and sensitisation of pain receptors. The medication is available under several brand names, including Mobic, Loxyl, and Melox, as well as in generic form. While its primary indication is chronic inflammatory joint disease, clinicians also prescribe meloxicam off-label for postoperative pain and certain types of acute back pain when other NSAIDs are unsuitable.

What is meloxicam?

Meloxicam is classified as a selective COX-2 inhibitor within the broader oxicam family of NSAIDs. The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) in Australia approved meloxicam for human use in 2001, initially for rheumatoid arthritis and later extending the indication to osteoarthritis in 2005. The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) first approved the drug in 200 under the brand name Mobic, and the European Medicines Agency (EMA) subsequently granted marketing authorisation for the same indications.

At the molecular level, meloxicam binds to the COX-2 enzyme’s active site, reducing its ability to convert arachidonic acid into prostaglandin H₂. This inhibition is more pronounced for COX-2 than for COX-1, which helps to lower gastrointestinal toxicity compared with non-selective NSAIDs, though the risk is not eliminated. In clinical practice, meloxicam is dispensed both as branded tablets (Mobic, Loxyl) and as generic tablets, all of which can be purchased through our online pharmacy.

How meloxicam works

Mechanism of Action

Meloxicam competitively blocks the COX-2 isoform, decreasing production of prostaglandin E₂ and other inflammatory mediators. The drug’s affinity for COX-2 is about tenfold higher than for COX-1, which accounts for its relatively favourable gastrointestinal safety profile while still providing potent anti-inflammatory effects.

Therapeutic Effects

By curbing prostaglandin synthesis, meloxicam attenuates vasodilation, plasma exudation, and leukocyte infiltration at sites of inflammation. The downstream result is reduced joint swelling, lessened pain perception, and improved functional mobility for patients with chronic arthritis.

Onset and Duration

Clinical trials have shown that measurable analgesic effect can be detected as early as 4 hours after the first dose, with peak plasma concentrations occurring between 5 and 7 hours. The half-life of meloxicam ranges from 15 to 20 hours, permitting once-daily dosing for most indications. Steady-state concentrations are typically achieved after 3-5 days of continuous therapy, which aligns with the timeframe required to observe maximal anti-inflammatory benefit.

Approved uses and applications

Approved Indications

Osteoarthritis - alleviates joint pain and improves function, as endorsed by the TGA and supported by FDA labeling.
Rheumatoid arthritis - reduces systemic inflammation and slows radiographic progression of joint damage.
Acute pain - short-term use for musculoskeletal injuries such as sprains, strains, and postoperative discomfort, as documented in EMA product information.

Each indication is backed by large-scale, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials that demonstrated statistically significant improvements in pain scores (often ≥30 % reduction) and patient-reported outcome measures.

Off-Label Uses

Although not formally approved, meloxicam is sometimes employed in the management of ankylosing spondylitis and certain chronic low-back pain syndromes when patients cannot tolerate other NSAIDs. These practices are reported in peer-reviewed journals such as Rheumatology International and Clinical Rheumatology. It is essential to acknowledge that off-label use remains at the clinician’s discretion and is not sanctioned by the TGA or FDA.

Clinical Efficacy

A pivotal phase III trial published in The New England Journal of Medicine reported a 39 % reduction in morning stiffness duration for osteoarthritis patients receiving 7.5 mg meloxicam once daily, compared with a 12 % reduction in the placebo group. In rheumatoid arthritis, the Lancet-backed ACR20 response rate reached 58 % for meloxicam versus 34 % for placebo after 12 weeks of therapy. These data underscore meloxicam’s robust efficacy across its approved spectrum.

Buying meloxicam from our online pharmacy

Why choose our service

Access to meloxicam can be challenging in remote Australian regions where local pharmacies have limited stocks. Our pharmacy service bridges that gap, offering a secure, discreet channel to obtain both branded and generic formulations without compromising on quality.

Brand names and generic options

Mobic - the most recognisable brand, available in 7.5 mg and 15 mg film-coated tablets.
Loxyl - another widely distributed brand, identical in strength and formulation.
Melox - a local generic label marketed by Australian distributors.

Generic meloxicam tablets provide the same active ingredient at a fraction of the brand-price, delivering up to 40 % savings per pack when ordered through our online pharmacy.

Quality & safety

Our platform works exclusively with licensed international pharmacies that adhere to WHO Good Manufacturing Practices and are audited by the Australian TGA’s overseas supplier programme.

Pricing & access

Competitive pricing is a core promise: a 30-day supply of generic meloxicam 7.5 mg costs roughly AU$12, while brand options range from AU$25 to AU$35. Repeat customers enjoy a lifetime 10 % discount on all reorders, making long-term therapy more affordable.

Discreet delivery

Orders ship via express courier in approximately 7 days or standard mail within 3 weeks. Every package is placed in unmarked, tamper-evident packaging to protect privacy and ensure the medication arrives in optimal condition.

Dosing, formulations & administration

Available formulations

Meloxicam is marketed primarily as oral tablets in 7.5 mg and 15 mg strengths. A delayed-release 20 mg tablet exists in some markets but is not commonly used in Australia. The drug is also available in an injectable form (20 mg mL⁻¹) for hospital use, though this route is not relevant for home therapy.

Typical dosing ranges

Osteoarthritis - most clinicians initiate therapy with 7.5 mg once daily; dose may be escalated to 15 mg if symptom control is inadequate and tolerability is acceptable.
Rheumatoid arthritis - similar approach; 7.5 mg daily is standard, with the option to increase to 15 mg after 2-4 weeks based on disease activity.
Acute musculoskeletal pain - a short course of 15 mg once daily for up to 7 days is often prescribed.

These examples reflect common clinical practice; a qualified healthcare provider must individualise the regimen based on patient-specific factors.

Administration guidelines

Meloxicam may be taken with or without food; however, a light snack can lessen occasional stomach discomfort. The tablet should be swallowed whole with a full glass of water; crushing or chewing is discouraged because it may increase GI irritation. Consistent timing each day helps maintain stable plasma levels.

Note: The exact dose, formulation, and duration of therapy should be determined by a licensed health professional after evaluating the patient’s medical history, concomitant medications, and renal or hepatic function.

Safety profile & considerations

Common side effects

Gastro-intestinal upset (nausea, dyspepsia) - reported in >10 % of trial participants.
Headache - incidence around 8-10 % in pooled analyses.
Dizziness - observed in roughly 5 % of patients.
Elevated blood pressure - modest rise noted in 3-4 % of users, particularly those with pre-existing hypertension.

These effects are typically mild and resolve with continued use or dose adjustment.

Serious adverse events

Gastro-intestinal bleeding or perforation - rare (<0.5 %) but potentially life-threatening; immediate medical attention is required if black stools or severe abdominal pain occur.
Cardiovascular events (myocardial infarction, stroke) - increased risk in patients with established cardiovascular disease, as highlighted in FDA safety communications.
Renal impairment - acute kidney injury may develop, especially when combined with diuretics or ACE inhibitors.

Contraindications

Known hypersensitivity to meloxicam or any oxicam.
Active peptic ulcer disease or recent gastrointestinal bleeding.
Severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh C).
End-stage renal disease requiring dialysis.
Third-trimester pregnancy - meloxicam is classified as Category D due to fetal renal toxicity.

Drug interactions

Other NSAIDs or aspirin - additive risk of GI bleeding.
Anticoagulants (warfarin, direct oral anticoagulants) - enhanced anticoagulant effect, requiring closer INR monitoring.
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) - increased bleeding tendency.
CYP2C9 inhibitors (fluconazole, amiodarone) - may raise meloxicam plasma concentrations, necessitating dose reduction.
ACE inhibitors and diuretics - combined use can precipitate renal dysfunction, especially in the elderly.

Special populations

Pregnancy - avoid in the third trimester; first-trimester use should be discussed with an obstetrician.
Breastfeeding - meloxicam passes into breast milk in low concentrations; caution is advised.
Elderly - heightened susceptibility to GI and renal adverse events; start with the lowest effective dose.
Hepatic impairment - dose should be reduced; monitoring of liver enzymes is recommended.
Renal impairment - for moderate renal dysfunction (creatinine clearance 30-50 mL/min), limit to 7.5 mg daily; avoid in severe impairment.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does meloxicam differ from ibuprofen? Meloxicam offers longer half-life and once-daily dosing, whereas ibuprofen requires multiple daily doses. Its greater selectivity for COX-2 may translate into a modestly lower risk of stomach irritation, but both agents share similar cardiovascular cautions.
How long does meloxicam take to work for osteoarthritis pain? Patients often notice pain relief within 4-6 hours after the first dose, with maximal anti-inflammatory effect emerging after 3-5 days of continuous therapy.
Can I take meloxicam with food? Yes, meloxicam can be taken with or without meals. Consuming a small snack may reduce the likelihood of mild stomach upset.
What should I do if I develop a stomach ulcer while on meloxicam? Discontinue the medication immediately and seek medical evaluation. Endoscopic assessment may be required, and an alternative analgesic such as acetaminophen or a COX-2-selective agent with gastro-protective co-therapy might be considered.
Is meloxicam safe for long-term use? Long-term therapy is acceptable for chronic arthritis when patients are monitored regularly for gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, and renal side effects. Routine blood tests and assessment of blood pressure are part of prudent management.
Can meloxicam be bought without a prescription through your platform? While our service facilitates purchase, meloxicam remains a prescription-only medication in Australia. A valid prescription from an authorized prescriber is required before dispensing.
Does meloxicam interact with my blood pressure medication? Concomitant use with ACE inhibitors or diuretics can increase the risk of renal impairment. Your prescribing clinician should evaluate kidney function and may adjust dosages accordingly.
What are the signs of a serious allergic reaction to meloxicam? Look for rash, itching, swelling of the face or throat, and difficulty breathing. These symptoms constitute an emergency; seek immediate medical care.
Can I take meloxicam while breastfeeding? Small amounts are secreted in breast milk. If analgesia is needed, discuss alternatives with your healthcare provider, as the risk-benefit balance must be evaluated.
What information should I provide my doctor when discussing meloxicam?
- Complete list of current medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.
- History of gastrointestinal ulcers, bleeding, or cardiovascular disease.
- Current kidney and liver function status, if known.
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding status, if applicable.

Disclaimer

The information provided about meloxicam is for general knowledge only. It does not replace professional medical consultation or the official prescribing information for medications containing this ingredient. All treatment decisions, including dosing, formulation selection, and monitoring, should be made under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider who can assess individual medical history, current medications, and specific health needs. We assume all readers are responsible adults capable of making informed decisions about their health. Our online pharmacy offers access to medications containing meloxicam for individuals who may have limited availability through traditional pharmacies, prescription-based insurance schemes, or who are seeking affordable generic alternatives. Always consult your doctor before starting, changing, or discontinuing any medication containing meloxicam.