Meloxicam is used to treat arthritis. It reduces pain, swelling, and stiffness of the joints. Meloxicam is known as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID).

If you are treating a chronic condition such as arthritis, ask your doctor about non-drug treatments and/or using other medications to treat your pain.

Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually once daily. Drink a full glass of water (8 ounces/240 milliliters) with it unless your doctor tells you otherwise. Do not lie down for at least 10 minutes after taking this drug.

If you are taking the liquid form of this medication, shake the bottle gently before each dose. Carefully measure the dose using a special measuring device/spoon. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose.

If you are taking the disintegrating tablet, do not remove the tablet from the packaging until you are ready to take it. With dry hands, peel back the foil to carefully remove the tablet. Do not push the tablet through the foil because doing so can damage it. Place the tablet on your tongue right away and allow it to dissolve. After the tablet has melted, it can be swallowed with or without liquid.

If stomach upset occurs while taking this medication, take it with food, milk, or an antacid. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. The lowest effective dosage should always be used, and only for the prescribed length of time. Do not take more of this medication than prescribed because higher doses increase the chance of stomach ulcers/bleeding.

Meloxicam may come in different forms (such as a tablet, capsule, liquid, disintegrating tablet). Do not switch between different forms without consulting your doctor.

It may take up to two weeks before you get the full benefit of this drug. Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. Remember to use it at the same time each day.

Tell your doctor if your condition worsens.

Before taking meloxicam, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to aspirin or other NSAIDs (such as ibuprofen, naproxen, celecoxib); or if you have any other allergies. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: asthma (including a history of worsening breathing after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs), liver disease, stomach/intestine/esophagus problems (such as bleeding, ulcers, recurring heartburn), heart disease (such as history of heart attack), high blood pressure, stroke, blood disorders (such as anemia, bleeding/clotting problems), growths in the nose (nasal polyps).

Stomach upset, nausea, dizziness, or diarrhea may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. This medication may raise your blood pressure. Check your blood pressure regularly and tell your doctor if the results are high.

What is the most important information I should know about Meloxicam?

Meloxicam can increase your risk of fatal heart attack or stroke. Do not use this medicine just before or after heart bypass surgery (coronary artery bypass graft, or CABG). Meloxicam may also cause stomach or intestinal bleeding, which can be fatal.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at one time.

What should I avoid while taking Mobic?

Avoid alcohol. Heavy drinking can increase your risk of stomach bleeding.

Avoid taking aspirin while you are taking meloxicam.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using other medicines for pain, fever, swelling, or cold/flu symptoms. They may contain ingredients similar to meloxicam (such as aspirin, ibuprofen, ketoprofen, or naproxen).