Mobic (meloxicam) is a prescription nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) specifically formulated to manage pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. As a selective COX-2 inhibitor, it offers targeted relief with a well-established efficacy and safety profile. This medication is designed for long-term management, helping to improve joint function and enhance quality of life for patients suffering from chronic inflammatory conditions. Always use under the supervision of a healthcare professional to ensure optimal therapeutic outcomes and monitor for potential adverse effects.

Features

• Active ingredient: Meloxicam
• Drug class: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), selective COX-2 inhibitor
• Available formulations: Oral tablets (7.5 mg and 15 mg), oral suspension
• Prescription status: Requires a prescription in most countries
• Half-life: Approximately 15–20 hours, allowing for once-daily dosing
• Onset of action: Pain relief may be experienced within 30–60 minutes, with anti-inflammatory effects building over several days

Benefits

• Provides effective and sustained relief from pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
• Once-daily dosing regimen improves patient compliance and convenience compared to multiple-daily-dose NSAIDs.
• Selective inhibition of COX-2 enzymes may reduce the risk of gastrointestinal side effects compared to non-selective NSAIDs.
• Helps improve joint mobility, physical function, and overall quality of life for arthritis patients.
• Supported by extensive clinical research demonstrating efficacy and tolerability in diverse patient populations.
• Available in multiple strengths and formulations to allow for individualized treatment plans.

Common use

Mobic is primarily indicated for the relief of signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis in adults. It may also be used off-label for other inflammatory conditions under physician supervision. The medication works by reducing hormones that cause inflammation and pain in the body, making it particularly effective for chronic arthritic conditions requiring long-term management. Patients typically experience improved joint function and reduced stiffness, particularly with consistent use as prescribed.

Dosage and direction

The recommended initial dose for osteoarthritis is 7.5 mg taken once daily. For rheumatoid arthritis, the recommended dose is 15 mg once daily. The maximum recommended daily dose is 15 mg regardless of indication. Mobic should be taken with a full glass of water and may be taken with food or milk to minimize stomach upset. Tablets should be swallowed whole and not crushed, chewed, or broken. For the oral suspension, use the provided measuring device to ensure accurate dosing. Dosage adjustments may be necessary for elderly patients, those with renal impairment, or those at increased risk for adverse reactions.

Precautions

Patients should inform their healthcare provider of any history of cardiovascular disease, gastrointestinal bleeding or ulcers, kidney disease, liver disease, asthma, or bleeding disorders. Regular monitoring of blood counts, renal function, and liver enzymes may be necessary during long-term therapy. Avoid alcohol consumption while taking Mobic as it may increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding. Use with caution in patients with dehydration, as NSAIDs may impair renal function. Patients should report any signs of bleeding, unusual bruising, weight gain, or swelling to their physician promptly.

Contraindications

Mobic is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to meloxicam or any components of the formulation. It should not be used in patients who have experienced asthma, urticaria, or allergic-type reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs. Contraindicated in the setting of coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery. Should not be used in patients with active gastrointestinal bleeding or peptic ulcer disease. Not recommended for use during the third trimester of pregnancy due to potential risk to the fetus.

Possible side effects

Common side effects may include diarrhea, nausea, abdominal pain, indigestion, flatulence, constipation, dizziness, headache, and peripheral edema. Less frequently, patients may experience vomiting, mouth ulcers, tinnitus, skin rash, or increased blood pressure. Serious side effects requiring immediate medical attention include chest pain, shortness of breath, weakness on one side of the body, slurred speech, black or bloody stools, vomiting blood, jaundice, unexplained weight gain, or severe skin reactions. Long-term use may increase the risk of heart attack or stroke.

Drug interaction

Mobic may interact with anticoagulants (warfarin), antiplatelet drugs, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), and other NSAIDs, increasing the risk of bleeding. Concurrent use with ACE inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers, or diuretics may reduce the antihypertensive effect and worsen renal function. May decrease the effectiveness of aspirin when taken concomitantly. Lithium levels may increase when taken with Mobic, requiring close monitoring. Concomitant use with other nephrotoxic drugs may increase the risk of renal impairment.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered unless it is almost time for the next scheduled dose. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one. If multiple doses are missed, contact your healthcare provider for guidance on resuming therapy. Maintaining a consistent dosing schedule is important for optimal pain management and inflammatory control.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, epigastric pain, gastrointestinal bleeding, drowsiness, lethargy, acute renal failure, respiratory depression, coma, or cardiovascular collapse. In case of suspected overdose, seek immediate medical attention. Treatment is supportive and may include gastric lavage, activated charcoal administration, and symptomatic management. Hemodialysis is not likely to be effective due to high protein binding.

Storage

Store at room temperature (20-25°C or 68-77°F) in a dry place protected from light and moisture. Keep the container tightly closed. Do not freeze the oral suspension. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Properly discard any unused medication after the expiration date or when no longer needed. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so.

Disclaimer

This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before starting or changing any medication regimen. Individual responses to medication may vary, and proper medical supervision is essential. The prescribing physician should be aware of the patient’s complete medical history and current medications to determine appropriate therapy.

Reviews

Clinical studies demonstrate that Mobic provides effective pain relief and improved physical function in approximately 70-80% of osteoarthritis patients. Rheumatoid arthritis patients show significant improvement in tender and swollen joint counts compared to placebo. Many patients report satisfactory pain control with once-daily dosing, though individual responses vary. Some patients note gastrointestinal tolerability superior to traditional NSAIDs, while others may still experience GI discomfort. Long-term users appreciate the consistent relief, though regular monitoring is essential. Physician reviews highlight the importance of patient selection and appropriate dosing to maximize benefits while minimizing risks.