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 potentially improved gastrointestinal tolerability profile compared to some traditional NSAIDs. Its once-daily dosing regimen supports consistent therapeutic levels, enhancing patient compliance and long-term management of chronic inflammatory conditions. Clinicians value its efficacy in improving joint function and reducing stiffness, making it a cornerstone in arthritis treatment protocols.

Features

• Active ingredient: Meloxicam
• Drug class: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), selective COX-2 inhibitor
• Available dosages: 7.5 mg and 15 mg tablets
• Administration: Oral, once daily
• Onset of action: Typically within 30–60 minutes; full anti-inflammatory effect may take several days
• Half-life: Approximately 15–20 hours, supporting steady-state concentration
• Bioavailability: ~89% following oral administration
• Excretion: Primarily hepatic metabolism with renal and fecal elimination

Benefits

• Provides potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, significantly reducing joint pain and swelling.
• Once-daily dosing enhances adherence and simplifies treatment regimens for chronic conditions.
• Demonstrates selective COX-2 inhibition, which may lower the risk of gastrointestinal adverse events compared to non-selective NSAIDs.
• Improves physical function and mobility in patients with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
• Supports long-term management of inflammatory arthritis with a well-established efficacy and safety profile.
• Available in multiple strengths, allowing for individualized dosing based on patient needs and response.

Common use

Mobic is primarily indicated for the relief of signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis in adults. It is used to manage chronic pain, reduce inflammation, decrease morning stiffness, and improve overall joint function. It may also be prescribed off-label for other painful inflammatory conditions, such as ankylosing spondylitis or acute gout, under careful medical supervision. It is not intended for use in pediatric patients or as an acute pain reliever for short-term, minor aches.

Dosage and direction

For osteoarthritis: The recommended initial and maintenance dose is 7.5 mg taken orally once daily. Depending on therapeutic response, the dose may be increased to a maximum of 15 mg once daily.
For rheumatoid arthritis: The recommended dose is 15 mg once daily. Based on individual patient response, some may be maintained on 7.5 mg daily.
Mobic should be taken with a full glass of water and may be administered with food or milk to minimize potential gastrointestinal upset. Do not crush, chew, or split the tablets. Dosage adjustments are necessary in patients with severe renal impairment or those undergoing dialysis; use is not recommended in patients with severe hepatic impairment.

Precautions

• Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration consistent with treatment goals.
• Monitor renal function periodically, especially in elderly patients, those with volume depletion, heart failure, hepatic dysfunction, or taking diuretics or ACE inhibitors.
• Assess hemoglobin or hematocrit periodically if treated long-term.
• Avoid use in patients with a history of asthma, urticaria, or allergic reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs.
• Counsel patients to report symptoms of gastrointestinal ulceration or bleeding, such as epigastric pain, dyspepsia, melena, or hematemesis.
• Use with caution in patients with hypertension; monitor blood pressure during therapy.

Contraindications

• Known hypersensitivity to meloxicam or any components of the formulation.
• History of asthma, urticaria, or other allergic-type reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs.
• Use in the setting of coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery.
• Moderate to severe renal impairment or advanced kidney disease.
• Third trimester of pregnancy.

Possible side effect

Common side effects (≥1%): dyspepsia, nausea, abdominal pain, diarrhea, flatulence, headache, dizziness.
Less common: edema, hypertension, pruritus, rash, increased liver enzymes, tinnitus.
Serious side effects (seek immediate medical attention): gastrointestinal bleeding or perforation, hepatotoxicity, acute renal failure, heart failure, myocardial infarction, stroke, anaphylactic reactions, severe skin reactions.

Drug interaction

• Concomitant use with other NSAIDs or aspirin may increase risk of gastrointestinal bleeding.
• May reduce the antihypertensive effect of ACE inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor blockers, and diuretics.
• Increases risk of bleeding with warfarin and other anticoagulants; monitor INR closely.
• May increase lithium levels; monitor lithium concentration.
• Methotrexate: may enhance methotrexate toxicity; monitor for bone marrow suppression and renal function.
• Cyclosporine: increased risk of nephrotoxicity.

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. Resume the regular dosing schedule. Consistent daily administration is important to maintain stable drug levels.

Overdose

Symptoms may include lethargy, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, epigastric pain, gastrointestinal bleeding, acute renal failure, respiratory depression, coma. There is no specific antidote. Management is supportive and includes gastric lavage or activated charcoal (if presented early), and symptomatic treatment. Hemodialysis is not 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 in the original container, tightly closed. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use after the expiration date printed on the packaging.

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or before starting any new treatment. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here.

Reviews

“Prescribed Mobic for osteoarthritis in my knees. Noticeable reduction in swelling and pain within a week. Once-daily dosing is convenient.” – James L., 62
“Effective for my rheumatoid arthritis flare-ups. Had some mild stomach discomfort initially, but taking it with food helped.” – Maria P., 54
“As a rheumatologist, I find Mobic to be a reliable option for long-term arthritis management, especially in patients who need GI-sparing NSAID therapy.” – Dr. Evan R.
“Been on 15 mg for over a year. Manages my pain well, but required periodic kidney function tests. Overall, a good balance of efficacy and tolerability.” – Susan T., 58