Meloxicam is a prescription medication that belongs to the class of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. It used for the relief of signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. Meloxicam is available as a tablet and liquid suspension and is given by mouth. Meloxicam is generally well-tolerated but may cause side effects.
Headache
A common side effect that may occur with meloxicam is headache. About eight percent of individuals may experience headaches. Headaches begin to diminish as the person adjusts to the medication. However, this undesired side effect may be bothersome so the patient may ask a pharmacist or physician if a headache pain reliever is safe to use. The patient should inform a physician if the headache does not go away.
Nausea and Indigestion
Nausea is a common side effect among users of meloxicam. Nausea may occur in up to seven percent of individuals. Indigestion may occur with about nine percent of patients. Another side effect that patients may experience with this drug is abdominal pain, which may occur in up to five percent of patients. Patients should take the medication with food or milk to minimize these side effects. If any of these side effects becomes severe the patient should inform a physician; this medication has the potential to cause stomach ulcers. “Pharmacotherapy: A Pathophysiologic Approach” explains that the medication should be given for the shortest amount of time and the lowest dose to avoid the development of stomach ulcers.
Diarrhea
Diarrhea may occur with the use of meloxicam, as well. The “Drug Information Handbook” reports that up to eight percent of individuals may experience this adverse event. Eating light meals may help to avoid developing diarrhea. If a patient develops diarrhea, he should drink plenty of fluids to keep hydrated. Diarrhea that becomes severe or lasts for more than three days requires medical attention right away. A fever or severe abdominal pain that accompanies diarrhea may be a sign of a serious condition and requires immediate medical care.
Flu-like Symptoms and Upper Respiratory Infection
About six percent of patients may develop flu-like symptoms, which include fever, chills, muscle aches, fatigue and dry cough. If a patient develops any of these symptoms, she should contact a physician. An upper respiratory infection may have similar symptoms as the flu so it is important to inform a physician. An upper respiratory infection may occur in about eight percent of patients, and presents with cough, sore throat, fever, headache, fatigue and runny nose. A physician can determine if these symptoms are an infection and prescribe medications if needed.
References
- "Pharmacotherapy: A Pathophysiologic Approach"; Joseph T. Dipiro, Robert L. Talbert, et al.; 2008
- "Drug Information Handbook"; Charles F. Lacy, Lora L. Armstrong, et al.; 2009
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