Meloxicam is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug used to relieve the symptoms of arthritis, primary dysmenorrhoea, pyrexia; and as an analgesic, especially where there is an inflammatory component. It is closely related to piroxicam.

In Europe it is marketed under the names of Movalis, Melox, and Recoxa.

Mechanism of action

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Meloxicam is an NSAID, and as such is a cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibitor. It is generally marketed under the name MOBIC. Meloxicam has been shown, especially at its low therapeutic dose, to selectively inhibit COX-2 over COX-1.

Main article: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug

Adverse effects

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Meloxicam use can result in gastrointestinal toxicity, tinnitus, headache, and rash. The risk of adverse side effects is lower than with piroxicam, diclofenac, or naproxen. Although it does inhibit thromboxane A, it does not appear to do so at levels that would interfere with platelet function.

Approval status

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Meloxicam is quite popular in Europe for treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. It has recently (as of 2004) been approved for use in treating osteoarthritis in the United States.

NSAID | Over-the-counter substances

Meloxicam | Meloxicam | มีลอกซิแคม