About meloxicam
Meloxicam (also known as the brand name Mobic) is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It works by blocking specific enzymes and reducing prostaglandins—chemicals that trigger inflammation.
Mobic is primarily prescribed to relieve arthritis symptoms. It can help reduce joint pain, swelling, tenderness, and stiffness associated with arthritis or acute musculoskeletal injury.
Mobic is available only by prescription. It is available in a generic formulation as well as under different brand names, including meloxicam.
Mobic may be prescribed as a tablet, suspension, or capsule. It’s always important to follow the specific instructions on your prescription, as they can vary based on the formulation and dosage prescribed.
If you are prescribed Mobic, it is important to take it daily, or as directed by your doctor, in order for the medication to adequately treat and manage your medical issue.
Meloxicam is used to treat arthritis symptoms and acute musculoskeletal pain.
Meloxicam is FDA approved for the treatment of signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis and juvenile arthritis.
Your doctor may prescribe meloxicam for the following reasons or other reasons not listed here. Ask your online doctor if you have questions about why a medication is prescribed.
Arthritis
Mobic is FDA-approved to treat osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Mobic helps relieve the symptoms of chronic arthritis by blocking specific enzymes and reducing prostaglandins to reduce inflammation.
Meloxicam side effects
The side effects associated with taking meloxicam are typically mild. Individuals taking meloxicam report a variety of side effects, and side effects may vary from patient to patient. There is a U.S. Box warning regarding Mobic with regard to serious cardiovascular thrombotic events, including myocardial infarction (MI) and stroke along with increased risk of serious GI adverse events, including bleeding, ulceration, and perforation of the stomach or intestines. It is important to discuss your full medical history when considering Mobic as a treatment to make an informed decision regarding its safety.
The side effects of meloxicam may include:Upset stomach, nausea, or vomiting
Abdominal pain
Low or high blood pressure
Edema
Chest pain / Angina
Other side effects, which are less common but might be more severe, could include:Allergic reaction
Cardiovascular thrombotic events
Serious skin reactions
Rapid weight gain
Liver problems
Stomach bleeding, ulceration, and perforation
Kidney failure syndrome
Call your doctor if you notice any of adverse effects, or if you develop any other new or concerning symptoms. Meloxicam is not recommended for children under 12 years of age.
Meloxicam can increase your risk of serious cardiovascular events, such as heart attack or stroke, especially if you use it long term. Seek emergency medical help if you experience chest pain, weakness, or shortness of breath.
How to take meloxicam
Your doctor will provide you with instructions on how to take your meloxicam prescription. Be sure to read your prescription label and follow the instructions. Call your doctor if you have any questions.
Meloxicam is available in three different forms: tablet, suspension, and capsule. Your dosage of meloxicam will depend on the reason you're taking the drug.
What to avoid while taking meloxicam
Meloxicam has several drug interactions. Don’t change what you take without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. That includes other medications, supplements, and other drugs.
Drug interactions with meloxicam may include:
Angiotensin II receptor blockers
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
Methotrexate
Lithium
You should tell your doctor about your medical history before taking meloxicam. Meloxicam may cause adverse reactions if you have:
An allergic reaction to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
Liver disease
Recurrent heartburn, ulcers, or other stomach, intestine, or esophagus problems
Heart disease, high blood pressure, or history of heart attack
Kidney problems or acute renal failure
Anemia
Avoid drinking alcohol while taking meloxicam. Alcohol can lead to an increased risk of serious GI bleeding, especially in elderly patients.
If you're undergoing a coronary artery bypass graft (CABG, a type of heart surgery), avoid taking meloxicam right before or anytime after surgery. A prior history of cardiovascular disease increases one’s risk for significant or serious side effects.
Medication alternatives to meloxicam
If your healthcare provider prefers to put you on another treatment altogether, they may suggest another nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) or arthritis medication in another drug class. Here are some common doctor-recommended alternatives based on your health issue:
Pain & inflammation
Meloxicam prescription FAQs
How much does meloxicam cost?
As a generic drug, meloxicam is an affordable option to Mobic. Meloxicam without insurance costs approximately $4 per tablet, or $133 per month for 30, 15 mg tablets without health insurance. (This is in comparison to over $1000 a month for the brand name medication Mobic.)
How can I fill my meloxicam prescription?
To fill your meloxicam prescription, book a virtual appointment with one of our top-rated, primary care board-certified doctors. After reviewing your symptoms and medical history, your doctor can send an electronic meloxicam prescription online to your local pharmacy.
Who should not take meloxicam?
You should avoid taking meloxicam if you have certain medical conditions, including:
Serious cardiovascular thrombotic events
A history of heart attack, stroke, or blood clots
Stomach ulcers or GI bleeding
Kidney disease
Renal or hepatic impairment
Liver disease
Fluid retention
What happens if I miss a dose of meloxicam?
If you miss a dose of meloxicam, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it's almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and follow your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses to make up for the missed dose.
What happens if I take too much meloxicam?
If you've taken too much meloxicam, call your doctor immediately or contact your local poison control center. If you experience severe symptoms, such as serious skin adverse reactions or serious GI bleeding, seek emergency medical help.
What are the benefits of meloxicam?
Meloxicam can improve your overall quality of life by reducing pain and inflammation associated with arthritis.
3 simple steps to request your meloxicam prescription online
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Step 1
Book a Mobic prescription request appointment.
Book a same day appointment from anywhere.
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Step 2
Talk to your medical provider regarding your Mobic prescription.
Visit with a doctor on your smartphone or computer.
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Step 3
Pick up your Mobic prescription.
We can send meloxicam online prescriptions to any local pharmacy.
Meloxicam prescription pricing details
How pricing works
To get a new or refill on your meloxicam prescription online, join our monthly membership and get discounted visits.
Paying with insurance
Membership
$16.99/month
First month free
Visits
Copay
30 days of free membership
Same-day appointments 7 days a week
Unlimited messages with your Care Team
Prescription discount card to save up to 80%
Exclusive discounts on lab tests
Free memberships for your family
Cancel anytime
Visit price with insurance
Often the same as an office visit. Most patients with in-network insurance pay $30 or less!
We accept these insurance plans and many more:
Paying without insurance
Membership
$16.99/month
First month free
Visits
$129
30 days of free membership
Same-day appointments 7 days a week
Unlimited messages with your Care Team
Prescription discount card to save up to 80%
Exclusive discounts on lab tests
Free memberships for your family
Cancel anytime
Visit price without insurance
Initial visits are $129.
If we're unable to treat you, we'll provide a full refund.
Meloxicam prescription resources
Sources:
PlushCare is dedicated to providing you with accurate and trustworthy health information
DailyMed. Mobic - meloxicam tablet. Accessed on September 3, 2022. https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=676e73fb-51d2-449a-8749-1a7bcc257b11
Food and Drug Administration. Mobic prescription label. Accessed on September 3, 2022. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2012/020938s022lbl.pdf
MedlinePlus. Meloxicam. Accessed on September 3, 2022. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a601242.html
PlushCare content is reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, nutritionists, and other healthcare professionals. Learn more about our editorial standards and meet the medical team. The PlushCare site or any linked materials are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice, nor is the information a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment.