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Brand

Metacam
Mobic

Pharmacology

Meloxicam belongs to a newer family of NSAIDS called COX-2 inhibitors that block the enzyme cyclooxygenase which is thought to trigger pain and inflammation in the body. Meloxicam has shown, at theraputic dosing, to selectively inhibit COX-2 over COX-1.

Like other NSAIDS, meloxicam acts to inhibit prostaglandin synthesis, thereby exerting an anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anti-exudative and antipyretic effect . It is able to reduce leukocyte infiltration into inflamed tissue.

The drug is distributed into blood, liver, kidneys an synovial fluid, and is believed to cross placental barrier.

It is metabolized in the liver and excreted in both feces and urine. It has also been found in the milk of lactating rats.

Indications

Used for relief of inflammation and pain where the side effects of a corticosteroid is not acceptable. Also used as an analgesic following surgery.

Drug Interactions or Contraindications

Should not be given to pregnant or lactating animals.

Decrease the antihypertensive effect of ACE inhibitors.

Increased risk of GI bleed when used with Aspirin.

Do not use on animals with history of asthma or suffering from gastrointestinal irritation and hemorrhage, impaired hepatic, cardiac, or renal functions.

Adverse Reactions

CNS:  restlessness or lethargy

GI:  loss of appetite, diarrhea, fecal occult blood

GU:  Renal papillary necrosis, frequent urination

Skin:  itching

Other:  Edema

Dosage Recommendations

Available in 10ml dropper bottle.
(0.1 mL = 2 drops= 0.2mg)
Dosage for acute:  0.4mg/kg to 0.2mg/kg once as initial dose, and then maintenance dose 0.2mg/kg to 0.1mg/kg , PO , q24hrs.

or

1.0 mg/kg to 2.0 mg/kg , PO or SQ , daily.  ¹⁹

or

1.0 mg/kg , PO or SQ , daily.  ⁵ (6/02: updated dosage)

Considerations

Give med at same time every day.

May give with or without food.

Report increase swelling. Changes in stool(black), urinary changes, or weight gain to the vet.

Store in dry area in a closed container, at room temperature.

Posted on June 23, 2003, 16:25, Last updated on March 17, 2008, 17:52 | NSAIDS