Mobic (meloxicam) is a prescription nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) belonging to the enolcarboxamide class, specifically designed to provide long-lasting management of pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Its selective inhibition of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) offers a targeted mechanism of action, balancing efficacy with a potentially improved gastrointestinal tolerability profile compared to some traditional non-selective NSAIDs. As a once-daily medication, it supports consistent therapeutic plasma levels, enhancing patient compliance and sustained symptomatic control. It is indicated for the relief of signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis in adults, providing a cornerstone in the pharmacological management of chronic inflammatory joint diseases.

Features

• Active Ingredient: Meloxicam
• Drug Class: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), selective COX-2 inhibitor
• Available Dosage Forms: Oral tablets (7.5 mg and 15 mg)
• Administration: Once daily, with or without food
• Pharmacokinetics: Peak plasma concentration reached within 4-5 hours; elimination half-life of approximately 15-20 hours
• Bioavailability: Approximately 89% following oral administration
• Protein Binding: Greater than 99%, primarily to albumin
• Metabolism: Hepatic, primarily via CYP2C9 and CYP3A4 isoenzymes
• Excretion: Predominantly renal, with equal parts as metabolite and unchanged drug; fecal excretion accounts for less than 1.5% of the dose

Benefits

• Provides potent and sustained anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects for improved joint function and mobility.
• Selective COX-2 inhibition may reduce the incidence of gastrointestinal ulceration and complications compared to non-selective NSAIDs.
• Once-daily dosing regimen supports consistent therapeutic levels and enhances long-term treatment adherence.
• Effectively reduces morning stiffness, swelling, and pain in arthritic conditions, improving quality of life.
• Demonstrated efficacy in managing chronic pain associated with degenerative joint diseases.
• Suitable for long-term management of inflammation in appropriate patient populations under medical supervision.

Common use

Mobic is primarily prescribed for the symptomatic treatment of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis in adults. In osteoarthritis, it is used to reduce pain, improve joint function, and decrease stiffness, particularly in weight-bearing joints such as the knees and hips. For rheumatoid arthritis, it helps manage systemic inflammation, reduce joint swelling and tenderness, and improve overall physical function. It may also be used off-label for other painful inflammatory conditions, such as ankylosing spondylitis or acute musculoskeletal pain, though such use requires careful individual risk-benefit assessment by a healthcare provider. It is not indicated for the treatment of peri-operative pain or in pediatric populations.

Dosage and direction

The recommended initial and maintenance dosage for osteoarthritis is 7.5 mg taken orally once daily. Depending on therapeutic response, the dosage may be increased to a maximum of 15 mg once daily. For rheumatoid arthritis, the recommended dosage is 15 mg once daily; based on individual patient response, some may be maintained on 7.5 mg daily. Mobic can be taken with or without food; however, administration with food may minimize potential gastrointestinal upset. Tablets should be swallowed whole with a full glass of water. The lowest effective dose should be used for the shortest duration consistent with individual treatment goals. Dosage adjustment is recommended in patients with severe renal impairment or those undergoing dialysis; use is not recommended in patients with severe hepatic impairment.

Precautions

Patients should be informed that Mobic, like other NSAIDs, may cause an increased risk of serious cardiovascular thrombotic events, including myocardial infarction and stroke, which can be fatal. This risk may increase with duration of use and in patients with cardiovascular disease or risk factors. NSAIDs also confer an increased risk of serious gastrointestinal adverse events, including bleeding, ulceration, and perforation of the stomach or intestines, which can be fatal. These events can occur at any time during use and without warning symptoms. Caution is advised in patients with a history of ulcer disease or gastrointestinal bleeding. Use with caution in patients with fluid retention, hypertension, or heart failure. Periodic monitoring of renal function is recommended during long-term therapy, especially in the elderly, those with impaired renal function, heart failure, or liver dysfunction, and those taking diuretics or ACE inhibitors. Patients should be advised to avoid alcohol consumption during treatment due to increased risk of GI bleeding.

Contraindications

Mobic is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to meloxicam or any components of the formulation. It should not be used in patients who have experienced asthma, urticaria, or other allergic-type reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs, as severe, sometimes fatal, anaphylactic reactions may occur. It is contraindicated in the setting of coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery. Use is contraindicated in patients with active peptic ulcer disease or recent gastrointestinal bleeding or perforation. It is also contraindicated in patients with severe hepatic impairment or active hepatic disease, and in those with estimated creatinine clearance less than 15 mL/min or advanced renal disease. It should not be used during the third trimester of pregnancy due to risk of premature closure of the ductus arteriosus.

Possible side effect

Common adverse reactions (occurring in >2% of patients) include dyspepsia, nausea, abdominal pain, diarrhea, flatulence, constipation, dizziness, headache, and peripheral edema. Less frequently, patients may experience vomiting, esophagitis, stomatitis, tinnitus, pruritus, rash, and hypertension. Serious but rare side effects include gastrointestinal bleeding or perforation, hepatotoxicity (elevated liver enzymes, jaundice, fulminant hepatitis), renal impairment or failure, heart failure, hypertension exacerbation, serious skin reactions (such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis), anaphylactic reactions, and hematologic effects such as anemia, leukopenia, or thrombocytopenia. Patients should seek immediate medical attention for signs of allergic reaction, chest pain, shortness of breath, weakness on one side of the body, slurred speech, black or bloody stools, vomiting blood, unusual weight gain, or skin rash.

Drug interaction

Concomitant use with other NSAIDs or aspirin may increase the risk of gastrointestinal ulcers and bleeding. Mobic may diminish the antihypertensive effect of ACE inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor blockers, and beta-blockers. It may reduce the natriuretic effect of furosemide and thiazide diuretics, potentially worsening heart failure or hypertension. Concurrent use with anticoagulants such as warfarin may increase the risk of bleeding; close monitoring of INR is required. Co-administration with lithium may decrease lithium clearance and increase lithium plasma levels, necessitating monitoring. Use with methotrexate may increase methotrexate plasma levels and toxicity risk. CYP2C9 inhibitors (e.g., fluconazole) may increase meloxicam exposure, while inducers (e.g., rifampin) may decrease it. Concomitant use with corticosteroids or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors may increase gastrointestinal bleeding risk.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered, unless it is almost time for the next scheduled dose. In that case, the missed dose should be skipped, and the regular dosing schedule resumed. Patients should not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. Maintaining a consistent daily schedule is important for stable therapeutic levels; use of a pill organizer or daily reminder may help improve adherence.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose may include lethargy, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, epigastric pain, gastrointestinal bleeding, hypertension, acute renal failure, respiratory depression, coma, or convulsions. There is no specific antidote for meloxicam overdose. Management is supportive and symptomatic, focusing on maintaining vital functions. Gastric lavage or administration of activated charcoal may be considered if presented soon after ingestion. Forced diuresis, alkalinization of urine, hemodialysis, or hemoperfusion are unlikely to be effective due to high protein binding. Patients should seek immediate emergency medical attention or contact a poison control center.

Storage

Store Mobic tablets at room temperature, between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), with excursions permitted between 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Keep in the original container, tightly closed, and protect from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom or near sinks. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use beyond the expiration date printed on the packaging. Dispose of unused medication properly via a drug take-back program or according to local regulations; do not flush down the toilet or pour into a drain.

Disclaimer

This information is provided 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. Individual responses to medication may vary, and only a healthcare professional can determine the appropriate therapy based on specific health circumstances. Never initiate, adjust, or discontinue medication without consulting your doctor.

Reviews

“After six months on Mobic 15mg for rheumatoid arthritis, my morning stiffness has reduced significantly. I can now perform daily tasks with much less discomfort. I did experience some mild heartburn initially, but taking it with food resolved that.” — Eleanor R., 68

“My orthopedist prescribed Mobic for my knee osteoarthritis. The once-daily dose is convenient, and I’ve noticed a real improvement in my ability to walk longer distances. I haven’t had any side effects, and my recent bloodwork showed no issues.” — Marcus T., 54

“Effective for pain, but I had to stop due to elevated blood pressure. My doctor switched me to an alternative. It worked well for my joint inflammation, but monitoring is definitely important.” — Susan K., 61

“As a long-term solution for my ankylosing spondylitis (off-label use), Mobic has been a game-changer. The anti-inflammatory effect is consistent throughout the day. I get regular kidney function tests as a precaution.” — David L., 45

“I’ve been on Mobic 7.5mg for osteoarthritis in my hands for over a year. It took about two weeks to feel the full effect, but the reduction in swelling and pain has been substantial. No gastrointestinal issues so far.” — Margaret W., 71