Meloxicam Side Effects

by on March 8, 2012

Common side effects of Meloxicam include fever, hoarseness, headaches, rash, bleeding, itching, pasty skin tone, blisters, gastrointestinal toxicity, watery eyes and sore throat.

Common Meloxicam Side Effects

Meloxicam side effects can occur in some patients. Sometimes the symptoms are mild, other times they are very serious. Here are some of the most common, albeit mild, side effects:

  • Sore throat
  • Cough
  • Runny nose
  • Constipation
  • Diarrhea
  • Fever
  • Hoarseness
  • Headaches
  • Rash
  • Bleeding

These side effects are often temporary and mild, if they occur at all. Never deviate from your doctor’s orders. Failing to take Meloxicam at the same time every day can also bring about adverse side effects.

Serious Meloxicam Side Effects

Meloxicam Side EffectsIn some instances, patients suffer a serious allergic reaction to Meloxicam. Although not common, extreme cases can occur. If you experience any of the following reactions after taking Meloxicam, contact your healthcare provider immediately and seek medical help:

  • Itching
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Swelling of the tongue, face, eyes, and other facial features
  • Blisters
  • Fever
  • Pasty skin tone
  • Flu-like symptoms
  • Bloody urine or stool
  • Back pain
  • Hives
  • Gastrointestinal toxicity

Effects that do not necessarily signal an allergic reaction but still may require medical attention are as follows:

  • Gas
  • Continual cough
  • Runny nose
  • Watery eyes
  • Stomachache
  • Sore Throat
  • Irregular gastrointestinal function
  • reversible delay in ovulation

Any of these symptoms can be indicative of a more serious underlying problem. Do not hesitate to ask for help from your doctor or question the prescribed dosage if you are suffering from any of the above side effects.

In the event that Meloxicam induces a violent, adverse reaction, medical action should be sought immediately. In some cases Meloxicam can cause serious damage if the patient ignores the warning signs.

If you believe you have overdosed, call your local poison control office. It may induce a coma, seizures, stomach pain, vomiting, bloody stool, drowsiness, lack of movement, or extreme nausea. If left untreated, any of these symptoms can cause severe impairment for the patient.

Meloxicam in Women

The FDA advises that women who tryign to conceive or are undergoing investigation of infertility avoid using Meloxicam.  Human and animals studies have shown, that NSAIDs like Meloxicam can cause a reversible delay in ovulation.

Meloxicam is also not recommend for women who are currently pregnant or breastfeeding.

Meloxicam In the Elderly

Side effects are more likely to appear in the elderly. However, because the elderly frequently suffer from osteoarthritis, they are often prescribed Meloxicam.  Specific side effects for the elderly include lack of energy, dark or painful urination, bloody urination, bloody stool, abdominal pain, blurred vision, chronic fever, difficulty breathing or swallowing, swelling, hoarseness or a pale skin tone.

The Liver

Taking Meloxicam without drinking an adequate amount of water can lead to liver toxicity. For this reason, it is important to drink at least eight to ten 8-ounce glasses of water every day while taking Meloxicam. Do not lie down for about 20 after you take the drug. It is recommended that you take no more than 15 milligrams of the drug every day. Anything over that amount can cause internal bleeding or ulcers.

Side effects can be reduced or eradicated completely if you consult with your physician and use Meloxicam in an appropriate, responsible manner. Meloxicam can ease arthritis symptoms for middle age adults, the elderly, and children suffering from juvenile arthritis. Consult your healthcare practitioner if you have any further questions.