Is Meloxicam a Narcotic?
A Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID) Prescribed to Relieve Pain and Inflammation
Medically reviewed by Femi Aremu, PharmD
Meloxicam is not a narcotic.
Today, the term “narcotic” generally refers to an illegal drug or a prescription opioid drug that is addictive. or habit-forming. Meloxicam is a generic medication prescribed to relieve arthritis pain and inflammation, but it is not a strong painkiller or opioid.
Meloxicam is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), a drug class that doesn’t carry risks of addiction or abuse.
This article explains meloxicam, its uses, potential side effects, and other important safety information regarding its use.
Uses of Meloxicam
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved meloxicam oral tablet to relieve the symptoms associated with the following conditions:
Osteoarthritis (OA) in adults
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in adults
Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA) in children weighing more than 132 pounds, equal to 60 kilograms (kg) (under this weight will be determined by the child's healthcare provider)
Meloxicam also comes in other forms, including the following:
Oral capsule
Oral suspension
Injectable forms
The approved uses of meloxicam may differ with the specific form. For instance, meloxicam oral suspension is approved for children two and older with JRA in addition to adults with OA or RA.
Healthcare providers may prescribe meloxicam for other uses besides the conditions listed above. For example, the drug may be prescribed off-label for back pain.
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Bottle of medication Meloxidyl (meloxicam)Is Meloxicam Addictive?
Meloxicam is not addictive. Some pain-relieving medications can be addictive, but meloxicam isn't one of them.
In the past, the term "narcotic drug" was sometimes used to describe any substance that relieves pain and dulls the senses. Now, the medical community uses more precise terminology (e.g., "opioid" or "non-opioid") to avoid confusion.
Modern definitions, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ( CDC), include:
Opioids: Opioids are chemicals that interact with opioid receptors in the body and brain. They reduce the intensity of pain signals. Examples of opioids include heroin, fentanyl, oxycodone, hydrocodone, codeine, and morphine. Some are illegal, while others are available via prescription.
Opioid analgesics: Also known as prescription opioids or painkillers, these medications are used to relieve moderate to severe pain when other types of pain-relieving therapies aren't effective.
"Addiction" is also considered a somewhat outdated term. Now, other terms are preferred, including "opioid dependence" and "opioid use disorder."
With opioid dependence, the body gets used to regular opioid use. As a result, uncomfortable physical symptoms occur when the medication is stopped. Opioid addiction, also known as opioid use disorder, occurs when attempts to reduce or control use are unsuccessful, leading to social problems and neglect of responsibilities. Addiction often comes after dependence develops, making it hard to stop using opioids and increasing the risk of withdrawal.
The good news is that none of these terms are relevant to meloxicam. Meloxicam is not an opioid. Instead, it belongs to a class of drugs known as NSAIDs. Other common NSAIDs include the following:
Voltaren (diclofenac)
Cataflam (diclofenac)
Advil or Motrin (ibuprofen)
Aleve (naproxen sodium)
Some NSAIDs require a prescription, but many are available over the counter.
That being said, NSAIDs still carry other risks regarding drug safety and potential adverse effects.
Safety
Like all NSAIDs, meloxicam’s labeling carries black box warnings. These warnings from the FDA highlight the significant risks of a potentially dangerous medication. This section describes these warnings and other important safety information about meloxicam.
Warning of cardiovascular risks: Taking NSAIDs, such as meloxicam, may increase the risk of experiencing a heart attack or stroke. This risk is higher for people who take NSAIDs long-term. It is essential not to take meloxicam if you have recently had a heart attack and to inform your healthcare provider of any history of heart disease or other health conditions.
Warning of gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding: NSAIDs may cause ulcers or bleeding in the stomach or intestines. It is essential to inform your healthcare provider of any other medications you are taking, as certain drugs or supplements can further raise your risk of GI bleeding. In addition, older adults (ages 65 years and older) and those with a history of peptic ulcer disease or GI bleeding have a higher risk of experiencing GI bleeding or ulcers. Tell your provider right away if you develop symptoms such as abdominal pain or blood in your stool or vomit.
Side Effects
Common side effects of meloxicam oral tablet may include the following:
Serious side effects of meloxicam are uncommon but possible. These side effects and their symptoms can include, but are not limited to, the following:
Severe edema, whose symptoms include swelling of the abdomen, feet, ankles, or lower legs, or sudden, unexplained weight gain
Unusual bruising or bleeding
Liver problems, with symptoms of abdominal pain, yellowing of the skin or eyes, nausea, vomiting
High blood pressure, which does not typically cause symptoms, but regular blood pressure monitoring is recommended to watch for this side effect while taking NSAIDs
Kidney problems, including acute kidney failure noticeable as changes in urination
Serious allergic reactions, including severe swelling of the face or tongue, rash, or other skin reactions
Contact your healthcare provider right away if you have severe side effects while taking meloxicam. But if your symptoms feel life-threatening or you think you have a medical emergency, call 911.
Precautions
Meloxicam isn’t safe for everyone. Healthcare providers may not prescribe this medication if you have had either of the following:
Severe allergic reaction after taking another NSAID or aspirin
Recent heart attack or heart bypass surgery (or are scheduled to have this surgery soon)
These factors are contraindications for meloxicam.
Other factors are considered precautions for meloxicam due to the increased risk of severe side effects. NSAIDs should be used with caution if you have the following conditions or factors:
Older age
Interactions
As with all NSAIDs, meloxicam may interact with other drugs. This section describes some of the most important interactions, but others are possible.
Speak with a pharmacist or healthcare provider to ensure meloxicam is safe to take with your other medications and supplements.
Taking certain medications with meloxicam can increase the risk of bleeding. Examples include the following:
Anticoagulants (blood thinners), such as Jantoven (warfarin)
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as Lexapro (escitalopram) or Zoloft (sertraline)
Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, such as Cymbalta (duloxetine)
Meloxicam may also reduce the effectiveness of certain blood pressure medications, including the following:
Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, such as Zestril (lisinopril)
Angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), such as Diovan (valsartan) or Cozaar (losartan)
Beta-blockers, such as Toprol XL (metoprolol)
In addition, taking meloxicam along with diuretics (help reduce fluid build-up) can raise the risk of kidney problems. Examples include Lasix (furosemide) and Microzide (hydrochlorothiazide).
Alternatives
Alternatively, nondrug options are available for managing symptoms of arthritis. While evidence is sometimes limited, some nonpharmacologic approaches that may be helpful include the following:
Mindfulness practices, such as mediation
Exercise to ease stiffness
Tai chi
Splinting of affected body parts
Certain supplements
While individual results may vary, some people find relief from one or more of these methods without needing medication. Others feel that these strategies are more helpful alongside an NSAID or other pain-relieving medication.
Whether you're looking for drug or nondrug alternatives to meloxicam, consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice.
Summary
Meloxicam is a non-narcotic medication used to relieve pain and inflammation. It belongs to the class of drugs known as NSAIDs and is not addictive.
Still, meloxicam carries other risks, including severe cardiovascular problems and gastrointestinal bleeding.
So, it is essential to discuss the pros and cons of taking meloxicam with a healthcare provider, especially if you have health conditions or take other medications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is meloxicam a narcotic?
No. Meloxicam is a generic medication for relieving arthritis pain and inflammation. It is not a strong painkiller or opioid.
What is meloxicam used for?
Meloxicam oral tablet is FDA-approved for treating the symptoms of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. It helps to ease joint pain and swelling associated with these conditions. Healthcare providers may also recommend meloxicam for other types of pain involving inflammation.
What is meloxicam?
Meloxicam is a generic prescription medication. It belongs to a class of drugs known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Mobic is the brand name of meloxicam oral tablets. Discontinued brand-name versions are Qmiiz and Vivlodex. Generic versions are still available.
How long can you take meloxicam 15 mg?
The maximum dose of meloxicam is 15 mg, taken once daily. How long you’ll continue taking meloxicam depends on your symptoms and the severity of your condition. Due to the increased risk of side effects with long-term use, your provider will likely recommend taking meloxicam at the lowest effective dose for the shortest time possible.
Read the original article on Verywell Health.
