Mobic (meloxicam) is a prescription nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) belonging to the enolic acid class, specifically designed to manage pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Its mechanism of action involves the selective inhibition of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), an enzyme responsible for prostaglandin synthesis at sites of inflammation. This targeted approach helps reduce the classic signs of inflammation—pain, swelling, and stiffness—while potentially offering an improved gastrointestinal tolerability profile compared to some traditional non-selective NSAIDs. Available in oral tablet form, Mobic is indicated for the symptomatic relief and improvement in functional status in adult patients, providing a cornerstone in the long-term management of chronic arthritic conditions.

Features

• Active Ingredient: Meloxicam (7.5 mg or 15 mg tablets)
• Drug Class: Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug (NSAID), selective COX-2 inhibitor
• Formulation: Oral tablets
• Prescription Status: Rx-only medication
• Manufacturer: Various pharmaceutical companies under license
• Half-life: Approximately 15-20 hours, allowing for once-daily dosing
• Bioavailability: ~89% following oral administration
• Protein Binding: >99%, primarily to albumin

Benefits

• Provides effective and sustained relief from chronic arthritic pain, improving daily functional capacity
• Reduces joint swelling and morning stiffness, enhancing mobility and quality of life
• Once-daily dosing regimen supports medication adherence and convenience
• Demonstrates a favorable gastrointestinal safety profile relative to some non-selective NSAIDs
• Helps manage inflammatory processes at the cellular level, addressing the root cause of symptoms
• Supports long-term arthritis management when used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan

Common use

Mobic is primarily prescribed for the symptomatic treatment of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis in adults. In osteoarthritis, it helps alleviate pain and improve joint function in affected weight-bearing and non-weight-bearing joints. For rheumatoid arthritis patients, Mobic reduces the pain, swelling, and stiffness associated with this autoimmune condition. Some clinicians may prescribe it off-label for other inflammatory conditions such as ankylosing spondylitis or acute musculoskeletal pain, though these uses are not formally approved. The medication is typically incorporated into a broader treatment strategy that may include physical therapy, lifestyle modifications, and other disease-modifying agents, particularly for rheumatoid arthritis where it serves as a symptomatic treatment rather than altering disease progression.

Dosage and direction

The recommended initial dose for osteoarthritis is 7.5 mg taken once daily. Depending on therapeutic response, this may be increased to a maximum of 15 mg once daily. For rheumatoid arthritis, the recommended dose is 15 mg once daily, though some patients may be maintained on 7.5 mg daily based on individual response and tolerability. Mobic should be taken with a full glass of water and may be administered with food or milk to minimize potential gastrointestinal discomfort. Tablets should be swallowed whole and not crushed, chewed, or split. The lowest effective dose should be used for the shortest duration consistent with individual treatment goals. Renal function should be assessed in elderly patients and those with conditions predisposing to renal impairment before initiating and during treatment.

Precautions

Patients should be monitored for signs of gastrointestinal ulceration or bleeding, especially those with a history of peptic ulcer disease or GI bleeding. Cardiovascular risk assessment is recommended, as NSAIDs may increase the risk of serious cardiovascular thrombotic events. Renal function should be monitored periodically, particularly in elderly patients, those with dehydration, heart failure, hepatic dysfunction, or taking diuretics or ACE inhibitors. Hepatic function should be assessed at baseline and periodically during long-term therapy. Patients should be advised to avoid alcohol consumption during treatment due to increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding. Caution is advised in patients with hypertension, as NSAIDs can lead to new-onset hypertension or worsening of pre-existing hypertension. Use with caution in patients with asthma, especially those with aspirin-sensitive asthma, as exacerbation may occur.

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 allergic-type reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs. Contraindicated in the setting of coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery. Should not be used in patients with active peptic ulcer disease or recent gastrointestinal bleeding. Contraindicated in patients with severe hepatic impairment or active liver disease. Not recommended for patients with advanced renal disease or those undergoing dialysis. Should not be used during the third trimester of pregnancy due to potential risk of premature closure of the ductus arteriosis.

Possible side effect

Common side effects (≥1%) include dyspepsia, nausea, abdominal pain, diarrhea, flatulence, constipation, dizziness, headache, and peripheral edema. Less frequently reported effects include hypertension, tinnitus, pruritus, rash, and mild elevations in liver enzymes. Serious side effects requiring immediate medical attention include signs of gastrointestinal bleeding (hematemesis, melena, hematochezia), symptoms of heart failure (unexplained weight gain, edema, shortness of breath), signs of liver dysfunction (jaundice, dark urine, right upper quadrant pain), skin reactions (blistering, peeling, rash), and signs of anaphylaxis. Renal effects may include reduced creatinine clearance, elevated serum creatinine, and rarely, acute renal failure.

Drug interaction

Mobic may increase the toxicity of lithium by reducing its renal clearance. Concurrent use with other NSAIDs or aspirin may increase the risk of gastrointestinal adverse effects without therapeutic benefit. May reduce the antihypertensive effect of ACE inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor blockers, and beta-blockers. Can diminish the natriuretic effect of furosemide and thiazide diuretics. May increase the risk of bleeding when used with warfarin or other anticoagulants. Concomitant use with corticosteroids increases the risk of gastrointestinal ulceration. Cyclosporine and tacrolimus may increase the risk of nephrotoxicity when combined with Mobic. Methotrexate levels may be increased, potentially enhancing toxicity. Cholestyramine may increase the clearance of meloxicam.

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 double the dose to make up for a missed one. Consistency in dosing is important for maintaining stable anti-inflammatory effects, but occasional missed doses are unlikely to significantly impact overall efficacy in chronic management. Patients should be advised to maintain a consistent dosing routine, potentially using reminder systems if adherence is challenging.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose may include lethargy, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, epigastric pain, gastrointestinal bleeding, hypertension, acute renal failure, respiratory depression, and coma. In case of suspected overdose, seek immediate medical attention. Management is supportive and symptomatic with no specific antidote. Gastric lavage or activated charcoal may be considered if ingestion was recent. Hemodialysis is not effective due to high protein binding. Supportive measures should include monitoring of vital signs, renal function, electrolyte status, and hematological parameters. Gastroprotective agents may be administered if gastrointestinal symptoms are present.

Storage

Store at room temperature (20-25°C or 68-77°F) in the original container, protected from light and moisture. Keep tightly closed when not in use. Do not store in bathroom areas where humidity levels may fluctuate. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use after the expiration date printed on the packaging. Properly dispose of any unused medication through medication take-back programs or according to FDA-recommended disposal methods if no take-back program is available.

Disclaimer

This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Mobic is a prescription medication that should be used only under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. Individual response to medication may vary, and only your healthcare provider can determine if this medication is appropriate for your specific condition. Do not initiate, discontinue, or change dosage without consulting your physician. Report any adverse effects to your healthcare provider promptly. This information is not exhaustive; please refer to the full prescribing information for complete details.

Reviews

Clinical studies have demonstrated Mobic’s efficacy in improving pain scores and physical function in osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis patients. In a 12-month study of osteoarthritis patients, Mobic 7.5 mg and 15 mg daily showed significant improvement in WOMAC pain and function scores compared to placebo. Rheumatoid arthritis trials demonstrated significant improvement in ACR20 response rates compared to placebo. Many patients report improved quality of life and reduced morning stiffness. Some reviews note gastrointestinal tolerability as superior to some traditional NSAIDs, though individual experiences vary. Long-term users appreciate the once-daily dosing convenience. As with all NSAIDs, physicians emphasize the importance of using the lowest effective dose for the shortest necessary duration and monitoring for potential adverse effects.