What is the best time of day to take Meloxicam? 

What is the best time of day to take Meloxicam? 

You can take Meloxicam at any time of the day. There’s no specific time to take this medication, but it’s best to take it at the same time each day, whether in the morning or at night. Meloxicam is available in both OTC and prescription forms. 

If your doctor has prescribed this medication, make sure you take it just as your doctor has recommended. If you’re using Meloxicam over the counter, you can take it at any time of the day. 

If you’re confused as to which time is appropriate, you can take it after lunch. Meloxicam doesn’t really come with restrictions, but it’s best to take it after your meals. 

This is because Meloxicam is an NSAID, and the entire class of these meds is associated with gastrointestinal side effects, which are more prominent when you take the medicine on an empty stomach or if you lie down immediately after taking it. 

So, make sure you remember these things when taking Meloxicam and do not take it unnecessarily. If you’re not sure how many days you should take OTC Meloxicam, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. 

Does the timing of taking Meloxicam affect drug efficacy?

The timing of taking Meloxicam may affect its efficacy. Meloxicam is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) commonly used to reduce pain and inflammation (1,2).

These drugs are associated with gastrointestinal side effects, which are more prominent when you take the medicine on an empty stomach or if you lie down immediately after taking it. This is why it is usually recommended to take Meloxicam with food to minimize the risk of stomach upset.

Taking it with food can also enhance its absorption and improve its effectiveness. However, it is important to follow the specific instructions provided by your healthcare professional or as mentioned on the medication label.

How to ensure the proper use of Meloxicam? 

To ensure the proper use of Meloxicam, there are a few key points to keep in mind (3):

  • Follow the prescribed dosage. Take Meloxicam exactly as prescribed by your healthcare professional. 
  • Do not exceed the recommended dose or take it more frequently than instructed.
  • To minimize the risk of stomach upset, it is generally recommended to take Meloxicam with food.
  • Inform your doctor about all the medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements. 
  • If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking Meloxicam, such as stomach pain, bleeding, or allergic reactions, notify your healthcare provider immediately.
  • Inform your healthcare provider if you have any medical conditions, such as heart disease, high blood pressure, or kidney problems.

Always consult with your healthcare professional for personalized advice and guidance on the proper use of Meloxicam based on your specific health condition and needs.

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References

1.-

Ghlichloo I, Gerriets V. Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs). 2023 May 1. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan–. PMID: 31613522. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK547742

2.-

Shavlovskaya OA, Bokova IA, Shavlovskiy NI. Klinicheskie effekty meloksikama [Meloxicam clinical effects]. Zh Nevrol Psikhiatr Im S S Korsakova. 2022;122(1):36-42. Russian. doi: 10.17116/jnevro202212201136. PMID: 35175701. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35175701/

3.-

Ogino K, Saito K, Osugi T, Satoh H. [Meloxicam (Mobic): a review of its pharmacological and clinical profile]. Nihon Yakurigaku Zasshi. 2002 Dec;120(6):391-7. Japanese. doi: 10.1254/fpj.120.391. PMID: 12528470. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12528470/