A Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID) Prescribed to Relieve Pain and Inflammation
Meloxicam is not a narcotic.
Today, the term narcotic generally refers to an illegal drug or aprescription opioid drugthat is addictive.
Healthcare providers may prescribe meloxicam for other uses besides the conditions listed above.
Smith Collection / Gado / Contributor / Getty Images
For example, the drug may be prescribed off-label for back pain.
Is Meloxicam Addictive?
Some pain-relieving medications can be addictive, but meloxicam isn’t one of them.
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.
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 asNSAIDs.
That being said, NSAIDs still carry other risks regarding drug safety and potential adverse effects.
Safety
Like all NSAIDs, meloxicams labeling carries aboxed warning.
This section describes these warnings and other important safety information about meloxicam.
This risk is higher for people who take NSAIDs long-term.
Warning of gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding: NSAIDs may causeulcersorbleeding in the stomach or intestines.
But if your symptoms feel life-threatening or you think you have a medical emergency, call 911.
Precautions
Meloxicam isnt safe for everyone.
Other factors are considered precautions for meloxicam due to the increased risk of severe side effects.
Taking certain medications with meloxicam can increase the risk of bleeding.
Examples includeLasix (furosemide)and Microzide (hydrochlorothiazide).
Alternatives
Alternatively, nondrug options are available formanaging symptoms of arthritis.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
No.
Meloxicam is a generic medication for relieving arthritis pain and inflammation.
It is not a strong painkiller or opioid.
Meloxicam oral tablet is FDA-approved for treating the symptoms of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and juvenile rheumatoid arthritis.
Meloxicam is a generic prescription medication.
It belongs to a class of drugs known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Discontinued brand-name versions are Mobic, Qmiiz, and Vivlodex.Generic versions are still available.
The maximum dose of meloxicam is 15 mg, taken once daily.
How long youll continue taking meloxicam depends on your symptoms and the severity of your condition.
Food and Drug Administration.Orange Book: Approved drug products with therapeutic equivalence evaluations.
2018;118(6):24-30. doi:10.17116/jnevro20181186124
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Commonly used terms.
Martin A, Chopra R, Nicassio PM.Nonpharmacologic pain management in inflammatory arthritis.Rheum Dis Clin North Am.
2020;7(11):67. doi:10.3390/medicines7110067
DailyMed.Meloxicam capsule label.
