Meloxicam- NSAID

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      MELOXICAM

MECHANISM OF ACTION –
 Anti-inflammatory effects of meloxicam are believed to be due to inhibition of prostaglandin synthetase (cylooxygenase), leading to the inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis. As prostaglandins sensitize pain receptors, inhibition of their synthesis may be associated with the analgesic and antipyretic effects of meloxicam.


PHARMACOLOGICAL ACTION –
Meloxicam is an nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) with analgesic and antipyretic properties. Prostaglandins are substances that contribute to inflammation of joints. Meloxicam inhibits prostaglandin synthetase (cylooxygenase 1 and 2) and leads to a decrease of the synthesis of prostaglandins, therefore, inflammation is reduced.

USES –
1. It is a NSAID used to relieve the symptoms of arthritis, primary dysmenorrhea, fever.
2. Used as an analgesic.

SIDE EFFECTS –
Shortness of breath.
Swelling or rapid weight gain.
Stomach bleeding
Liver problems
Loss of appetite
Nausea, itching,jaundice
Little or no urinating, painful or difficult urination
Anemia
Rapid heart rate
Fever, sore throat

DRUG-DRUG INTERACTION –
Meloxicam + Aliskiren = may decrease the antihypertensive activity of Aliskiren.
Meloxicam + Amitriptyline = may increase the antiplatelet activity of meloxicam.
Meloxicam + Abciximab = may increase the anticoagulant activity of Abciximab.

Reference- Tripathi K,D,"Essentials of medical pharmacology",7th edition,page no-192,204