Meloxicam

GENERAL DESCRIPTION:

Metacam is a Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory drug (NSAID) used for the treatment of inflammation in dogs. It is typically prescribed to dogs with arthritis, joint pain, or muscle pain.

HOW IT WORKS:

NSAIDs work by reducing the enzyme COX-2. COX-2 is involved in the formation of prostaglandins which cause swelling and inflammation. Reduction of these factors reduce the pain and inflammation your pet experiences.

It used to be that NSAIDs could not effectively reduce COX-2 without also reducing another enzyme COX-1. Reduction of COX-1 would lead to increased side effects. Meloxicam is able to selectively reduce only COX-2 and therefore is safer to use.

STORAGE INFORMATION:

Store in a tightly sealed container. Read the storage instructions on the drug label as some forms may need to be refrigerated.

MISSED DOSE?

If you do miss a dose, give the dose as soon as possible. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose, and continue with the regular schedule. Do not give your pet two doses at once.

SIDE EFFECTS & DRUG REACTIONS

Meloxicam may result in these side effects:
* Nausea
* Loss of appetite
* Vomiting
* Softened stools
* Diarrhea
* Ulceration of the digestive tract

Meloxicam may react with these drugs:
* Digoxin
* Furosemide
* Diuretics
* Methotrexate
* Corticosteroids
* Other NSAIDs
* Other drugs that may cause ulceration of the digestive tract

USE CAUTION WHEN ADMINISTERING THIS DRUG TO CATS - Risk and severity of side effects increase when Meloxicam is given to cats. It is also very easy to overdose a cat, so caution should be used when administering. Do not use without the approval of your veterinarian and use exactly the amount of drops your veterinarian recommends.