Meloxicam is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) prescribed to treat pain, swelling and inflammation. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved its use in humans and dogs, with limited use for cats as an injectable solution. The veterinary formulation is available as the brand Metacam. Several side effects are possible.
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Function
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Meloxicam, as other NSAIDs, inhibits the action of cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes involved in causing inflammation and pain. Most NSAIDs should not be used in dogs because of the possibility of severe side effects, but meloxicam has a somewhat different chemical makeup.
Common Side Effects
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Common liquid meloxicam side effects in dogs include loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea and apathy.
Warning
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Unlikely, but severe, gastrointestinal effects call for immediate veterinary attention. These include blood in the stools, vomiting blood and pain that may indicate ulcers or intestinal perforation. Other rare, but serious, side effects include sudden kidney damage, liver dysfunction and increased bleeding.
Drug Interactions
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Dogs who are receiving aspirin or corticosteroids may not be able to safely take meloxicam because the combination can cause increased bleeding. ACE inhibitor blood pressure medicine may not work as effectively when combined with meloxicam.
Contraindications
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Dogs with certain health disorders should not receive meloxicam. These include dehydration, low blood pressure, a history of gastrointestinal bleeding or perforation, and heart, liver or kidney disease. Dogs in the last trimester of pregnancy and puppies under 6 weeks of age also should not receive meloxicam.
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