While there are some common side effects associated with meloxicam, it is important to remember that doctors prescribe this medication because its benefits generally outweigh its side effects.
The most common side effects associated with meloxicam are diarrhea, constipation, indigestion, heartburn, sore throat, and gas. Talk to your doctor if any of these are severe or don’t go away.
Talk to your doctor right away if any less common, but serious, side effects occur including:
Chest pain, weakness, shortness of breath, slurred speech, problems with vision or balance
Tarry, black, or bloody stools
Vomit that looks like coffee grounds or coughing up blood
Rapid weight gain or swelling (particularly of the ankles/feet)
Let your doctor know of all allergies you may have as well as a complete list of medications (prescription and over-the-counter), vitamins, and supplements that you’re taking. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.
The use of NSAIDs such as meloxicam may increase the risk of serious cardiovascular events such as heart attack and stroke. They may also increase the risk of adverse gastrointestinal events such as bleeding, ulceration, and perforation of the stomach or intestines.
This is not a complete list of meloxicam side effects. For more information regarding precautions and possible side effects, please visit the National Institutes of Health’s DailyMed webpage.