MedPath

meloxicam

These highlights do not include all the information needed to use Meloxicam Tablets USP safely and effectively. See full prescribing information for Meloxicam Tablets USP Meloxicam Tablets USP Initial U.S. Approval: 2000

Approved
Approval ID

0edec862-f3e8-46f6-b6d0-de0bc21dd3fb

Product Type

HUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUG LABEL

Effective Date

Aug 2, 2023

Manufacturers
FDA

Quality Care Products LLC

DUNS: 831276758

Products 1

Detailed information about drug products covered under this FDA approval, including NDC codes, dosage forms, ingredients, and administration routes.

meloxicam

Product Details

FDA regulatory identification and product classification information

FDA Identifiers
NDC Product Code35356-808
Application NumberANDA077927
Product Classification
M
Marketing Category
C73584
G
Generic Name
meloxicam
Product Specifications
Route of AdministrationORAL
Effective DateOctober 29, 2019
FDA Product Classification

INGREDIENTS (8)

MELOXICAMActive
Quantity: 7.5 mg in 1 1
Code: VG2QF83CGL
Classification: ACTIB
CROSPOVIDONEInactive
Code: 2S7830E561
Classification: IACT
LACTOSE MONOHYDRATEInactive
Code: EWQ57Q8I5X
Classification: IACT
MAGNESIUM STEARATEInactive
Code: 70097M6I30
Classification: IACT
SILICON DIOXIDEInactive
Code: ETJ7Z6XBU4
Classification: IACT
TRISODIUM CITRATE DIHYDRATEInactive
Code: B22547B95K
Classification: IACT
POVIDONE K29/32Inactive
Code: 390RMW2PEQ
Classification: IACT
CELLULOSE, MICROCRYSTALLINEInactive
Code: OP1R32D61U
Classification: IACT

Drug Labeling Information

CONTRAINDICATIONS SECTION

LOINC: 34070-3Updated: 9/15/2010

4. CONTRAINDICATIONS

4.1 Allergic Reactions

Meloxicam tablets are contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity (e.g. anaphylactoid reactions and serious skin reactions) to meloxicam.

Meloxicam tablets should not be given to patients who have experienced asthma, urticaria, or allergic-type reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs. Severe, rarely fatal, anaphylactic-like reactions to NSAIDs have been reported in such patients [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7, 5.13)].

4.2 Coronary Surgery

Meloxicam tablets are contraindicated for the treatment of peri-operative pain in the setting of coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].

Key Highlight
  • Known hypersensitivity (e.g., analphylactoid reactions and serious skin reactions) to meloxicam (4.1)
  • History of asthma, urticaria, or other allergic-type reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs (4.1)
  • Use during the peri-operative period in the setting of coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery (4.2)

WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS SECTION

LOINC: 43685-7Updated: 9/15/2010

5. WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

5.1 Cardiovascular Thrombotic Events

Clinical trials of several COX-2 selective and nonselective NSAIDs of up to three years’ duration have shown an increased risk of serious cardiovascular (CV) thrombotic events, myocardial infarction, and stroke, which can be fatal. All NSAIDs, both COX-2 selective and nonselective, may have a similar risk. Patients with known CV disease or risk factors for CV disease may be at greater risk. To minimize the potential risk for an adverse CV event in patients treated with an NSAID, the lowest effective dose should be used for the shortest duration possible. Physicians and patients should remain alert for the development of such events, even in the absence of previous CV symptoms. Patients should be informed about the signs and/or symptoms of serious CV events and the steps to take if they occur.

Two large, controlled, clinical trials of a COX-2 selective NSAID for the treatment of pain in the first 10-14 days following CABG surgery found an increased incidence of myocardial infarction and stroke [see Contraindications (4.2)].

There is no consistent evidence that concurrent use of aspirin mitigates the increased risk of serious CV thrombotic events associated with NSAID use. The concurrent use of aspirin and an NSAID does increase the risk of serious GI events [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].

5.2 Gastrointestinal (GI) Effects - Risk of GI Ulceration, Bleeding, and

Perforation

NSAIDs, including meloxicam tablets, can cause serious gastrointestinal (GI) adverse events including inflammation, bleeding, ulceration, and perforation of the stomach, small intestine, or large intestine, which can be fatal. These serious adverse events can occur at any time, with or without warning symptoms, in patients treated with NSAIDs. Only one in five patients who develop a serious upper GI adverse event on NSAID therapy is symptomatic. Upper GI ulcers, gross bleeding, or perforation caused by NSAIDs, occur in approximately 1% of patients treated for 3 to 6 months, and in about 2 to 4% of patients treated for one year. These trends continue with longer duration of use, increasing the likelihood of developing a serious GI event at some time during the course of therapy. However, even short-term therapy is not without risk.

Prescribe NSAIDS, including meloxicam tablets, with extreme caution in those with a prior history of ulcer disease or gastrointestinal bleeding. Patients with a prior history of peptic ulcer disease and/or gastrointestinal bleeding who use NSAIDs have a greater than 10-fold increased risk for developing a GI bleed compared to patients with neither of these risk factors. Other factors that increase the risk for GI bleeding in patients treated with NSAIDs include concomitant use of oral corticosteroids or anticoagulants, longer duration of NSAID therapy, smoking, use of alcohol, older age, and poor general health status. Most spontaneous reports of fatal GI events are in elderly or debilitated patients and therefore, special care should be taken in treating this population.

To minimize the potential risk for an adverse GI event in patients treated with an NSAID, use the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible duration. Patients and physicians should remain alert for signs and symptoms of GI ulceration and bleeding during meloxicam therapy and promptly initiate additional evaluation and treatment if a serious GI adverse event is suspected. This should include discontinuation of meloxicam until a serious GI adverse event is ruled out. For high-risk patients, consider alternate therapies that do not involve NSAIDs.

5.3 Hepatic Effects

Borderline elevations of one or more liver tests may occur in up to 15% of patients taking NSAIDs including meloxicam tablets. These laboratory abnormalities may progress, may remain unchanged, or may be transient with continuing therapy. Notable elevations of ALT or AST (approximately three or more times the upper limit of normal) have been reported in approximately 1% of patients in clinical trials with NSAIDs. In addition, rare cases of severe hepatic reactions, including jaundice and fatal fulminant hepatitis, liver necrosis and hepatic failure, some of them with fatal outcomes have been reported [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)].

A patient with symptoms and/or signs suggesting liver dysfunction, or in whom an abnormal liver test has occurred, should be evaluated for evidence of the development of a more severe hepatic reaction while on therapy with meloxicam. If clinical signs and symptoms consistent with liver disease develop, or if systemic manifestations occur (e.g., eosinophilia, rash, etc.), discontinue meloxicam [see Use in Specific Populations (8.6) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

5.4 Hypertension

NSAIDs, including meloxicam tablets, can lead to onset of new hypertension or worsening of pre-existing hypertension, either of which may contribute to the increased incidence of CV events. NSAIDs, including meloxicam tablets, should be used with caution in patients with hypertension. Blood pressure (BP) should be monitored closely during the initiation of NSAID treatment and throughout the course of therapy.

Patients taking ACE inhibitors, thiazides or loop diuretics may have impaired response to these therapies when taking NSAIDS.

5.5 Congestive Heart Failure and Edema

Fluid retention and edema have been observed in some patients taking NSAIDs. Use meloxicam with caution in patients with fluid retention, hypertension, or heart failure.

5.6 Renal Effects

Long-term administration of NSAIDs, including meloxicam tablets, can result in renal papillary necrosis, renal insufficiency, acute renal failure, and other renal injury. Renal toxicity has also been seen in patients in whom renal prostaglandins have a compensatory role in the maintenance of renal perfusion. In these patients, administration of a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug may cause a dose-dependent reduction in prostaglandin formation and, secondarily, in renal blood flow, which may precipitate overt renal decompensation. Patients at greatest risk of this reaction are those with impaired renal function, heart failure, liver dysfunction, those taking diuretics, ACE- inhibitors, and angiotensin II receptor antagonists, and the elderly. Discontinuation of NSAID therapy is usually followed by recovery to the pretreatment state.

A pharmacokinetic study in patients with mild and moderate renal impairment revealed that no dosage adjustments in these patient populations are required. Patients with severe renal impairment have not been studied. The use of meloxicam in patients with severe renal impairment with CrCl less than 20 mL/min is not recommended. A study performed in patients on hemodialysis revealed that although overall Cmax was diminished in this population, the proportion of free drug not bound to plasma was increased. Therefore it is recommended that meloxicam dosage in this population not exceed 7.5 mg per day. Closely monitor the renal function of patients with impaired renal function who are taking meloxicam. [see Dosage and Administration (2.1), Use in Specific Populations (8.7) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

Use caution when initiating treatment with meloxicam in patients with considerable dehydration. It is advisable to rehydrate patients first and then start therapy with meloxicam. Caution is also recommended in patients with pre-existing kidney disease.

The extent to which metabolites may accumulate in patients with renal impairment has not been studied with meloxicam. Because some meloxicam metabolites are excreted by the kidney, monitor patients with significant renal impairment closely.

5.7 Anaphylactoid Reactions

As with other NSAIDS, anaphylactoid reactions have occurred in patients without known prior exposure to meloxicam. Meloxicam should not be given to patients with the aspirin triad. This symptom complex typically occurs in asthmatic patients who experience rhinitis with or without nasal polyps, or who exhibit severe, potentially fatal bronchospasm after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs [see Contraindications (4.1) and Warnings and Precautions (5.12)]. Seek emergency help in cases where an anaphylactoid reaction occurs.

5.8 Adverse Skin Reactions

NSAIDs, including meloxicam tablets, can cause serious skin adverse events such as exfoliative dermatitis, Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS), and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), which can be fatal. These serious events may occur without warning. Inform patients about the signs and symptoms of serious skin manifestations and discontinue use of the drug at the first appearance of skin rash or any other sign of hypersensitivity.

5.9 .Pregnancy

Starting at 30 weeks gestation, avoid the use of meloxicam, because it may cause premature closure of the ductus arteriosus [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1) and Patient Counseling Information (17.8)].

5.10 Corticosteroid Treatment

Meloxicam cannot be expected to substitute for corticosteroids or to treat corticosteroid insufficiency. Abrupt discontinuation of corticosteroids may lead to disease exacerbation. Slowly taper patients on prolonged corticosteroid therapy if a decision is made to discontinue corticosteroids.

5.11 Masking of Inflammation and Fever

The pharmacological activity of meloxicam in reducing fever and inflammation may diminish the utility of these diagnostic signs in detecting complications of presumed noninfectious, painful conditions.

5.12 Hematological Effects

Anemia may occur in patients receiving NSAIDs, including meloxicam tablets. This may be due to fluid retention, occult or gross GI blood loss, or an incompletely described effect upon erythropoiesis. Patients on long-term treatment with NSAIDs, including meloxicam, should have their hemoglobin or hematocrit checked if they exhibit any signs or symptoms of anemia.

NSAIDs inhibit platelet aggregation and have been shown to prolong bleeding time in some patients. Unlike aspirin, their effect on platelet function is quantitatively less, of shorter duration, and reversible. Carefully monitor patients treated with meloxicam who may be adversely affected by alterations in platelet function, such as those with coagulation disorders or patients receiving anticoagulants.

5.13 Use in Patients with Pre-existing Asthma

Patients with asthma may have aspirin-sensitive asthma. The use of aspirin in patients with aspirin-sensitive asthma has been associated with severe bronchospasm, which can be fatal. Since cross reactivity, including bronchospasm, between aspirin and other NSAIDs has been reported in such aspirin-sensitive patients, meloxicam should not be administered to patients with this form of aspirin sensitivity and should be used with caution in patients with pre-existing asthma.

5.14 Monitoring

Because serious GI tract ulcerations and bleeding can occur without warning symptoms, physicians should monitor for signs or symptoms of GI bleeding. Patients on long-term treatment with NSAIDs should have their CBC and a chemistry profile checked periodically. If clinical signs and symptoms consistent with liver or renal disease develop, systemic manifestations occur (e.g., eosinophilia, rash, etc.) or if abnormal liver tests persist or worsen, meloxicam should be discontinued.

Key Highlight
  • Serious and potentially fatal cardiovascular (CV) thrombotic events, myocardial infarction, and stroke. Patients with known CV disease/risk factors may be at greater risk. (5.1)
  • Serious gastrointestinal (GI) adverse events which can be fatal. The risk is greater in patients with a prior history of ulcer disease or GI bleeding, and in patients at higher risk for GI events, especially the elderly. (5.2)
  • Elevated liver enzymes, and rarely, severe hepatic reactions. Discontinue use immediately if abnormal liver enzymes persist or worsen. (5.3)
  • New onset or worsening of hypertension. Blood pressure should be monitored closely during treatment. (5.4)
  • Fluid retention and edema. Should be used with caution in patients with fluid retention or heart failure. (5.5)
  • Renal papillary necrosis and other renal injury with long-term use. Use with caution in the elderly, those with impaired renal function, heart failure, liver dysfunction, and those taking diuretics, ACE-inhibitors, or angiotensin II antagonists. The use of meloxicam in patients with severe renal impairment is not recommended (5.6)
  • Serious skin adverse events such as exfoliative dermatitis, Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), which can be fatal and can occur without warning. Discontinue meloxicam tablets at first appearance of rash or skin reactions. (5.8)

ADVERSE REACTIONS SECTION

LOINC: 34084-4Updated: 9/15/2010

6. ADVERSE REACTIONS

Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice.

The following serious adverse reactions are discussed elsewhere in the labeling:

  • Cardiovascular thrombotic events [see Boxed Warning and Warnings and Precautions (5.1)]
  • Gastrointestinal effects – risk of GI ulceration, bleeding, and perforation [see Boxed Warning and Warnings and Precautions (5.2)]
  • Hepatic effects [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)]
  • Hypertension [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)]
  • Congestive heart failure and edema [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5)]
  • Renal effects [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6)]
  • Anaphylactoid reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7)]
  • Adverse skin reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8)]

6.1 Clinical Trials Experience

Adults

Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis

The meloxicam Phase 2/3 clinical trial database includes 10,122 OA patients and 1012 RA patients treated with meloxicam 7.5 mg/day, 3,505 OA patients and 1351 RA patients treated with meloxicam 15 mg/day. Meloxicam at these doses was administered to 661 patients for at least 6 months and to 312 patients for at least one year. Approximately 10,500 of these patients were treated in ten placebo- and/or active-controlled osteoarthritis trials and 2363 of these patients were treated in ten placebo- and/or active-controlled rheumatoid arthritis trials. Gastrointestinal (GI) adverse events were the most frequently reported adverse events in all treatment groups across meloxicam trials.

A 12-week multicenter, double-blind, randomized trial was conducted in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee or hip to compare the efficacy and safety of meloxicam with placebo and with an active control. Two 12-week multicenter, double-blind, randomized trials were conducted in patients with rheumatoid arthritis to compare the efficacy and safety of meloxicam with placebo.

Table 1a depicts adverse events that occurred in ≥2% of the meloxicam treatment groups in a 12-week placebo- and active-controlled osteoarthritis trial.

Table 1b depicts adverse events that occurred in ≥2% of the meloxicam treatment groups in two 12-week placebo- controlled rheumatoid arthritis trials.

Table 1a Adverse Events (%) Occurring in ≥ 2% of Meloxicam Patients in a 12-Week Osteoarthritis Placebo- and Active-Controlled Trial

1 WHO preferred terms edema, edema dependent, edema peripheral, and edema legs combined

2 WHO preferred terms rash, rash erythematous, and rash maculo-papular combined

Placebo****


Meloxicam7.5
mgdaily


Meloxicam15mg****
daily


Diclofenac**100**
mgdaily


No**.ofPatients**

157

154

156

153

Gastrointestinal

17.2

20.1

17.3

28.1

Abdominal pain

2.5

1.9

2.6

1.3

Diarrhea

3.8

7.8

3.2

9.2

Dyspepsia

4.5

4.5

4.5

6.5

Flatulence

4.5

3.2

3.2

3.9

Nausea

3.2

3.9

3.8

7.2

Bodyasa**Whole**


Accident household

1.9

4.5

3.2

2.6

Edema1

2.5

1.9

4.5

3.3

Fall

0.6

2.6

0.0

1.3

Influenza-like symptoms

5.1

4.5

5.8

2.6

CentralandPeripheralNervousSystem****


Dizziness

3.2

2.6

3.8

2.0

Headache

10.2

7.8

8.3

5.9

Respiratory****


Pharyngitis

1.3

0.6

3.2

1.3

Upper respiratory tract infection

1.9

3.2

1.9

3.3

Skin****


Rash2

2.5

2.6

0.6

2.0

Table 1b Adverse Events (%) Occurring in ≥2% of Meloxicam Patients in two 12-Week Rheumatoid Arthritis Placebo- Controlled Trials

1 MedDRA high level term (preferred terms): dyspeptic signs and symptoms (dyspepsia, dyspepsia aggravated, eructation, gastrointestinal irritation), upper respiratory tract infections-pathogen unspecified (laryngitis NOS, pharyngitis NOS, sinusitis NOS), joint related signs and symptoms (arthralgia, arthralgia aggravated, joint crepitation, joint effusion, joint swelling)

2 MedDRA preferred term: nausea, abdominal pain NOS, influenza-like illness, headaches NOS, and rash NOS

Placebo****


Meloxicam7.5mg****
daily


Meloxicam****
15mg
daily


No**.ofPatients******


469****


481****


477****


Gastrointestinal**Disorders**


14.1

18.9

16.8

Abdominal pain NOS2

0.6

2.9

2.3

Dyspeptic signs and symptoms1

3.8

5.8

4.0

Nausea2

2.6

3.3

3.8

**GeneralDisordersandAdministrationSiteConditions **


Influenza-like illness2

2.1

2.9

2.3

InfectionandInfestations****


Upper Respiratory tract infections-pathogen class unspecified1

4.1

7.0

6.5

MusculoskeletalandConnectiveTissueDisorders****


Joint related signs and symptoms1

1.9

1.5

2.3

NervousSystemDisorders****


Headaches NOS2

6.4

6.4

5.5

SkinandSubcutaneousTissueDisorders****


Rash NOS2

1.7

1.0

2.1

The adverse events that occurred with meloxicam in ≥2% of patients treated short-term (4-6 weeks) and long-term (6 months) in active-controlled osteoarthritis trials are presented in Table 2.

Table 2 Adverse Events (%) Occurring in ≥2% of Meloxicam Patients in 4 to 6 Weeks and 6 Month Active-Controlled Osteoarthritis Trials

1 WHO preferred terms edema, edema dependent, edema peripheral, and edema legs combined

2 WHO preferred terms rash, rash erythematous, and rash maculo-papular combined

4**-6WeeksControlledTrials******


6MonthControlled**Trials**


Meloxicam7.5mg****
daily


Meloxicam15mg****
daily


Meloxicam7.5mg****
daily


Meloxicam15mg****
daily


No**.ofPatients**

8955

256

169

306

Gastrointestinal

11.8

18.0

26.6

24.2

Abdominal pain

2.7

2.3

4.7

2.9

Constipation

0.8

1.2

1.8

2.6

Diarrhea

1.9

2.7

5.9

2.6

Dyspepsia

3.8

7.4

8.9

9.5

Flatulence

0.5

0.4

3.0

2.6

Nausea

2.4

4.7

4.7

7.2

Vomiting

0.6

0.8

1.8

2.6

Bodyasa****Whole

Accident household

0.0

0.0

0.6

2.9

Edema1

0.6

2.0

2.4

1.6

Pain

0.9

2.0

3.6

5.2

CentralandPeripheralNervousSystem

Dizziness

1.1

1.6

2.4

2.6

Headache

2.4

2.7

3.6

2.6

Hematologic

Anemia

0.1

0.0

4.1

2.9

Musculoskeletal

Arthralgia

0.5

0.0

5.3

1.3

Back pain

0.5

0.4

3.0

0.7

Psychiatric

Insomnia

0.4

0.0

3.6

1.6

Respiratory

Coughing

0.2

0.8

2.4

1.0

Upper respiratory tract infection

0.2

0.0

8.3

7.5

Skin

Pruritus

0.4

1.2

2.4

0.0

Rash2

0.3

1.2

3.0

1.3

Urinary

Micturition frequency****


0.1

0.4

2.4

1.3

Urinary tract infection****


0.3

0.4

4.7

6.9

Higher doses of meloxicam (22.5 mg and greater) have been associated with an increased risk of serious GI events; therefore, the daily dose of meloxicam should not exceed 15 mg.

The following is a list of adverse drug reactions occurring in <2% of patients receiving meloxicam in clinical trials involving approximately 16,200 patients.

Bodyasa****Whole

allergic reaction, face edema, fatigue, fever, hot flushes, malaise, syncope, weight decrease, weight increase

Cardiovascular

angina pectoris, cardiac failure, hypertension, hypotension, myocardial infarction, vasculitis

CentralandPeripheralNervousSystem

convulsions, paresthesia, tremor, vertigo

Gastrointestinal

colitis, dry mouth, duodenal ulcer, eructation, esophagitis, gastric ulcer, gastritis, gastroesophageal reflux, gastrointestinal hemorrhage, hematemesis, hemorrhagic duodenal ulcer, hemorrhagic gastric ulcer, intestinal perforation, melena, pancreatitis, perforated duodenal ulcer, perforated gastric ulcer, stomatitis ulcerative

HeartRateand****Rhythm

arrhythmia, palpitation, tachycardia

Hematologic

leukopenia, purpura, thrombocytopenia

LiverandBiliary****System

ALT increased, AST increased, bilirubinemia, GGT increased, hepatitis

MetabolicandNutritional

dehydration

Psychiatric

abnormal dreaming, anxiety, appetite increased, confusion, depression, nervousness, somnolence

Respiratory

asthma, bronchospasm, dyspnea

SkinandAppendages

alopecia, angioedema, bullous eruption, photosensitivity reaction, pruritus, sweating increased, urticaria

Special****Senses

abnormal vision, conjunctivitis, taste perversion, tinnitus

Urinary****System

albuminuria, BUN increased, creatinine increased, hematuria, renal failure

6.2 Post Marketing Experience

The following adverse reactions have been identified during post approval use of meloxicam. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure. Decisions about whether to include an adverse event from spontaneous reports in labeling are typically based on one or more of the following factors: (1) seriousness of the event, (2) number of reports, or (3) strength of causal relationship to the drug. Adverse reactions reported in worldwide post marketing experience or the literature include: acute urinary retention; agranulocytosis; alterations in mood (such as mood elevation); anaphylactoid reactions including shock; erythema multiforme; exfoliative dermatitis; interstitial nephritis; jaundice; liver failure; Stevens-Johnson syndrome, and toxic epidermal necrolysis.

Key Highlight
  • Most common (≥5% and greater than placebo) adverse events in adults are diarrhea, upper respiratory tract infections, dyspepsia, and influenza-like symptoms (6.1)

To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Unichem Pharmaceuticals (USA), Inc., Pharmacovigilance at 1-866-562-4616 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.

NONCLINICAL TOXICOLOGY SECTION

LOINC: 43680-8Updated: 9/15/2010

13. NONCLINICAL TOXICOLOGY

13.1 Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment Of Fertility

Carcinogenesis: There was no increase in tumor incidence in long-term carcinogenicity studies in rats (104 weeks) and mice (99 weeks) administered meloxicam at oral doses up to 0.8 mg/kg/day in rats and up to 8.0 mg/kg/day in mice (up to 0.5- and 2.6-fold, respectively, the maximum recommended human daily dose based on body surface area comparison).

Mutagenesis: Meloxicam was not mutagenic in an Ames assay, or clastogenic in a chromosome aberration assay with human lymphocytes and an in vivo micronucleus test in mouse bone marrow.

Impairment of Fertility: Meloxicam did not impair male and female fertility in rats at oral doses up to 9 mg/kg/day in males and 5 mg/kg/day in females (up to 5.8- and 3.2-fold greater, respectively, than the maximum recommended human daily dose based on body surface area comparison).

CLINICAL STUDIES SECTION

LOINC: 34092-7Updated: 9/15/2010

14. CLINICAL STUDIES

14.1 Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis

The use of meloxicam for the treatment of the signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis of the knee and hip was evaluated in a 12-week, double-blind, controlled trial. Meloxicam (3.75 mg, 7.5 mg, and 15 mg daily) was compared to placebo. The four primary endpoints were investigator’s global assessment, patient global assessment, patient pain assessment, and total WOMAC score (a self-administered questionnaire addressing pain, function, and stiffness). Patients on meloxicam 7.5 mg daily and meloxicam 15 mg daily showed significant improvement in each of these endpoints compared with placebo.

The use of meloxicam for the management of signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis was evaluated in six double-blind, active-controlled trials outside the U.S. ranging from 4 weeks’ to 6 months’ duration. In these trials, the efficacy of meloxicam, in doses of 7.5 mg/day and 15 mg/day, was comparable to piroxicam 20 mg/day and diclofenac SR 100 mg/day and consistent with the efficacy seen in the U.S. trial.

The use of meloxicam for the treatment of the signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis was evaluated in a 12-week, double-blind, controlled multinational trial. Meloxicam (7.5 mg, 15 mg, and 22.5 mg daily) was compared to placebo. The primary endpoint in this study was the ACR20 response rate, a composite measure of clinical, laboratory, and functional measures of RA response. Patients receiving meloxicam 7.5 mg and 15 mg daily showed significant improvement in the primary endpoint compared with placebo. No incremental benefit was observed with the 22.5 mg dose compared to the 15 mg dose.

INFORMATION FOR PATIENTS SECTION

LOINC: 34076-0Updated: 9/15/2010

17. PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION

See FDA-approved Medication Guide

**Patients should be informed of the following information before initiating therapy with an NSAID and periodically during the course of ongoing therapy. **

17.1 Medication Guide

Inform patients of the availability of a Medication Guide for NSAIDs that accompanies each prescription dispensed, and instruct them to read the Medication Guide prior to using meloxicam tablets.

17.2 Cardiovascular Effects

NSAIDS including meloxicam tablets, may cause serious CV side effects, such as MI or stroke, which may result in hospitalization and even death. Although serious CV events can occur without warning symptoms, patients should be alert for the signs and symptoms of chest pain, shortness of breath, weakness, slurring of speech, and should ask for medical advice when observing any indicative sign or symptoms. Patients should be apprised of the importance of this follow-up [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].

17.3 Gastrointestinal Effects

NSAIDS including meloxicam tablets, can cause GI discomfort and, rarely, serious GI side effects, such as ulcers and bleeding, which may result in hospitalization and even death. Although serious GI tract ulcerations and bleeding can occur without warning symptoms, patients should be alert for the signs and symptoms of ulcerations and bleeding, and should ask for medical advice when observing any indicative sign or symptoms including epigastric pain, dyspepsia, melena, and hematemesis. Patients should be apprised of the importance of this follow-up [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].

17.4 Hepatotoxicity

Inform patients of the warning signs and symptoms of hepatotoxicity (e.g., nausea, fatigue, lethargy, pruritus, jaundice, right upper quadrant tenderness, and "flu-like" symptoms). If these occur, instruct patients to stop therapy and seek immediate medical therapy [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)].

17.5 Adverse Skin Reactions

NSAIDS, including meloxicam tablets, can cause serious skin side effects such as exfoliative dermatitis, Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS), and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), which may result in hospitalization and even death. Although serious skin reactions may occur without warning, patients should be alert for the signs and symptoms of skin rash and blisters, fever, or other signs of hypersensitivity such as itching, and should ask for medical advice when observing any indicative signs or symptoms. Advise patients to stop the drug immediately if they develop any type of rash and contact their physicians as soon as possible [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8)].

17.6 Weight Gain and Edema

Advise patients to promptly report signs or symptoms of unexplained weight gain or edema to their physicians [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5)].

17.7 Anaphylactoid Reactions

Inform patients of the signs of an anaphylactoid reaction (e.g., difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat). Instruct patients to seek immediate emergency help [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7)].

17.8 Effects During Pregnancy

Starting at 30 weeks gestation, meloxicam should be avoided as premature closure of the ductus arteriosus in the fetus may occur [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9) and Use in Specific Populations (8.1)].

SPL MEDGUIDE SECTION

LOINC: 42231-1Updated: 9/15/2010

Medication Guide for Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs.)

(See the end of this Medication Guide for a list of prescription NSAID medicines.)

What is the most important information I know about medicines called Non - Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)?

**NSAID medicines may increase the chance of a heart attack or stroke that can lead to death.**This chance increases:

  • with longer use of NSAID medicines
  • in people who have heart disease

NSAID medicines should never be used right before or after a heart surgery called a "coronary artery bypass graft (CABG)."

NSAID medicines can cause ulcers and bleeding in the stomach and intestines time during treatment. Ulcers bleeding:

  • can happen without warning symptoms
  • may cause death

The chance of a person getting an ulcer or bleeding increases with:

  • taking medicines called "corticosteroids" and "anticoagulants"
  • longer use
  • smoking
  • drinking alcohol
  • older age
  • having poor health

NSAID medicines should only be used:

  • exactly as prescribed
  • at the lowest dose possible for your treatment
  • for the shortest time needed

What are Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)?

NSAID medicines are used to treat pain and redness, swelling, and heat (inflammation) from medical conditions such as:

  • different types of arthritis
  • menstrual cramps and other types of short-term pain

Who should not take a Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID)?

Do not take an NSAID medicine:

  • if you had an asthma attack, hives, or other allergic reaction with aspirin or any other NSAID medicine
  • for pain right before or after heart bypass surgery

Tell your healthcare provider:

  • about all of your medical conditions
  • about all of the medicines you take. NSAIDs and some other medicines can interact with each other and cause serious side effects.Keep a list of your medicines to show to your healthcare provider and pharmacist.
  • if you are pregnant. NSAID medicines should not be used by pregnant and women late in their pregnancy.
  • if you are breastfeeding. Talk to your doctor.

What are the possible side effects of Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)?

Serious side effects include:

  • heart attack
  • stroke
  • high blood pressure
  • heart failure from body swelling (fluid retention)
  • kidney problems including kidney failure
  • bleeding and ulcers in the stomach and intestine
  • low red blood cells (anemia)
  • life-threatening skin reactions
  • life-threatening allergic reactions
  • liver problems including liver failure
  • asthma attacks in people who have asthma

Other side effects include:

  • stomach pain
  • constipation
  • diarrhea
  • gas
  • heartburn
  • nausea
  • vomiting
  • dizziness

Get emergency help right away if you have any of the following symptoms:

  • shortness of breath or trouble breathing
  • chest pain
  • weakness in one part or side of your body
  • slurred speech
  • swelling of the face or throat

Stop your NSAID medicine and call your healthcare provider right away if you have any of the following symptoms:

  • nausea
  • more tired or weaker than usual
  • itching
  • your skin or eyes look yellow
  • stomach pain
  • flu-like symptoms
  • vomit blood
  • there is blood in your bowel movement or it is black and sticky like tar
  • unusual weight gain
  • skin rash or blisters with fever
  • swelling of the arms and legs, hands and feet

These are not all the side effects with NSAID medicines. Talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist for more information about NSAID medicines.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1800-FDA-1088.

Other information about Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

  • Aspirin is an NSAID medicine but it does not increase the chance of a heart attack. Aspirin can cause bleeding in the brain, stomach, and intestines. Aspirin can also cause ulcers in the stomach and intestines.
  • Some of these NSAID medicines are sold in lower doses without a prescription (over-the-counter). Talk to your healthcare provider before using over-the-counter NSAIDs for more than 10 days.

NSAID medicines that need prescription

  • Vicoprofen contains the same dose of ibuprofen as over-the-counter (OTC) NSAIDs, and is usually used for less than 10 days to treat pain. The OTC NSAID label warns that long-term continuous use may increase the risk of heart attack or stroke.

Generic****Name

Tradename

Celecoxib

Celebrex

Diclofenac

Cataflam, Voltaren, Arthrotec (combined with misoprostol)

Diflunisal

Dolobid

Etodolac

Lodine, Lodine XL

Fenoprofen

Nalfon, Nalfon 200

Flurbiprofen

Ansaid

Ibuprofen

Motrin, Tab-Profen, Vicoprofen* (combined with hydrocodone), Combunox (combined with oxycodone)

Indomethacin

Indocin, Indocin SR, Indo-Lemmon, Indomethagan

Ketoprofen

Oruvail

Ketorolac

Toradol

Mefenamic Acid

Ponstel

Meloxicam

Mobic

Nabumetone

Relafen

Naproxen

Naprosyn, Anaprox, Anaprox DS, EC- Naprosyn, Naprelan, Naprapac (co-packaged with lansoprazole)

Oxaprozin

Daypro

Piroxicam

Feldene

Sulindac

Clinoril

Tolmetin

Tolectin, Tolectin DS, Tolectin 600

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