Meloxicam (trade name Mobic), one of the most commonly prescribed nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in the United States, is most commonly used to treat chronic joint inflammation and pain due to injury or diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis.
It comes in tablet form, which people typically take once or twice daily. It’s a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that works by reducing hormones that cause inflammation, pain, and fever in the body.
Meloxicam usually begins working within one hour of taking it and will last up to 12 hours with proper dosing.
But can you get high from taking it? In this article, we’ll answer that question once and for all by detailing meloxicam’s chemical makeup, side effects, and everything else you need to know about it.
What is Meloxicam?
Meloxicam is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is used to treat moderate to severe pain, such as arthritis. The medication can be either taken by mouth or applied topically.
The drug relieves pain by reducing the body’s production of prostaglandins and other chemicals that cause inflammation. This helps reduce swelling, relieve pain, and promote healing in the injured area.
As with any NSAID, it is possible for meloxicam to cause stomach upset, nausea, vomiting, and constipation as side effects. When taking meloxicam orally or applying it topically, only small amounts of the medication enter the bloodstream and go on to reach your brain.
Is Meloxicam an Opiate?
Meloxicam is an NSAID that works by blocking the production of certain chemical messengers in the body.
NSAIDs are typically used for short periods of time to relieve pain and reduce inflammation associated with things like arthritis and menstrual cramps. NSAIDs are not generally considered to be addictive, but they can produce withdrawal symptoms if used for extended periods of time.
The FDA has also warned about possible dangers associated with NSAIDs, including potential kidney damage and heart attacks.
NSAIDs should not be combined with other prescription medications or over-the-counter medications without first consulting your doctor because this may cause an adverse reaction. If you think you might have addiction issues, it’s best to speak to your doctor about your options.
How Long Should You Take Meloxicam for Pain Relief?
Doctors typically recommend taking this medication for at least one week, up to a month. However, the length of time you should take it will depend on your condition and the severity of your pain.
For instance, if you are experiencing acute or short-term pain, doctors may prescribe a three-day course of meloxicam for quick relief.
If you’re suffering from chronic pain or have an illness such as arthritis, however, then your doctor may recommend taking the drug for two weeks to a month.
Is Meloxicam Addictive?
Most commonly, meloxicam is prescribed to treat pain and inflammation. For some individuals, meloxicam can be addictive, especially when taken in higher doses than what is recommended by a doctor.
Doctors prescribe meloxicam because it has the ability to reduce swelling and act as an analgesic–helpful in the treatment of arthritis. However, it is possible for individuals to become addicted or dependent on this medication due to its powerful effect on the central nervous system (CNS).
Meloxicam targets cyclooxygenase 1 and 2 enzymes which are responsible for activating prostaglandins that cause inflammation and pain. When the individual takes meloxicam, these enzymes will not function properly, resulting in decreased levels of prostaglandins.
Meloxicam also affects serotonin and norepinephrine–two neurotransmitters that regulate moods, appetite, and sleep patterns.
When there is an imbalance between these two neurotransmitters, it could lead to depression or anxiety; both mood disorders can contribute to addiction if left untreated.
Who Can Take Meloxicam and Who Shouldn’t Take It?
Meloxicam is a prescription medication, so anyone who is prescribed it should take it as directed by their doctor. The drug can be used to treat pain in osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, but should not be taken for more than a few weeks at a time.
Anyone with a history of heart failure or low blood pressure should not take the medication because it can cause problems with those conditions.
What to Do If I Have a Meloxicam Addiction
If you’re addicted to meloxicam, the best thing for you is to talk to your doctor about addiction treatment.
At Maryland Addiction Recovery Center, we can help come up with a plan that’s right for you. We have a 24-hour hotline that can answer any questions you might have and help get the ball rolling on getting you into an addiction treatment program!
If you or someone you know needs help for addiction or co-occurring disorder issues, please give us a call. Maryland Addiction Recovery Center offers the most comprehensive dual diagnosis addiction treatment in the Mid-Atlantic area. If we aren’t the best fit for you or your loved one, we will take the necessary time to work with you to find a treatment center or provider that better fits your needs. Please give us a call at (410) 773-0500 or email our team at info@marylandaddictionrecovery.com. For more information on all of our drug addiction, alcohol addiction and co-occurring disorder services and recovery resources, please visit our web site at www.marylandaddictionrecovery.com.
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