Melcam

Melcam Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Melcam is a brand name. Its generic name is Meloxicam.

Melcam

Melcam is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to treat pain and inflammation of the joints and muscles. It may also be used to treat other conditions as determined by your doctor.

Uses For Melcam

Melcam is used to reduce pain, swelling, and joint stiffness caused by osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. It is also used to relieve other types of short-term pain including menstrual cramps and pain due to injury. Melcam is also used to reduce the symptoms of migraine pain and certain other types of chronic pain.

Mechanism of Action

Melcam belongs to a class of drugs called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). It works by blocking the production of certain chemicals in the body that are responsible for pain and inflammation. This effect reduces swelling and pain.

How Long Does It Take To Work?

Melcam typically begins to provide relief from pain and inflammation within 24-48 hours of taking it. However, complete relief may take up to two weeks or longer.

Absorption

Melcam is quickly and nearly completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. It has an absolute bioavailability of approximately 90%.

Route of Elimination

Melcam is metabolized in the liver and mostly eliminated unchanged in the urine. Some of it may also be eliminated through the bile.

Dosage

Melcam is available in oral tablets in doses of 7.5 mg, 15 mg, or 20 mg. It is also available in oral suspesion form in doses of 0.5 mg/ml, 1 mg/ml, and 1.5 mg/ml. The usual adult dosage for pain relief is 7.5-15 mg once daily.

Administration

Melcam can be taken with or without food. The suspension should be administered with food or milk.

Side Effect

Common side effects of Melcam include upset stomach, nausea, diarrhea, headache, and dizziness. Other side effects may include rash, itching, swelling, edema, and decreased urination. Serious side effects include difficulty breathing, chest pain, joint pain, and dark colored urine.

Toxicity

The most serious toxicity associated with Melcam is kidney failure. Long-term use or excessive doses of Melcam can cause kidney failure. Other serious adverse effects include anemia, bleeding, and increased risk of heart attack and stroke.

Precaution

Before taking Melcam, tell your doctor if you have any type of bleeding or clotting disorder, kidney or liver disease, high blood pressure, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Also tell your doctor if you are taking any other medications, including over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, or natural remedies.

Interaction

Melcam can interact with other medications, including prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal products. It can also interact with certain foods and drinks, including alcohol. Tell your doctor about all medications and supplements you are taking.

Disease Interaction

Melcam may interact with diseases such as asthma, lupus, and congestive heart failure. It may also interact with conditions such as history of stroke, liver disease, or stomach or intestinal ulcers.

Drug Interaction

Melcam may interact with other drugs, such as warfarin, cyclosporine, aspirin, anticoagulants, and diuretics. It can also interact with certain antibiotics, antidepressants, and NSAIDs. Tell your doctor about all drugs you are taking.

Food Interactions

Melcam may interact with certain foods. Avoid foods high in sodium and potassium, such as processed and canned foods, processed meats, and dairy products. Avoid alcohol, as it can increase the risk of stomach bleeding.

Pregnancy Use

Melcam is not recommended for use during pregnancy unless clearly necessary. If you are pregnant, discuss the risks and benefits of taking Melcam with your doctor.

Lactation Use

It is not known if Melcam passes into breast milk. If you are breastfeeding, discuss the risks and benefits of taking Melcam with your doctor.

Acute Overdose

Common symptoms of an acute overdose include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. More severe symptoms include dizziness, drowsiness, confusion, seizures, and shock.

Contraindication

Melcam should not be used in certain patients, such as those with bleeding disorders, active stomach or intestinal ulcers, or those who have taken certain medications within the last two weeks. Also, these medications should not be used in children and pregnant or breastfeeding women.

Use Direction

Take Melcam exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take it in larger amounts or for longer than recommended. Also, be sure to tell your doctor if you are taking any other medication or supplements.

Storage Condition

Store Melcam at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep the medicine in a closed container. Do not freeze the suspension.

Volume of Distribution

The volume of distribution is not known for Melcam.

Half Life

The half-life of Melcam is approximately 18-24 hours.

Clearance

The clearance of Melcam is not known.

Here you find in details version of Melcam

Some Frequently Asked Questions About Melcam

What is Melcam?

Melcam is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to relieve symptoms of arthritis such as inflammation, stiffness, and joint pain.

How does Melcam work?

Melcam works by blocking the body’s production of substances that cause inflammation. This reduces inflammation, pain, and stiffness in the arthritic joints.

What are the side effects of Melcam?

Common side effects of Melcam include nausea, diarrhoea, constipation, headache, dizziness, stomach upset, abdominal pain, and gas. Other serious side effects include kidney failure, liver damage, increased risk of bleeding, and increased risk for heart attack and stroke.

Is Melcam available over-the-counter?

No, Melcam is not available over-the-counter. You must get a prescription from your doctor in order to purchase Melcam.

How long does it take for Melcam to start working?

It usually takes a few days for Melcam to start working, but it may take weeks for the full effects to be seen.

Can I take Melcam if I have a history of heart problems?

No, you should not take Melcam if you have or have had heart problems. Talk to your doctor to get further advice.

Can I take Melcam while pregnant?

No, you should not take Melcam while pregnant as it could harm the unborn baby. Talk to your doctor to get further advice.

Can I drink alcohol while taking Melcam?

No, you should not drink alcohol while taking Melcam as it could increase the risk of side effects such as stomach bleeding and liver damage.

How long can I take Melcam for?

Melcam should not be taken for more than 6 weeks without a break. Talk to your doctor if you need to take it for longer.

Can I take Melcam with other medications?

You should not take Melcam with any other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Talk to your doctor if you are unsure about taking other medications along with Melcam.

Can I take Melcam if I am allergic to aspirin?

Yes, you can take Melcam if you are allergic to aspirin as they are different medications. However, you should talk to your doctor if you are unsure.

How much Melcam should I take?

The dosage of Melcam will depend on your condition and the severity of your symptoms. Talk to your doctor for advice on the amount of Melcam that is right for you.

Can Melcam be used to treat pain other than arthritis?

Yes, Melcam may be used to treat other forms of pain, such as pain caused by injury or inflammation. Talk to your doctor if you have any other forms of pain.

Can Melcam be taken with food?

Yes, Melcam can be taken with or without food. It is recommended that it is taken with a full glass of water to prevent stomach upset.

Can Melcam be taken long-term?

No, Melcam should not be taken long-term without taking a break. Talk to your doctor to discuss the best treatment plan for your condition.

Can Melcam cause depression?

In some cases, Melcam can cause depression, although it is rare. Talk to your doctor if you experience any mood changes while taking Melcam.

Is Melcam addictive?

No, Melcam is not addictive. It does not cause physical or psychological dependence.

Can Melcam cause kidney or liver damage?

Yes, Melcam can cause kidney and liver damage in some cases. Talk to your doctor if you experience any symptoms of kidney or liver problems while taking Melcam.

Can Melcam cause weight gain?

No, Melcam does not usually cause weight gain. If you experience any weight gain while taking Melcam, talk to your doctor.

How can I reduce the side effects of Melcam?

The best way to reduce the side effects of Melcam is to take the lowest possible dose and to take the medication for the shortest period of time. Talk to your doctor if you are concerned about the side effects of Melcam.

How should Melcam be stored?

Melcam should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct light and out of reach of children. Talk to your pharmacist for more information on the storage of Melcam.

Can Melcam affect my cholesterol levels?

Yes, Melcam can increase cholesterol levels. If you have high cholesterol levels, talk to your doctor about alternatives to Melcam.

Can Melcam be taken for headaches or migraines?

No, Melcam should not be taken for headaches or migraines. Talk to your doctor for advice on alternative treatments.

Can Melcam be used to treat fever?

No, Melcam should not be used to treat fever. Talk to your doctor for advice on alternative treatments.

Can I take Melcam if I have high blood pressure?

Yes, you can take Melcam if you have high blood pressure, but it may increase your blood pressure. Talk to your doctor if you are concerned about your blood pressure while taking Melcam.

Can I take Melcam if I am taking other medications?

You should not take Melcam if you are taking other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Talk to your doctor if you are unsure about taking other medications along with Melcam.

Can Melcam be used to treat gout?

Yes, Melcam can be used to treat gout. Talk to your doctor for advice on the best treatment plan for your condition.

What is the difference between Melcam and ibuprofen?

The main difference between Melcam and ibuprofen is that Melcam is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) and ibuprofen is an over-the-counter pain reliever. Talk to your doctor to determine which medication is right for you.

Does Melcam help with swelling or inflammation?

Yes, Melcam can help relieve swelling or inflammation caused by arthritis. Talk to your doctor for advice on the best treatment plan for your condition.

Can Melcam be taken by children?

No, Melcam is not recommended for use in children. Talk to your doctor for advice on alternative treatments.

Does Melcam work immediately?

No, Melcam usually takes a few days to start working, although it may take weeks for the full effects to be seen. Talk to your doctor for advice on the best treatment plan for your condition.

Can Melcam be used for menstrual pain?

No, Melcam should not be used for menstrual pain. Talk to your doctor for advice on alternative treatments.

Can Melcam cause drowsiness?

Yes, Melcam can cause drowsiness in some cases. If you experience drowsiness while taking Melcam, talk to your doctor.

Can I take Melcam while breastfeeding?

No, you should not take Melcam while breastfeeding as it could pass into your breast milk and harm your baby. Talk to your doctor for advice on alternative treatments.

Can Melcam be taken with paracetamol?

Yes, Melcam can be taken with paracetamol. However, you should talk to your doctor if you are unsure.

Is Melcam safe for the elderly?

Yes, Melcam is safe for the elderly when taken as prescribed by a doctor. Talk to your doctor for advice on the best treatment plan for your condition.

Can Melcam cause constipation?

Yes, Melcam can cause constipation in some cases. Talk to your doctor if you experience any constipation while taking Melcam.

Can Melcam cause dizziness?

Yes, Melcam can cause dizziness in some cases. Talk to your doctor if you experience any dizziness while taking Melcam.

Can I take Melcam if I have diabetes?

Yes, you can take Melcam if you have diabetes, but it may increase your blood sugar levels. Talk to your doctor if you are concerned about your blood sugar levels while taking Melcam.

Does Melcam have any interactions with other medications?

Yes, Melcam can interact with certain medications, including some over-the-counter drugs. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist for advice on any interactions with Melcam.