NSAID (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug) / Painkiller
Last reviewed June 2026
Who is this for?
Meloxicam is a strong anti-inflammatory painkiller that works by reducing substances in your body that cause pain, swelling, and inflammation. It belongs to a group of drugs called NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs).
Inhibits cyclooxygenase (COX-1 and COX-2) enzymes, reducing prostaglandin production and thereby decreasing inflammation, pain, and stiffness in affected joints and tissues. Demonstrates preferential inhibition of COX-2, allowing greater anti-inflammatory efficacy with relatively lower gastrointestinal effects compared to non-selective NSAIDs.
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
Take one tablet once a day, usually 7.5 mg to start. Your doctor may increase it to 15 mg once daily if needed. Take it with food or after eating to protect your stomach. Swallow the tablet with a full glass of water. Try to take it at the same time every day.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule. Do not take two tablets at once to make up for it.
Do not use meloxicam for a long time without your doctor's supervision — long-term use can damage your kidneys and stomach. Buy only from licensed pharmacies, not from roadside vendors or open markets, to make sure you get genuine products like Dabic or Melocap. Do not combine it with other painkillers on your own — this is a common mistake that can cause serious stomach bleeding.
Avoid taking meloxicam with other painkillers like ibuprofen or diclofenac as this increases the risk of stomach bleeding. Be careful if you are taking blood pressure drugs (like lisinopril or amlodipine) as meloxicam can reduce their effect. Avoid alcohol while using this drug as it increases your chance of stomach problems and bleeding.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Meloxicam with your other drugs?
Meloxicam is not safe during pregnancy, especially in the last three months, and should be avoided while breastfeeding — talk to your doctor before using it if you are pregnant or nursing.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat — Nigerian weather can be very hot, so avoid leaving it in your car or near windows. Keep it in its original pack and away from children.
For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under — especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
Tap a brand for packaging, NAFDAC details and authenticity check
Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.
Dispensing Meloxicam?
Clinical tools built for Nigerian pharmacists — launching soon.