Metacam Oral Susp

Meloxicam (COX-2 preferential NSAID) oral suspension for pain and inflammation in dogs, cats, and horses; osteoarthritis and perioperative pain management. Meloxicam oral suspension (equine/canine brand). Mechanism: COX-2 preferential NSAID — selective reduction of inflammatory prostaglandins with relative preservation of COX-1 prostaglandins. Oxicam class. Good oral bioavailability; long half-life allows once-daily administration. Key information Meloxicam oral suspension — see meloxicam entry. Cats: very low doses only. Administer with food.

Oral liquid (horses or small animals): Shake well before each use. well. Measure carefully. Mix into small amount of food or administer via oral syringe. Administer with food to reduce GI adverse effects. Store at room temperature; protect from light. If a dose is missed Administer as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume the normal schedule. Never double up doses to make up for a missed one.

GI: vomiting, diarrhea, anorexia, melena, gastric ulceration (COX-2 preferential but GI effects still possible). Renal: azotemia with dehydration or pre-existing CKD. Hepatotoxicity (rare — monitor liver enzymes). Platelet inhibition (less than non-selective NSAIDs). Do not combine with other NSAIDs or corticosteroids.

For animals Monitor for GI ulceration; use with caution in animals with GI disease. Monitor renal function, hydration status, and urine output. Monitor liver enzymes with prolonged use. Do not use concurrently with other NSAIDs or corticosteroids. Cats: FDA-approved only for single SC injection perioperatively; prolonged oral use in cats is extra-label — use with caution and at low doses. Use with caution in pregnant animals. Baseline blood work before prolonged use. For people handling this medication Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. Avoid contact with eyes; if contact occurs, flush with water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention. Keep out of reach of children. If accidental ingestion occurs, contact Poison Control (1-800-222-1222). NSAID — Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. after handling. Keep out of reach of children. Keep out of reach of children. Pregnant women and women of childbearing age should avoid contact. (NSAIDs not recommended in late human pregnancy).

Contact your veterinarian immediately. NSAID overdose causes GI ulceration, kidney injury, and in cats, serious toxicity. Supportive care required.