THE USE OF MELOXICAM

Dr Abbie Tipler, a surgeon at Veterinary Specialist Services, explains how to use the drug meloxicam. Meloxicam is a commonly used drug, however, it is important to use it as prescribed and to monitor for any side effects. This video explains how to use the drug safely, how to draw up the correct dose, and what side effects to watch out for. It covers the different generics and available formulations and notes the different syringe types and why to keep the same syringe with the bottle. 

Meloxicam can be dangerous if mishandled.

Follow the following guidelines when administering Meloxicam to your pet.

Occasionally, your veterinary surgeon will prescribe a 3kg dose even if your pet is four or five kilograms in weight. 

Even if the packaging recommends a larger dose, you should always follow your veterinarian's advice when administering your pet's medications.

One of the reasons Meloxicam can be considered dangerous is how the drug is produced and packaged. 

Different producers package them in different sizes and supply different syringes, creating confusion with prescriptions and treatments. For example, some bottles are measured in kilograms and others in millilitres. 

Meloxicam should never be administered to pets on an empty stomach. To administer Meloxicam to a pet, you can either:

• Administer the medication orally after their meal

• Mix it with their food

It’s crucial not to be tempted to administer your pet a second dose of Meloxicam per day, even if your pet seems to be in pain.

If your pet is in pain, you should instead call your vet for advice and treatment options.

If you start to see side effects to the use of Meloxicam such as vomiting, diarrhoea, or if your pet isn’t eating, stop administering the medication and give your vet a call.

They may advise changing medications or lowering the dosage.

Click here to watch other videos in the canine care series from VSS.