Meloxicam (Mobic) Dosage and Administration for Adults
The recommended dose of meloxicam (Mobic) for adults is 7.5 mg once daily, which can be increased to a maximum of 15 mg once daily if needed for adequate symptom control. 1
Standard Dosing Recommendations
- The initial recommended dose for adults is 7.5 mg once daily 2, 1
- If necessary, the dose may be increased to 15 mg once daily for better symptom control 1, 3
- For elderly patients, the recommended dose is 7.5 mg once daily 1
- Meloxicam should be administered as a single daily dose 1, 4
Dosing Considerations by Condition
- Rheumatoid arthritis: 7.5 mg once daily, may be increased to 15 mg once daily if needed 5, 4
- Osteoarthritis: 7.5 mg once daily is typically effective, with 15 mg once daily as the maximum dose 3, 6
- Ankylosing spondylitis: Similar dosing as for rheumatoid arthritis 1
Administration Guidelines
- Can be taken with or without food 1
- Taking with food may help reduce gastrointestinal side effects 4
- For patients with difficulty swallowing tablets, meloxicam is also available in liquid form 1
Special Populations
- Elderly patients: The recommended dose is 7.5 mg once daily; use the lowest effective dose to minimize adverse effects 2, 1
- Renal impairment: Use with caution and consider lower doses in patients with significant renal dysfunction 2
- Hepatic impairment: Use with caution; no specific dose adjustment recommendations are available 2
Safety Considerations
- Meloxicam carries risks of gastrointestinal adverse events including ulceration and bleeding, though at lower rates than some other NSAIDs 2, 5, 6
- The incidence of gastrointestinal side effects appears dose-dependent, with 7.5 mg having a better safety profile than higher doses 3, 6
- Monitor for cardiovascular complications, especially in patients with pre-existing cardiovascular disease 2
- Avoid use in patients with a history of NSAID-associated upper GI tract bleeding unless combined with protective agents 2
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Exceeding the maximum recommended daily dose of 15 mg 1
- Splitting the daily dose (meloxicam is designed for once-daily dosing) 1, 4
- Failing to adjust dosing in elderly patients (should generally use 7.5 mg daily) 1
- Neglecting to monitor for gastrointestinal and cardiovascular side effects, especially in high-risk patients 2
- Using meloxicam concurrently with other NSAIDs, which increases risk of adverse effects 2