From the Research
Meloxicam is not specifically contraindicated in patients with glaucoma, and patients with glaucoma can generally take meloxicam without special precautions related to their eye condition. Meloxicam is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that works by inhibiting cyclooxygenase enzymes to reduce inflammation and pain, but it does not have significant effects on intraocular pressure that would worsen glaucoma 1. The main contraindications for meloxicam include hypersensitivity to the medication, history of asthma or urticaria with aspirin or other NSAIDs, active gastrointestinal bleeding, severe renal impairment, and use during the perioperative period of coronary artery bypass graft surgery.
Key Considerations
- Patients should still inform their healthcare provider about their glaucoma diagnosis when considering meloxicam therapy, as individual medical histories may vary.
- Some other medications, particularly corticosteroids and anticholinergics, do have contraindications or require caution in glaucoma patients due to their potential to increase intraocular pressure 2, 3.
- The current management of glaucoma focuses on lowering intraocular pressure, and various treatments are available, including eye drops, oral medications, laser therapy, and surgery 4, 5.
- Recent studies have shown that topical NSAIDs may enhance the IOP lowering effect of topical prostaglandin analogs in glaucoma patients 1.
Recommendations
- Patients with glaucoma should consult their healthcare provider before taking meloxicam to discuss potential interactions and contraindications.
- Healthcare providers should monitor patients with glaucoma who are taking meloxicam for any changes in intraocular pressure or vision.
- Meloxicam should be used with caution in patients with glaucoma, and alternative treatments should be considered if necessary.