Should I Take Meloxicam at Night or in the Morning for Best Results?

Meloxicam, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), is prescribed to alleviate joint pain, swelling, and stiffness. Continue reading to discover whether I should take Meloxicam at night or in the morning.

Meloxicam is a once-daily NSAID that can be taken orally at any time. 

For best results, take it consistently with food to prevent stomach issues. 

Follow your doctor’s prescription, using the lowest effective dose for the shortest necessary period.

Meloxicam treats pain from osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and juvenile rheumatoid arthritis.

It’s available as generic tablets, capsules, and liquid suspension, as well as the brand name Mobic. Anjeso, an intravenous solution, is used for pain treatment. 

Generic meloxicam tablets are cost-effective in the US.

What Are the Side Effects of Meloxicam?

Meloxicam, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, comes with a FDA-issued black box warning due to potential serious side effects. Common adverse effects include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Dizziness
• Chills
• Stomach pain
• Chest pain
• Constipation
• Gas
• Diarrhea
• Heartburn or indigestion
• Upper respiratory tract infections (URTI)
• Flu-like symptoms (Influenza)

Like other NSAIDs, prolonged use of Meloxicam can lead to serious health risks. If you’re wondering whether to take Meloxicam in the morning or at night, it’s advisable to consult your doctor, as its usage carries several risks and complications.

Potential severe adverse effects encompass:

• Low red blood cell count (anemia)
• Aggravation of high blood pressure
• Liver problems
• Kidney problems
• Allergic reactions, including swelling of the lips, tongue, and face
• Skin reactions, such as redness and rashes
• Heart failure
• Increased risk of heart attack or stroke with higher doses
• Elevated risk of bleeding or ulcers in the stomach, esophagus, or intestines
• If you experience any complications, discontinue Meloxicam and contact your doctor 

How to use Meloxicam Medication?

Meloxicam medication is available in various forms, and the appropriate administration for each form is detailed below:

Tablet or Capsule Form of Meloxicam:

Take the prescribed dose by placing the tablet or capsule in your mouth and swallowing it with water, typically once a day as instructed by your doctor.

Do not take an additional dose unless specifically advised by your doctor.

Always use a full glass of water (8 ounces/240 milliliters) when taking the medication.

After taking the tablet, refrain from lying down for at least 10-20 minutes to ensure proper absorption.

Liquid Form of Meloxicam

Before each dose of liquid Meloxicam, gently shake the container.

To ensure accurate dosing, use an appropriate measuring device or spoon, following your doctor’s recommendations.

Disintegrating Form of Meloxicam Tablet

For the disintegrating tablet, refrain from removing it from the packaging until you are ready to take it.

Use dry hands to peel the back of the medication foil to carefully extract the tablet. Avoid pushing the tablet against the foil, as it can damage the tablet and hinder oral intake.

This tablet dissolves in the mouth, allowing you to let it melt automatically. After dissolution, you can choose to swallow the contents, drink water later, or consume any other liquid.

Please also consider reading about foods to avoid while taking metformin for comprehensive guidance.

Morning or Night: Best Time of day to take Meloxicam

Opting for Morning Dosage:

Taking meloxicam in the morning can be advantageous for individuals seeking consistent pain relief throughout the day. When administered in the morning, meloxicam can reach peak concentration in the bloodstream by midday or early afternoon, offering relief during peak pain and inflammation periods. Notably, the effects of meloxicam can extend up to 24 hours, ensuring round-the-clock pain relief and comfort.

Benefits of Morning Dosage:

Morning dosing of meloxicam brings several benefits, including improved daytime functionality. By addressing pain and inflammation early in the day, individuals can engage in daily activities with reduced discomfort and stiffness, resulting in enhanced productivity and overall well-being. Moreover, taking meloxicam in the morning can lead to better pain management during activities that may exacerbate pain, such as exercise or physical therapy.

Potential Drawbacks of Morning Dosage:

While morning dosing of meloxicam offers numerous advantages, it’s crucial to consider potential drawbacks. Some individuals may be susceptible to experiencing adverse effects, particularly gastrointestinal discomfort, when taking meloxicam on an empty stomach. In such cases, taking meloxicam with food is advisable to mitigate potential side effects. Additionally, individuals who require nighttime pain relief or encounter morning stiffness may find morning dosing insufficient for addressing these symptoms.

Choosing Nighttime Dosage:

For those dealing with nighttime pain or morning stiffness, taking meloxicam at night may be a more suitable option. By ingesting meloxicam before bedtime, the medication can provide relief throughout the night, alleviating pain that often occurs during sleep or upon waking in the morning. This can lead to enhanced sleep quality and reduced morning stiffness.

Advantages of Nighttime Dosage:

Taking meloxicam at night can offer significant advantages, particularly in alleviating nighttime pain and improving sleep quality. Nighttime pain can disrupt sleep patterns, leading to reduced overall sleep quality. When taken at night, meloxicam may provide enhanced pain relief, resulting in a more restful and rejuvenating sleep. Furthermore, for individuals experiencing morning stiffness, nighttime dosing can help reduce stiffness and enhance mobility upon waking in the morning.

Possible Disadvantages of Nighttime Dosage:

While nighttime dosing of meloxicam has its benefits, it’s essential to consider potential disadvantages. Taking meloxicam before bed may not adequately address daytime pain, especially for those with continuous or intermittent pain throughout the day. Additionally, some individuals may experience drowsiness or disruptions in their sleep patterns when taking meloxicam at night. If such side effects occur, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare provider to explore alternative dosing options.