Meloxidyl for Dogs

If your dog suffers from arthritis or has an injury, your veterinarian may prescribe a medication called Meloxidyl. Meloxidyl is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug that reduces pain, inflammation, and fever. Meloxidyl is available by prescription only and comes in several formulations. Most dogs tolerate Meloxidyl well, but this drug does have some side effects, including vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. Read on to learn more about Meloxidyl and how it can help reduce your dog’s pain and inflammation. 

What is Meloxidyl?

Meloxidyl is a brand name form of Meloxicam, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). Meloxidyl is commonly prescribed for acute or chronic pain and inflammation in dogs. Meloxicam, the generic form of Meloxidyl, is FDA-approved for use in dogs for the control of pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis and it is also used off-label for other conditions. Your veterinarian may prescribe Meloxicam in a tablet, liquid, or injectable form depending on your dog’s needs.  

What Does Meloxidyl for Dogs Look Like?

Meloxidyl is a brand name oral suspension of Meloxicam. It comes in a bottle with two dosing syringes to be used based on your dog’s weight. This product is lightly sweetened to facilitate the administration of the medication to your dog.

Meloxicam is a generic product that comes in many different formulations including tablets, liquids, and injectable medications. Because it is a generic medication, the appearance of the product will vary depending on the manufacturer.

How Does Meloxidyl Work?

Meloxidyl is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug that works by inhibiting the formation of the enzyme cyclooxygenase (COX). COX enzymes are involved in the production of prostaglandins, some of which are produced at sites of injury and are responsible for causing pain and inflammation. By inhibiting COX enzymes, prostaglandin production is reduced, which reduces pain and inflammation.

What Is Meloxidyl Used for in Dogs? 

Meloxidyl is indicated for acute and chronic pain and inflammation in dogs. This may include conditions such as osteoarthritis, soft tissue injury, or postoperative pain, among others. The duration of treatment with Meloxidyl depends on the type, the severity, and the duration of the pain to be addressed. 

How to Give Meloxidyl to Dogs

If your dog is prescribed the tablet or pill form of Meloxicam, it should be given by mouth. If necessary, you can hide the tablet in a tasty treat or in your dog’s food. Be sure to feed your dog a full meal along with the medication, as this will prevent stomach upset.

If your dog is prescribed the liquid form of Meloxicam, use the provided dosing syringe to administer the liquid to your dog by mouth. Always use the provided dosing syringe to ensure your dog receives the correct dosage of medication. As with pills and tablets, be sure to give the medication with a full meal to reduce the risk of upsetting your dog’s stomach.

If your dog is prescribed the injectable form of Meloxicam, this will be administered by your veterinarian in the veterinary clinic. 

Meloxicam is typically given once every 24 hours for pain and inflammation. Always follow your veterinarian’s dosing instructions closely. Do not give extra medication or additional doses, even if you think your dog is still in pain. If your dog is still in pain, consult your veterinarian for further instructions. 

Meloxidyl for Dogs Side Effects 

The most common side effects of Meloxidyl are gastrointestinal effects such as vomiting and diarrhea.  Some gastrointestinal effects can be prevented by administering Meloxidyl with a full meal. Treatment with NSAIDs such as Meloxidyl is also a predisposing factor for developing GI ulceration. In some cases, your veterinarian may prescribe gastroprotectant medications in addition to Meloxidyl to reduce the risk of GI ulcers.

NSAIDs also inhibit platelet function, which may cause increased bleeding times. However, studies have not demonstrated a clinically significant relationship between NSAID use and bleeding disorders in dogs.

Reactions with Other Drugs and Medications

Meloxidyl may interact with the following medications:

• Aminoglycosides
• Phenobarbital
• Anticoagulants
• Sulfonylureas 
• Amoxicillin-clavulanic acid
• Isoniazid
• ACE inhibitors 
• Cimetidine
• Cisplatin
• Cyclosporine 
• Corticosteroids
• Pentosan
• SSRIs
• Furosemide
• Methotrexate
• Clopidogrel 
• Aspirin
• Other NSAIDs 

Meloxidyl Dosage for Dogs

The dosage of Meloxidyl for dogs varies depending on your dog’s weight. Your veterinarian will prescribe a dose that is appropriate for your dog’s current weight and health status. Be sure to follow your veterinarian’s instructions closely. Do not give extra medication or additional doses. If you feel your dog is in pain or needs additional medication, contact your veterinarian for further instructions. 

What If My Dog Misses a Dose of Meloxidyl 

If your dog misses a dose of Meloxidyl, give it as soon as you remember, as long as it is not too close to the next dose. Do not double up on doses to make up for a missed dose. If necessary, simply skip the missed dose and continue on with the next dose as scheduled. 

Cost of Meloxidyl for Dogs 

The cost of Meloxidyl will vary depending on your dog’s size, the duration of treatment, and the formulation prescribed. Generic products will also cost less than brand names. In general, pet owners should expect to spend $25-$75 on Meloxidyl for dogs.

Meloxidyl Storage Instructions

Meloxidyl should be stored at a controlled room temperature of 59-77 degrees Fahrenheit and should be protected from moisture.