Description
Meloxicam is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory compound of the oxicam group which acts by inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis. Meloxicam exerts anti-inflammatory, anti-exudative, analgesic and antipyretic effects. It inhibits leukocyte infiltration into the inflamed tissue and prevents bone cartilage destruction. To a minor extent it also inhibits collagen-induced thrombocyte aggregation.
Indications
Alleviation of inflammation and pain in both acute and chronic musculo-skeletal disorders.
Directions for Use
Contraindicated for use in bitches in the last third of pregnancy or during lactation. Contraindicated for use in dogs less than 6 weeks of age or less than 4kg bodyweight.
Contraindicated in animals suffering from gastrointestinal disorders such as irritation and haemorrhage, impaired hepatic, cardiac or renal function and haemorrhagic disorders or individual hypersensitivity to the product.
Dosage
The initial treatment is a single oral dose, on the first day, of 0.2mg meloxicam/kg b.w. This is to be followed by the once daily maintenance dose (at 24 hour intervals) of 0.1mg meloxicam/kg b.w. Each chewable tablet contains either 1mg or 2.5mg meloxicam, which corresponds to the daily maintenance dose for a 10kg or 25kg dog, respectively. Each chewable tablet can be halved for accurate dosing according to the individual bodyweight of the animal and may be administered with or without food.
Dose scheme for the maintenance dose:
| Bodyweight (kg) | Number of chewable tablets | mg/kg | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1mg | 2.5mg | ||
| 4.0–7.0 | 0.5 | 0.13–0.1 | |
| 7.1–10.0 | 1 | 0.14–0.1 | |
| 10.1–15.0 | 1.5 | 0.15–0.1 | |
| 15.1–20.0 | 2 | 0.13–0.1 | |
| 20.1–25.0 | 1 | 0.12–0.1 | |
| 25.1–35.0 | 1.5 | 0.15–0.1 | |
| 35.1–50.0 | 2 | 0.14–0.1 | |
A clinical response is normally seen within 3-4 days. If no improvement after 10 days of treatment, discontinue use and consult your veterinarian.
Precautions
Rheumocam should not be administered concurrently with steroidal or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, aminoglycoside antibiotics or anti-coagulant agents.
Pre-treatment with anti-inflammatory drugs may result in additional or increased adverse effects and accordingly a treatment-free period with such drugs should be observed for at least 24 hours before commencement with Rheumocam. The treatment-free period, however, should take into account the pharmacokinetic properties of the drugs used previously.
Avoid use in dehydrated, hypovolaemic or hypotensive animals as there is potential risk of increased renal toxicity.
Side Effects
Typical adverse reactions of NSAIDs may occur (particularly within the first 5-14 days of treatment). These may include loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhoea, faecal occult blood and lethargy. In very rare cases, haemorrhagic diarrhoea, haematemesis, gastrointestinal ulceration and elevated liver enzymes have been reported. These side effects are in most cases transient and disappear following termination of treatment but in rare cases may be serious. If adverse reactions occur, treatment should be discontinued and the advice of a veterinarian should be sought.
Toxicity/Overdose/Antidote
In case of overdosing, symptomatic treatment should be initiated.
Disposal
Dispose of the empty container by wrapping in paper and putting in garbage.
Storage
Store below 30°C (room temperature).
Presentation
1mg – 100 tablets per box
2.5mg – 100 tablets per box
Please Note:
WE ARE REQUIRED TO RECEIVE YOUR ORIGINAL PRESCRIPTION PRIOR TO SHIPPING THIS PRODUCT. (Click this link to read the prescription information section)
Use only as directed by your Veterinarian
Please read the packet insert and contact your Veterinarian if you think your pet may be experiencing side-effects.
Active Constituents:
Each tablet contains 2.5mg meloxicam.
Registered pursuant to the ACVM Act 1997 No. A
