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What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking meloxicam (Mobic)?

Do not use meloxicam just before or after heart bypass surgery (coronary artery bypass graft, or CABG).

This medicine may cause life-threatening heart or circulation problems such as heart attack or stroke, especially if you use it long term.

This medicine may also cause serious effects on the stomach or intestines, including bleeding or perforation (forming of a hole). These conditions can be fatal and can occur without warning while you are taking meloxicam, especially in older adults.

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to meloxicam, or if you have a history of allergic reaction to aspirin or other NSAIDs.

To make sure you can safely take meloxicam, tell your doctor if you have any of these other conditions:

• a history of heart attack, stroke, or blood clot;
• heart disease, congestive heart failure, high blood pressure;
• a history of stomach ulcers or bleeding;
• liver or kidney disease,
• a seizure disorder such as epilepsy;
• asthma;
• polyps in your nose; or
• if you smoke.

FDA pregnancy category D. Taking meloxicam during the last 3 months of pregnancy may harm the unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using meloxicam.

Meloxicam can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Do not give this medicine to a child younger than 2 years old without the advice of a doctor.

How should I take meloxicam (Mobic)?

Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

The maximum amount of meloxicam for adults is 15 milligrams (mg) per day. Know the amount of meloxicam in the specific product you are taking.

If you use meloxicam long-term, your blood will need to be tested often. Visit your doctor regularly.

This medication can cause you to have unusual results with certain medical tests. Tell any doctor who treats you that you are using meloxicam.

Store at room temperature, away from moisture, heat, and light.

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