Opokan (Meloxicam)

Meloxicam, the active ingredient in Opokan, is a non‑steroidal anti‑inflammatory drug presented as a 15 mg tablet for oral use. It is indicated for the relief of pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and other musculoskeletal conditions in adults.

GNH USA supplies Opokan as a licensed, GDP‑compliant international pharmaceutical supplier serving hospitals, pharmacies and clinics worldwide.

Meloxicam is an NSAID that reduces inflammation and pain in several musculoskeletal disorders. - Osteoarthritis: helps decrease joint pain and improve mobility. - Rheumatoid arthritis: reduces swelling, pain and stiffness in affected joints. - Ankylosing spondylitis: alleviates chronic back pain and stiffness. - Acute musculoskeletal injury: provides short‑term pain relief and inflammation control. - Post‑operative pain: assists in managing pain following orthopedic surgery.

Adverse reactions to meloxicam vary in frequency and severity.

Common Side Effects: - Gastrointestinal discomfort: nausea, dyspepsia or abdominal pain. - Headache: mild to moderate intensity. - Dizziness or vertigo. - Peripheral oedema: mild swelling of the lower limbs. - Elevated liver enzymes: mild, transient increases.

Serious or Rare Side Effects: - Peptic ulcer disease or gastrointestinal bleeding. - Severe skin reactions such as Stevens‑Johnson syndrome. - Hepatotoxicity: significant liver injury. - Renal impairment or acute kidney injury. - Cardiovascular events: increased risk of thrombotic events.

When using Opokan, consider the following safety measures: - Assess renal function: evaluate baseline kidney health before initiating therapy. - Monitor hepatic enzymes: check liver function tests periodically. - Evaluate cardiovascular risk: use cautiously in patients with hypertension or heart disease. - Avoid concurrent use with other NSAIDs or anticoagulants: increases bleeding risk. - Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration needed. - Store at ambient temperature: keep below 25°C, retain in original packaging and protect from moisture.

Meloxicam may interact with several drug classes, requiring attention to avoid adverse outcomes.

Major Interactions (Avoid): - Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin): heightened risk of serious bleeding. - High‑dose aspirin or other NSAIDs: additive gastrointestinal toxicity. - Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs): increased bleeding potential.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely): - ACE inhibitors or ARBs: may reduce renal perfusion and function. - Diuretics: potential for decreased kidney function and electrolyte imbalance. - Lithium: NSAIDs can raise lithium serum levels, risking toxicity.