Does Meloxicam Cause Weight Gain?

Meloxicam is a prescription medication used to treat different types of arthritis. [1] While it can be successful in doing so, it can also cause some people to experience side effects. These side effects can include weight gain. If you’ve been prescribed meloxicam or are considering taking it to treat your arthritis, it’s helpful to know how it may impact your weight and to be aware of other potential side effects.

Can Meloxicam Cause Changes in Body Weight?

Meloxicam can cause both increases and decreases in body weight. Clinical studies, however, have shown that this is a rare side effect of taking the medication. [2] Studies show that gaining or losing weight as a result of taking Meloxicam occurs in less than 2% of people taking the drug. [3] 

What is Meloxicam?

Meloxicam is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is prescribed to treat different types of arthritis, such as: [4]

• Osteoarthritis
• Rheumatoid Arthritis
• Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis

It works to treat the inflammation, swelling, stiffness, and joint pain that these conditions can cause. It is available in a tablet, suspension, capsule, or disintegrating tablet form. Meloxicam is sold under the brand name Mobic.

What are the Benefits of Taking Meloxicam?

Meloxicam is effective for relieving the pain and inflammation that accompany many types of arthritis. This medication is unlikely to lead to dependence and is easy to take, with or without food. 

What Can Lead to Weight Changes When Taking Meloxicam?

There are several reasons why you might see changes in your weight while taking meloxicam. Each person’s genetic makeup will lead to variations in the physical response to this medication, but some common weight changes may include the following.

Fluid Retention

People who take meloxicam have a greater chance of retaining fluid. [5]  When people retain fluid, they can see the weight on the scale increase. It is essential to treat fluid retention quickly because if left untreated, it can lead to heart failure..

Appetite Changes

Changes in appetite can occur while taking meloxicam. Some people may have a bigger appetite, while others experience a loss of appetite. Both of these can influence weight. [6]

Changes in Metabolism

Some people who take meloxicam can see metabolic changes that can impact weight. If your metabolism is not working so quickly, you may see weight gain.

Increased Activity Level

While some people may see their metabolism slow down while taking the drug, others may have an increased activity level as their pain decreases. Using more energy means burning more calories. This can result in weight loss.

How to Avoid Weight Gain While Taking Meloxicam

If you’ve noticed that you’re gaining weight while taking meloxicam, there are some things you can do to control it. 

• Managing your portion size and getting enough exercise are key.
• Eat a healthy diet full of fruits, vegetables, and protein.
• Drink water and avoid sugary drinks.
• Avoid processed and sugary foods.

If you’ve implemented these changes into your routine and weight is still an issue while on meloxicam, you’ll want to talk to a healthcare professional.

Common Side Effects of Meloxicam

While weight gain and weight loss are not common side effects of meloxicam, there are several more common side effects you’ll want to be aware of if you’re taking the drug or considering it. [7]

• Diarrhea
• Fever
• Sore Throat
• Flu-Like Symptoms
• Upper Respiratory Tract Infections
• Indigestion
• Drowsiness
• Abdominal Pain
• Back Pain
• Dizziness
• Insomnia
• Gastrointestinal Issues
• Skin Reactions
• Allergic Reactions

These side effects are typically mild. There are more serious side effects you’ll want to watch for if you are taking this drug, such as: [8]

• Low red blood cell level
• Swelling of the face, arms, or legs
• High blood potassium level
• Liver Problems and Liver Failure
• Kidney Problems and Kidney Failure
• Severe Allergic Reaction
• Serious Digestive System Problems

If you think you are experiencing a more serious side effect due to taking meloxicam, contact the prescriber for instructions..

Are There Long-Term Side Effects of Meloxicam?

People taking meloxicam can experience long-term side effects. These can occur any time you’re taking the drug or may not go away even if you stop taking it.

Studies have shown several long-term side effects of taking meloxicam, listed in a boxed warning, the most serious FDA warning a drug can carry, and includes: [9]

These include:

Serious cardiovascular side effects

• People who have taken meloxicam carry a greater risk of developing a heart attack and stroke due to taking the drug.
• Anyone undergoing heart bypass surgery or who has had a recent heart attack may experience cardiovascular side effects
• High cholesterol or tobacco use also increases the risk of cardiovascular side effects..

Serious gastrointestinal side effects like ulcers, holes in your digestive tract, and internal bleeding

• Those who have had a peptic ulcer in the past or who currently have one have an increased risk of serious gastrointestinal side effects.
• People who are actively bleeding in their digestive tract or have had in the past can also be in danger.
• Being 65 and older can play a role, as well as tobacco or alcohol use.

If you fall under any of these categories, you’ll want to talk to your doctor before taking meloxicam. They can determine if the risks are worth taking the drug for its intended use.

Learn More About Meloxicam & Its Side Effects

If you or a loved one is taking meloxicam, and you want to know whether meloxicam causes weight gain or weight loss, help is available. Seek all the answers you need to make an informed decision about your healthcare.