melflam 15mg tablet - Meloxicam (15mg) medicine

Melonex Tablet (meloxicam 15mg): Complete Medicine Guide

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🏭 Cipla Ltd 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Oct 27, 2026
⚠️ Hepatotoxicity Risk ⚠️ Nephrotoxicity Risk 📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: Well-established for osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Oct 27, 2026
🩺
Medically Fact-Checked & Clinically Verified by SaathiMed Clinical Review Board
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

  • Blood in stool or vomit
  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Chest pain or difficulty breathing
  • Severe headache with visual changes
  • Sudden swelling of face, lips, or throat
  • Yellowing of skin or eyes
  • Decreased urine output
  • Unusual weight gain or swelling in legs
  • Severe dizziness or fainting

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is melflam 15mg tablet used for?

This medicine is a prescription NSAID used to treat pain and inflammation in conditions like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. It works by blocking COX-2 enzymes and is taken orally once daily with food. It is not recommended for people with stomach ulcers, severe kidney or liver disease, or heart failure.

  • Generic Name: Meloxicam (15mg)
  • Manufacturer: Cipla Ltd
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 melflam 15mg tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा मेलोक्सिकैम 15 मिलीग्राम की एक प्रिस्क्रिप्शन टैबलेट है, जिसका उपयोग ऑस्टियोआर्थराइटिस और रूमेटॉइड आर्थराइटिस जैसी स्थितियों में जोड़ों के दर्द, सूजन और अकड़न को कम करने के लिए किया जाता है। यह एक नॉनस्टेरॉइडल एंटी-इंफ्लेमेटरी ड्रग (NSAID) है जो शरीर में सूजन पैदा करने वाले रसायनों को कम करके काम करती है। यह दवा दर्द और सूजन को कम करने में मदद करती है, लेकिन आर्थराइटिस का इलाज नहीं करती। इसे डॉक्टर की सलाह के बिना नहीं लेना चाहिए।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में अपच, मतली, पेट दर्द, दस्त, सिरदर्द और चक्कर आना शामिल हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव दुर्लभ हैं, लेकिन पेट के अल्सर या रक्तस्राव, गुर्दे की समस्या, लीवर की क्षति और रक्तचाप में वृद्धि हो सकती है। यदि आपको काला या खूनी मल, खून की उल्टी, गंभीर पेट दर्द, आंखों या त्वचा का पीलापन, या पेशाब में कमी महसूस हो, तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को हमेशा डॉक्टर के बताए अनुसार ही लें। इसे भोजन या दूध के साथ लें ताकि पेट में जलन न हो। इस दवा के साथ शराब न लें क्योंकि इससे पेट में रक्तस्राव का खतरा बढ़ जाता है। अन्य NSAID दवाओं जैसे इबुप्रोफेन, नेप्रोक्सन या एस्पिरिन को डॉक्टर की सलाह के बिना न लें। यदि आपको गुर्दे, लीवर, हृदय या उच्च रक्तचाप की समस्या है, तो डॉक्टर को बताएं। कोई भी नई दवा शुरू करने से पहले अपने डॉक्टर से सलाह लें।

💡 Did You Know? Over 80% of the antiretroviral drugs used globally to combat AIDS are supplied by Indian pharmaceutical companies.

💊 melflam 15mg tablet Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Osteoarthritis","description":"Relieves pain, inflammation" class="semantic-link" title="Medicines for swelling">swelling, and stiffness in joints affected by osteoarthritis, improving mobility and quality of life.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Rheumatoid arthritis","description":"Reduces joint pain, swelling, and inflammation in adults with rheumatoid arthritis.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Juvenile idiopathic arthritis","description":"Used in children above 2 years of age for symptomatic relief of juvenile idiopathic arthritis, under specialist supervision.","evidence":"Established for specific age groups"},{"condition":"Ankylosing spondylitis","description":"Helps relieve pain and stiffness in the spine and other joints associated with ankylosing spondylitis.","evidence":"Moderate"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Acute gout","description":"Sometimes used off-label for short-term relief of acute gout attacks, but other medicines are usually preferred.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Dysmenorrhea","description":"May be used off-label for menstrual pain, but not a first-line choice.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Osteoarthritis

Also treats: Rheumatoid arthritis, Juvenile idiopathic arthritis, Ankylosing spondylitis

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Meloxicam (15mg)
Brand Namemelflam 15mg tablet
ManufacturerCipla Ltd
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassPAIN ANALGESICS
Action ClassNSAID's- Non-Selective COX 1&2 Inhibitors (enolic acids)
Route of AdministrationOral
StorageStore at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Keep away from moisture and direct sunlight. Do not refrigerate unless specified.
Shelf LifeTypically 2 years from the date of manufacture, but check the expiry date on the packaging.
WHO GuidelineNot established from the available information.
ICMR GuidelineNot established from the available information.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Always take this medicine with food or milk to reduce the risk of stomach upset and ulcers.
2
Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration possible to minimize side effects.
3
Monitor your blood pressure regularly, as this medicine can cause fluid retention and increase blood pressure.
4
If you have kidney or liver disease, your doctor may need to adjust your dose or monitor you more closely.
5
Avoid alcohol and other NSAIDs while taking this medicine to prevent gastrointestinal bleeding.
6
Report any signs of bleeding, such as black stools or easy bruising, to your doctor immediately.
7
Do not stop this medicine abruptly without consulting your doctor, especially if you have been taking it for a long time.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

✅
Chronic joint pain
This medicine is commonly prescribed for this.
Likely Use
✅
Joint swelling and stiffness
This medicine helps reduce inflammation and stiffness.
Likely Use
❌
Fever
This medicine is not a primary fever reducer.
Not Primary
❌
Acute migraine
This medicine is not indicated for migraine.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionThis medicine is well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration. Food does not significantly affect the extent of absorption but may delay the time to peak concentration.
DistributionThis medicine is widely distributed in the body and binds extensively to plasma proteins. It penetrates into synovial fluid, which is important for its action in arthritis.
Protein BindingApproximately 99.4% bound to plasma proteins, primarily albumin.
MetabolismThis medicine is extensively metabolized in the liver, mainly by cytochrome P450 enzymes CYP2C9 and CYP3A4, into inactive metabolites.
Half-LifeThe elimination half-life is approximately 15 to 20 hours, allowing for once-daily dosing.
ExcretionThis medicine is excreted primarily in the urine and feces as metabolites, with less than 5% excreted unchanged in urine.
BioavailabilityThe absolute bioavailability is approximately 89% after oral administration.
Onset of ActionPain relief may begin within 30 to 60 minutes after taking a dose, but full anti-inflammatory effects may take several days to weeks of regular use.
Peak Plasma TimePeak plasma concentration is reached in about 4 to 5 hours after oral administration.
Duration of ActionThe analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects last approximately 24 hours, which supports once-daily dosing.

How It Works

This medicine works by selectively inhibiting the cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) enzyme, which is responsible for producing prostaglandins that cause pain, inflammation, and fever. By blocking COX-2, it reduces the levels of these inflammatory chemicals in the body. Unlike non-selective NSAIDs, it has less effect on COX-1, which helps protect the stomach lining, so it may cause fewer stomach problems. However, it still carries some risk of gastrointestinal side effects. The pain relief and anti-inflammatory effects help improve joint function and reduce stiffness in conditions like arthritis.

Mechanism Steps

1
Selective COX-2 inhibition: This medicine binds preferentially to the COX-2 enzyme, blocking the conversion of arachidonic acid to prostaglandin H2.
2
Reduced prostaglandin production: Lower levels of prostaglandins lead to decreased pain, inflammation, and swelling in joints and tissues.
3
Less gastric irritation: Because it spares COX-1 to some extent, there is less disruption of the stomach's protective mucus layer compared to non-selective NSAIDs.
4
Symptom relief: The overall effect is reduced joint pain and stiffness, improving mobility and daily function.

💡 How to Take melflam 15mg tablet

Strength: Meloxicam 15 mg immediate-release tablet

1Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
2Swallow the tablet whole with a full glass of water.
3Take it with food or milk to reduce stomach upset.
4Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet unless your doctor advises.
5Take it at the same time each day to maintain consistent levels.
6Do not take more than the prescribed dose.
7If you miss a dose, follow the missed dose instructions.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe usual adult dose of this medicine for osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis is 7.5 mg to 15 mg taken orally once daily. Your doctor may start you on a lower dose and adjust based on your response and tolerability. The maximum recommended daily dose is 15 mg. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function. Do not exceed the prescribed dose.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information for this specific formulation. Consult a pediatrician for appropriate dosing in children.
Elderly DosageElderly patients (above 65 years) are at higher risk of side effects, especially gastrointestinal bleeding and kidney problems. The lowest effective dose should be used, and kidney function should be monitored. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician.
Renal ImpairmentIn patients with mild to moderate kidney impairment, no dose adjustment is usually needed, but caution is advised. In severe kidney impairment, this medicine is not recommended. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on kidney function.
Hepatic ImpairmentIn patients with mild to moderate liver impairment, no dose adjustment is usually needed. In severe liver impairment, this medicine is not recommended. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on liver function.
Maximum Daily Dose15 mg per day

Dosage Timeline

🌅 Morning ❌ ☀️ Afternoon ❌ 🌆 Evening ❌ 🌙 Night ❌

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With food
Take with meals
Reduces stomach upset.
Alcohol
Avoid
Increases risk of stomach bleeding.
Grapefruit
No known interaction
No significant interaction reported.

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 Less than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
💡 Continue with the regular schedule.
📌 More than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Skip the missed dose.
💡 Do not double dose to catch up.

⚠️ Side Effects of melflam 15mg tablet

✅ Common Side Effects

Indigestion (Common (5-10%))
Take with food or milk. If it persists, consult your doctor.
Nausea (Common (5-10%))
Take with a meal. If nausea continues, talk to your doctor.
Headache (Common (5-10%))
Usually resolves on its own. Consult doctor if severe or persistent.
Dizziness (Common (5-10%))
Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.
Diarrhea (Common (5-10%))
Stay hydrated. If diarrhea is severe or persistent, consult your doctor.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Gastrointestinal bleeding (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you notice black or bloody stools, vomiting blood, or severe abdominal pain.
Kidney problems (Rare (<0.1%))
Report decreased urine output, swelling in legs, or unusual fatigue to your doctor immediately.
Liver damage (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek medical help if you notice yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, or severe abdominal pain.
Heart attack or stroke (Rare (<0.1%))
Call emergency services if you experience chest pain, shortness of breath, or sudden weakness on one side of the body.
Severe allergic reaction (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek emergency care if you develop rash, swelling of face or throat, or difficulty breathing.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Stevens-Johnson syndrome
Seek immediate medical attention if you develop painful rash, blisters, or peeling skin.
Aseptic meningitis
Report severe headache, stiff neck, and fever to your doctor immediately.
Pancreatitis
Seek medical help if you have severe upper abdominal pain radiating to your back.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
Warfarin Major
Aspirin Major
Ibuprofen Major
ACE inhibitors Major
Diuretics Major
Lithium Moderate
Methotrexate Moderate
Corticosteroids Moderate
SSRIs Moderate
Antacids Minor

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Warfarin
  • Aspirin
  • Other NSAIDs
  • ACE inhibitors and ARBs
  • Diuretics

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • Lithium
  • Methotrexate
  • Corticosteroids
  • SSRIs

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine. Alcohol increases the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding, ulcers, and liver problems. It can also worsen dizziness and drowsiness.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Known hypersensitivity to meloxicam or other NSAIDs","History of asthma, urticaria, or allergic reaction after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs","Active or recent gastrointestinal ulcer or bleeding","Severe kidney disease","Severe liver disease","Severe heart failure","Coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery perioperative period","Pregnancy (third trimester)"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["This medicine may increase the risk of serious cardiovascular events. Use with caution in patients with heart disease.","Gastrointestinal bleeding, ulceration, and perforation can occur without warning. Use the lowest effective dose.","Kidney function may worsen, especially in dehydrated patients or those with kidney disease.","Liver function should be monitored during long-term use.","This medicine may cause fluid retention and worsen heart failure or high blood pressure.","Elderly patients are at higher risk of side effects and should be monitored closely.","Do not use this medicine for pain before or after CABG surgery.","Avoid concomitant use with other NSAIDs or alcohol."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

This medicine is not recommended during breastfeeding because it may pass into breast milk and cause harm to the infant. Consult your doctor for alternative options.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose of this medicine may cause nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, dizziness, and in severe cases, gastrointestinal bleeding, kidney failure, or liver damage. If you suspect an overdose, seek emergency medical attention immediately. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic. There is no specific antidote. Activated charcoal may be used if the overdose is recent. Hemodialysis does not effectively remove this medicine.

⏰ Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at the same time to make up for a missed dose.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

Always take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Take it with food or milk to reduce stomach upset. Do not take more than the prescribed dose or take it for longer than recommended. Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine because it increases the risk of stomach bleeding. Do not take other NSAIDs such as ibuprofen, naproxen, or aspirin without consulting your doctor. If you have kidney disease, liver disease, heart failure, or high blood pressure, your doctor may need to monitor you more closely. Tell your doctor about all other medicines you are taking, including blood thinners, blood pressure medicines, and antidepressants. Do not start or stop this medicine without talking to your doctor first.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients are at higher risk of gastrointestinal bleeding, kidney problems, and cardiovascular events. The lowest effective dose should be used, and kidney function should be monitored regularly. Avoid long-term use if possible.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

This medicine is not recommended during pregnancy, especially in the third trimester, as it may harm the fetus. If you are planning pregnancy, consult your doctor to discuss alternative treatments. Use effective contraception while taking this medicine if you are of childbearing age.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

This medicine is contraindicated for pain management in the perioperative period of coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery. For other surgeries, consult your surgeon before taking this medicine, as it may increase bleeding risk.

🦷 Dental Procedures

Inform your dentist that you are taking this medicine before any dental procedure, as it may increase bleeding risk. Your dentist may advise you to stop it temporarily before surgery.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Maintain a healthy weight to reduce joint stress.
🥗
Regular low-impact exercise like swimming or cycling can help improve joint mobility.
😴
Practice good posture and ergonomics to reduce strain on joints.
💧
Include anti-inflammatory foods like omega-3 rich fish, fruits, and vegetables in your diet.
🧘
Get adequate sleep to help your body recover.
🌞
Apply hot or cold packs to painful joints for temporary relief.
🚭
Consider physical therapy to strengthen muscles around affected joints.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

While taking this medicine, you may still exercise, but avoid high-impact activities that strain your joints. Listen to your body and stop if you feel pain. Stay hydrated, especially during exercise, to protect your kidneys. Consult your doctor or physiotherapist for a safe exercise plan.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Include omega-3 rich foods like salmon, flaxseeds, and walnuts.
Reduce intake of processed foods and refined sugars.
Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants.
Stay well hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
Limit alcohol consumption as it can increase stomach bleeding risk.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine may cause dizziness or drowsiness in some people. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you. It should not interfere with most office work, but if your job involves physical strain, discuss with your doctor about modifications. Take regular breaks and maintain good posture.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor. If you experience serious side effects like stomach bleeding, kidney problems, or allergic reactions, seek immediate medical attention. Your doctor may advise stopping the medicine if your symptoms improve or if you develop complications. Always follow your doctor's guidance.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine may increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding, kidney problems, liver damage, and cardiovascular events such as heart attack or stroke. Regular monitoring of kidney and liver function, blood pressure, and blood counts is recommended. Your doctor may periodically reassess the need for continued therapy and consider the lowest effective dose.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Physical therapy

Can complement medicine for chronic pain and improve joint function.

Evidence: Well-established
Weight loss

Reduces stress on weight-bearing joints and improves symptoms.

Evidence: Well-established
Acupuncture

May help relieve chronic pain in some patients.

Evidence: Moderate
Topical NSAIDs

May provide local relief with fewer systemic side effects.

Evidence: Established for localized pain

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

There are no known interactions between this medicine and vaccines. However, if you are scheduled for vaccination, inform your healthcare provider about all medicines you are taking.

📦 Storage Guide

✅ DO

Store at room temperature (15-30°C)

❌ DON'T

Do not refrigerate unless specified

✅ DO

Keep in original container

❌ DON'T

Do not transfer to unmarked containers

✅ DO

Keep away from direct sunlight

❌ DON'T

Do not store in bathroom cabinet

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

When traveling, carry this medicine in its original packaging along with a copy of your prescription. Store it at room temperature and protect it from extreme heat or moisture. If crossing time zones, consult your doctor about adjusting the timing of your dose. Keep it in your carry-on luggage to avoid loss. Check local customs regulations regarding prescription medicines before you travel.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 45-year-old office worker with chronic knee pain
Started this medicine as prescribed for osteoarthritis. Within 2 weeks noticed significant improvement in morning stiffness. Emphasized taking with food to prevent stomach upset.
💡 Lesson: Consistency with prescribed dose and taking with food improves both efficacy and tolerability.
👤 A 60-year-old woman with rheumatoid arthritis
Was prescribed this medicine along with other disease-modifying drugs. She experienced mild indigestion initially, which resolved after taking it with meals. Her joint pain and swelling decreased over a month, allowing her to resume daily walks.
💡 Lesson: Combining this medicine with lifestyle modifications and regular monitoring can lead to better outcomes.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: This medicine may start relieving pain within 30 to 60 minutes, but full anti-inflammatory effects may take several days to weeks of regular use.

Q: Can I take this medicine on an empty stomach?

A: It is best taken with food or milk to reduce the risk of stomach upset.

Q: What should I do if I miss a dose?

A: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double dose.

Q: Is this medicine safe for long-term use?

A: Long-term use may increase the risk of stomach, kidney, and heart problems. It should be used at the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration, with regular monitoring by your doctor.

Q: Can I take this medicine with other pain relievers?

A: Do not take other NSAIDs (like ibuprofen or naproxen) without consulting your doctor, as it increases the risk of side effects.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Can I take this medicine long-term?
  • Will it affect my kidney function?
  • Can I drive after taking this medicine?
  • Does it interact with my blood pressure medicine?
  • What if I miss a dose?
  • Can I drink alcohol while taking this?
  • Is it safe to take with other pain relievers?
  • Does it cause weight gain?

🔄 Substitutes for melflam 15mg tablet

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: This medicine can cure arthritis.
    Fact: This medicine only relieves symptoms; it does not cure arthritis.
  • Myth: This medicine is safe for everyone.
    Fact: It is not safe for people with certain conditions like stomach ulcers, kidney disease, or heart failure.
  • Myth: You can take this medicine on an empty stomach.
    Fact: It should be taken with food to reduce stomach upset.
  • Myth: This medicine is a steroid.
    Fact: This medicine is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), not a steroid.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Meloxicam

Brand Alternatives

  • Melonex
  • Mobic

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"This medicine","class":"Preferential COX-2 inhibitor","half_life":"15-20 hours","dosing":"Once daily","common_side_effects":"Indigestion, nausea, headache"},{"medicine":"Ibuprofen","class":"Non-selective NSAID","half_life":"2-4 hours","dosing":"3-4 times daily","common_side_effects":"Stomach upset, heartburn, dizziness"},{"medicine":"Naproxen","class":"Non-selective NSAID","half_life":"12-17 hours","dosing":"Twice daily","common_side_effects":"Heartburn, nausea, headache"},{"medicine":"Celecoxib","class":"Selective COX-2 inhibitor","half_life":"11 hours","dosing":"Once or twice daily","common_side_effects":"Diarrhea, indigestion, headache"}]

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