As the world becomes more aware of the dangers surrounding opioid use and the possibility of addiction, people look for safer alternatives such as Meloxicam to treat pain, but without the risk of severe withdrawal symptoms. However, some alternatives to opioids can still cause people to develop an addiction. Find out if Meloxicam can cause an addiction and what the possible side effects may be.
What is Meloxicam?
Meloxicam belongs to the same family of drugs as Ibuprofen or Indomethacin. These are known as Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDs. Meloxicam is a fairly new drug on the market only made readily available in the United States in 2000. This classification of drugs is used strictly for pain relief by blocking the production of enzymes in the body that create prostaglandins, a chemical that contributes to inflammation around the joints. The drug was actually developed as an alternative to opioid-based painkillers such as Percocet or Fentanyl, in an attempt to create a drug that could help with pain management that would not cause dependency.
Meloxicam is sold under the brand name Mobic. It can be taken in capsule, tablet, or liquid forms, and an average daily dose of the drug would be 5-7.5 mg. It is typically used for the management of pain in the following:
- Rheumatoid arthritis,
- Osteoarthritis
- Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis
Studies have also shown that it can be effective for pain management after postoperative procedures where an opioid-based medication would typically be prescribed, such as hernia repair surgery.
Is Meloxicam Addictive?
Meloxicam is a non-opioid painkiller that is used to help relieve pain for affiliations like rheumatoid arthritis. Its chemical compound is vastly different than other prescription painkillers on the market and as such the chances of Meloxicam becoming addictive is very slim. Although, as with any drug, there is a possibility, however small, of developing and addiction to Meloxicam.
At Ambrosia Treatment Center, we combine the efforts of motivational enhanced therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy to help people move into a path of abstinence at all of our three locations throughout Florida and one in Pennsylvania. Our motivational enhanced therapy treatment helps recovering individuals contrast the drug with the benefits of achieving and maintaining recovery. While our cognitive behavioral therapy helps individuals learn skills to assist them in dealing with addiction-related situations as they arise. We offer a holistic and supportive approach within our nationally-recognized rehab program that focuses on each one of our client’s individual needs.
When you or a loved one are struggling with a drug dependency to Meloxicam or any other prescription painkiller there is help. You don’t need to feel ashamed or feel as though you have to do it on your own. Ambrosia Treatment Center’s addiction specialists are well qualified to help anyone suffering from an addiction to any type of controlled substance. Our state-of-the-art treatment facilities provide a serene environment perfect for drug addiction rehabilitation and recovery.
Meloxicam Side Effects
Although not as common as with other drugs, there are still potential side effects to watch for when using a drug like Meloxicam.
- Stomach upset or diarrhea
- Nausea
- Dizziness or severe headaches
- Stiff neck
- Extreme tiredness
- Unusual weight changes
- Mood swings
- Elevated blood pressure
- Changes to your urine
- Difficulty breathing
Meloxicam is considered a somewhat safe prescription drug. However, it does have to ability to cause an adverse reaction in people that already have the following health conditions,
- Kidney problems
- Asthma
- Heart Disease
It is important to speak with a doctor if you are taking Meloxicam and experience any of the adverse effects listed above, especially if you have any of the previously mentioned health conditions.
It is also possible to overdose on Meloxicam. Because Meloxicam and other NSAIDs do not produce the same euphoric effects that other painkillers do, a user of this drug may take more than the recommended dosage in an attempt to achieve a high that will not come. If this is the case it is imperative they seek medical attention right away or call the Poison Helpline at 1-800-222-1222 for more instruction.
How Can You Tell if You Are Addicted to Meloxicam?
The probability of addiction to Meloxicam is relatively low. However, it is important to watch for signs that might display whether a loved one might be dealing with addiction to Meloxicam such as:
- Needing a larger dose to feel the drug’s effects
- Cravings for and obsessive thoughts about the drug
- Continued usage even after the physical issue is dealt with
- Continued use at the objection of friends and family
- Feelings of isolation and hiding usage from friends and family
Meloxicam Addiction Treatment Center Near You
Ambrosia Treatment Center provides advanced addiction recovery treatment for those who have developed an addiction to Meloxicam. Get your health, future, and family back with top-rated compassionate care at one of our Drug Alcohol Rehab Centers. Recover at our therapeutic, sun-filled, palm tree-lined, addiction rehabilitation centers. Learn about our admissions process and give our team a call at (561) 467-7547 to begin the treatment process today.
