Артрозан

Quick links to important sections

Артрозан

Selected form

Medically reviewed

Rosario Oropesa

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Артрозан

What is Артрозан? Quick Facts

Property Description
Active ingredient Meloxicam
Form Tablet and Solution for Intramuscular Injection
Pharmacological class Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug (NSAID)
General purpose Alleviation of pain, stiffness, and inflammation
Origin Synthetic (Oxicam derivative)

Identity and Classification

Артрозан is a prescription medicinal product whose active component is Meloxicam, a synthetic compound belonging to the oxicam chemical class of enolic acid derivatives. Its pharmacological classification is that of a Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug (NSAID). Meloxicam is classified as an agent for musculoskeletal disorders, which pertains to its role in this therapeutic area.

Meloxicam is characterized as a preferential inhibitor of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2). Its mechanism is designed to target the specific enzyme responsible for initiating inflammatory pathways more acutely than the enzyme related to protective functions, providing a targeted approach to managing inflammation. Meloxicam is a systemic non-opioid analgesic, a status that underscores its general function in providing relief from physical discomfort.

Composition and Available Forms

Артрозан is a single-component preparation, composed only of the active ingredient Meloxicam. This drug is offered in two distinct primary dosage forms, allowing for oral or parenteral administration: tablets for ingestion and a sterile solution for intramuscular injection contained within ampoules.

This availability of both tablet and injection forms determines the potential routes of administration. The dual presentation is a key feature, ensuring flexibility in systemic delivery to meet various clinical needs, from acute symptom management via injection to chronic continuation of therapy with oral tablets.

General Purpose of Артрозан

The overall purpose of Артрозан is to mitigate the key physical symptoms of inflammation and pain caused by certain chronic conditions. It functions by modulating the underlying chemical processes in the body. By inhibiting the production of pain- and swelling-inducing prostaglandins, the medicine provides symptomatic relief from discomfort and stiffness, helping to improve the patient's general comfort and mobility.

Regulatory References

  1. NIH LiverTox Meloxicam Entry

What side effects are possible with Артрозан?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

Артрозан, containing the active substance meloxicam, is a Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug (NSAID) used to relieve pain and inflammation. Like all medications, it can cause side effects, though not everyone experiences them. It is generally recommended to use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration necessary to minimize risks.


Gastrointestinal and Cardiovascular Risks

All non-aspirin NSAIDs, including meloxicam, carry a Boxed Warning regarding serious risks. They can increase the chance of potentially fatal cardiovascular thrombotic events (such as heart attack or stroke) and serious gastrointestinal adverse events (such as bleeding, ulceration, and perforation of the stomach or intestines). These can occur without warning symptoms and the risk is higher with longer use and in people with pre-existing heart disease or a history of stomach ulcers/bleeding. Meloxicam should not be used for pain immediately before or after coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery.


Common Side Effects

The most frequently reported side effects are generally related to the digestive system and may include abdominal pain, diarrhea, indigestion, heartburn, and nausea.

System Affected Common Side Effects (Occurring in 1% to 10% of patients)
Gastrointestinal Dyspepsia (indigestion), Nausea, Vomiting, Abdominal pain, Diarrhea, Constipation, Flatulence
Nervous System Headache, Dizziness
Other Anemia, Rash, Pruritus (itching), Edema (swelling)

Warnings and Contraindications

Do not take Артрозан if you have a known allergy to meloxicam, aspirin, or other NSAIDs (which may cause asthma, hives, or allergic-type reactions), or if you have active gastrointestinal ulceration/bleeding. Use with caution in elderly patients and those with a history of heart failure, hypertension, kidney disease, or liver dysfunction, as the medication may worsen these conditions or cause fluid retention. Taking meloxicam may also increase blood pressure. It is important to inform your healthcare provider about all medications you take, including over-the-counter drugs, to check for potential interactions.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and when to seek help

Immediate medical attention must be sought in the event of a known or suspected overdose of Артрозан (Meloxicam). The official regulatory profile defines this event as a medical emergency due to the risk of severe systemic complications.

Documented Manifestations Severe Outcomes Requiring Urgent Care
Nausea, Vomiting, Epigastric Pain, Diarrhea Acute Renal Failure, Hepatic Dysfunction
Lethargy and Drowsiness Convulsions, Coma, Cardiac Arrest

Initial manifestations documented in official labeling include gastrointestinal signs such as nausea, vomiting, and epigastric pain, alongside central nervous system effects like lethargy and drowsiness. However, the critical concern is the potential for life-threatening outcomes, including cardiovascular collapse and acute organ failure, which mandates immediate clinical management.

Management Protocol:

Regulatory information confirms that no specific antidote is known for Meloxicam overdose. Treatment focuses exclusively on symptomatic and supportive care. Specific procedures mentioned in the official documentation include the administration of activated charcoal for patients presenting within the initial one to two hours post-ingestion. Additionally, the drug Cholestyramine may be used to accelerate the clearance of Meloxicam. Procedures such as forced diuresis or hemodialysis are generally considered not useful due to the high degree of protein binding.

Therapeutic Uses of Артрозан

What Артрозан Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

Артрозан is used to provide symptomatic relief for conditions that involve inflammatory or irritative states and chronic physical discomfort. The medication may be applied across domains where additional symptomatic support is needed in situations involving distressing musculoskeletal symptoms.

The medicine is commonly used to help manage conditions characterized by periods of heightened symptoms in patients with established diagnoses, including osteoarthritis (OA), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and ankylosing spondylitis (AS). It is also relevant for easing acute inflammatory episodes like a gout flare-up.

The medication is relevant for easing symptom clusters that may become intense or disruptive, specifically targeting symptoms related to physical discomfort, localized swelling, and the physical stiffness that interferes with daily functioning. This application contributes to improved day-to-day comfort during symptomatic periods.

“This application supports patients during difficult episodes by easing distress and is commonly used when short-term symptomatic assistance is needed.”


Quick Fact: Relief for Chronic Discomfort
This medication is considered relevant for managing chronic or episodic pain and stiffness associated with long-term joint diseases; it assists with maintaining functional stability.

Regulatory References

  1. NIH MedlinePlus Drug Information on Meloxicam

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Eligibility Map: Who Can and Cannot Use Артрозан (Meloxicam)

Артрозан (Meloxicam) eligibility is strictly defined by regulatory guidelines, focusing on absolute contraindications and specific population restrictions.

Populations for Whom Use is Contraindicated

Use is strictly prohibited for individuals with a known hypersensitivity to Meloxicam or other NSAIDs, including those with a history of aspirin-sensitive asthma. It is also contraindicated in patients with active gastrointestinal ulceration or bleeding, a history of cerebrovascular bleeding, or current severe heart failure or severe, non-dialysed renal or hepatic failure. The medicine must not be used in the setting of Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) surgery.

Age-Related and Conditional Use

Population Eligibility Status (Official Wording)
Pediatric Use (US) Approved for patients 2 years of age and older for Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis (JRA).
Pediatric Use (EU) Oral forms are contraindicated for individuals under 16 years of age.
Pregnancy Contraindicated during the third trimester (after 30 weeks gestation). Use requires restriction between 20 and 30 weeks.
Older Adults Use requires caution and often a lower initial dose.
Organ Impairment Mild to moderate renal or hepatic impairment does not require dose adjustment.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

Official regulatory information for Артрозан (Meloxicam) describes several interactions, primarily classified by their effect on drug concentration (pharmacokinetic) or additive risk (pharmacodynamic).

Documented Interaction Classes

The co-administration of Meloxicam with Aspirin or other Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) is officially not generally recommended due to a significantly increased risk of serious gastrointestinal adverse events, including bleeding. This restriction is a central feature of the official interaction profile.

Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Outcomes

Meloxicam may increase the plasma levels and reduce the clearance of specific medicines, notably Lithium and Methotrexate, thereby increasing the potential for toxicity. The drug is primarily metabolized by CYP2C9 and minorly by CYP3A4.

Co-administration with Oral Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin), SSRIs, or SNRIs increases the risk of bleeding complications due to a pharmacodynamic synergistic effect. Furthermore, Meloxicam may diminish the antihypertensive effect of medicines like ACE Inhibitors and ARBs, potentially leading to deterioration of renal function, particularly in elderly or volume-depleted patients. Cholestyramine increases the clearance of Meloxicam. Officially documented interaction with alcohol also increases the risk of serious GI adverse events.

Mechanism of Action

Preferential Modulation of Inflammatory Enzymes

The drug acts by preferentially inhibiting the Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) enzyme, which initiates the synthesis of chemical mediators. This targeted action is applied to modulate enzyme activity at the molecular level, decreasing the rate of mediator synthesis.

Suppression of Prostaglandin Signaling

The subsequent suppression of COX-2 drastically reduces the output of key mediators known as prostaglandins, the chemical signals responsible for peripheral nociceptor sensitization and altered vascular permeability at the tissue level. This alteration in chemical dynamics alters the dynamics within the pain signaling and cellular fluid systems, which influences systemic signaling.

Mechanism Kinetics and Boundary Conditions

The mechanism is characterized by dose-dependent selectivity, where inhibition of COX-1 becomes more pronounced at higher concentrations, and its full physiological response is delayed. This reflects the cumulative time needed for suppression and modulation of the overall pathway activity in affected tissues.

Dosage and Administration Information

Official Dosing and Administration Guidelines

Артрозан (Meloxicam) is used according to established dosing regimens. The guiding principle for all routes is to use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration necessary to manage symptoms.


Standard Adult Regimens

The total daily amount is administered as a single dose (once daily). The primary dose forms are tablets for long-term use and a solution for injection for initial or acute management.

Administration Route Starting Dose Maximum Daily Dose (Adults)
Oral (Tablets) 7.5 mg once daily 15 mg
Parenteral (IV/IM Injection) 30 mg once daily 30 mg (Injection)

Administration Instructions and Restrictions

  • Oral Intake: Tablets may be taken without regard to the timing of meals. Oral tablets are swallowed whole and should not be crushed or chewed. If using the oral suspension, the bottle is shaken well before measuring the dose.
  • Parenteral Use: The injectable form is typically administered for a very limited duration and is used for acute relief, with patients transitioned to the oral formulation for continued therapy.
  • Dose Maximum: The adult oral dose does not exceed 15 mg per day, regardless of the oral formulation (tablet, suspension, etc.) used.
  • Population Adjustment: A reduced daily maximum of 7.5 mg is recommended for adult patients with end-stage renal disease on hemodialysis.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of studies for Артрозан

Evidence for Use in Osteoarthritis (OA)

Research was studied for conditions characterized by fluctuating or episodic manifestations in patients with Osteoarthritis and primarily consists of Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs). These controlled studies were used in research exploring how symptoms change over time. Studies were conducted during periods of increased symptom activity and applied to populations of adults, mainly involving the hip or the knee. The main focus was monitoring measured outcomes related to pain intensity, daily functioning, and physical stiffness. Reports indicated that the measured outcomes were mixed when assessing the lowest studied doses compared to the comparison groups. Follow-up durations were typically limited to 8 to 12 weeks, meaning there is limited information for long-term outcomes.


Evidence for Use in Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) and Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS)

Research was evaluated in conditions characterized by functional limitations, such as Rheumatoid Arthritis and Ankylosing Spondylitis, and includes short-term RCTs and specific long-term observational studies lasting up to a year and a half. These trials were relevant in evidence describing how symptoms are measured across conditions involving periods of heightened symptoms. Studies report how symptoms evolved in the observed populations with established RA, demonstrating patterns related to measured discomfort and stiffness over the defined study periods. Because the oral form requires several days to reach a consistent level, the existing research primarily focuses on its evaluation in chronic symptoms and is not optimized for rapid insight into acute, disruptive episodes.


Evidence in Special Populations, Including Children

The research base includes studies that specifically evaluated the medicine in pediatric patients (children 2 years of age) with Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis (JRA). These studies examined the weight-based administration for children, as well as monitoring outcomes related to systemic or functional imbalance. Research provides context regarding measured short-term changes for children with JRA, which is a condition characterized by fluctuating manifestations. While the JRA studies were crucial for regulatory understanding, the sample sizes were modest compared to the adult RA trials.


What Remains Uncertain About the Research Landscape

Research was applied in studies examining patient-reported experiences of symptom intensity and variability, but the findings describe group patterns, not personal outcomes. A significant limitation is the follow-up duration of most randomized trials, which were often limited to three months. This means there is limited information for long-term outcomes, and long-term effects are not fully established over many years. Additionally, comparative evidence is lacking against other types of prescription options.

Key Studies & References

  1. A One Year Double-blind Trial to Investigate the Efficacy and Safety of Meloxicam Oral Suspension in Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis (JRA/JIA) (Pediatric/JRA RCT)
  2. Public Assessment Report Scientific discussion Meloxicam “Ozone”... (Regulatory review of OA/RA/AS evidence and pharmacokinetics)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Артрозан (FAQ)


Q: Are stomach issues a common concern noted in the safety profile of Артрозан?

Official documents describe common, usually mild, gastrointestinal (GI) side effects like nausea and indigestion. However, like all NSAIDs, the product carries a serious warning about the risk of more severe GI adverse events, such as bleeding or ulceration. This risk is a required part of the safety information found in regulatory documents.


Q: Is there an official list of severe side effects associated with Артрозан?

Regulatory documents detail several serious risks associated with use. These include the potential for cardiovascular issues like heart attack or stroke, and major gastrointestinal problems such as bleeding. Severe allergic-type reactions and certain blood disorders are also detailed in the official safety information.


Q: Is Артрозан usage restricted for people with certain heart conditions?

Official guidance indicates that use is strictly prohibited in patients with severe heart failure or immediately before or after coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery. Official documents also warn that the medicine may worsen pre-existing hypertension (high blood pressure) and carries a general risk of serious cardiovascular events.


Q: In high-level terms, how is Артрозан different from other common medicines for joint pain?

Official descriptions classify the medicine as a Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug (NSAID). A key distinction noted in regulatory documents is that it preferentially inhibits the Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) enzyme, which is responsible for initiating inflammation.


Q: Why might a physician prescribe Артрозан instead of a different category of pain reliever?

Official product information states the drug is indicated for managing pain and inflammation related to chronic conditions like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. The drug's indications for chronic conditions, combined with its preferential COX-2 inhibitory properties, provide the basis for its use.


Q: Is it possible to have an allergic reaction to Артрозан?

Yes, official safety information indicates that serious and potentially fatal allergic-type reactions, including anaphylaxis, have been reported. For this reason, official guidance notes that use is strictly prohibited for any individual with a known hypersensitivity to the active substance or other drugs in the NSAID class.


Q: What do regulatory sources say about combining Артрозан with blood thinners?

Regulatory documents warn that combining this medicine with common 'blood thinners' (such as oral anticoagulants) is associated with an increased risk of serious bleeding complications. Combining it with Aspirin or other NSAIDs is also not generally recommended due to this safety risk.


Q: What are the key eligibility restrictions for using Артрозан?

Key regulatory restrictions strictly prohibit use for individuals with active gastrointestinal bleeding or ulceration, known hypersensitivity to NSAIDs, or severe heart, kidney, or liver failure. Official guidance notes it must also not be used immediately following coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery.


Q: Does official information address the use of Артрозан in older adults?

Yes, official documents state that use in older adults requires caution, and a lower initial dose is sometimes recommended. Official documents indicate that this population may face an increased risk for serious gastrointestinal and cardiovascular adverse events.


Q: Is Артрозан ever mentioned in the context of use for children or adolescents?

Official labels contain different guidance depending on the region. Regulatory documents note that, in the US label, use is indicated for Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis (JRA) in patients 2 years of age and older. However, regulatory documents in other regions, such as the EU, state that the oral form is strictly contraindicated for individuals under 16 years of age.


Q: What does the regulatory classification indicate about Артрозан use during pregnancy?

Regulatory documents classify the drug's use during pregnancy as highly restricted. Official product information indicates that use is strictly contraindicated during the third trimester (after 30 weeks gestation) due to potential harm to the fetus. Restriction and careful consideration are also advised during the second trimester (between 20 and 30 weeks).


Q: What themes are common in the research evidence cited for Артрозан's uses?

Official information summarizing studies often cites research themes focused on assessing changes in patient symptoms. The measured outcomes typically evaluate improvements in pain intensity, reductions in physical stiffness, and enhancements to daily functioning for patients with inflammatory joint conditions.


Q: Is there official information available about how Артрозан was studied in clinical trials?

Official documents confirm that the research base is primarily formed by Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs). These studies were typically conducted on adult patient populations with established conditions like osteoarthritis, often involving follow-up durations of 8 to 12 weeks.


Q: Is Артрозан described as a steroid in official documents?

No, official regulatory documents classify the medicine as a Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug (NSAID) and specifically an oxicam derivative. It is not classified as a steroid.


Q: Can Артрозан be used for any kind of body pain, or is its use restricted?

The approved uses for this medicine are restricted to the management of pain and inflammation associated with specific chronic inflammatory conditions. Regulatory documents indicate that its approved uses are restricted to these specific labeled indications, and it is not broadly approved for all types of body pain.


Q: What does the official label state about driving while using Артрозан?

The official label advises caution regarding driving or operating machinery. If a patient experiences side effects such as dizziness, somnolence (drowsiness), or disturbances in vision, the official label advises that patients experiencing these effects should refrain from such activities.


Q: What precautions are officially described for discontinuing Артрозан treatment?

Regulatory documents do not describe specific precautions for gradually stopping the medicine, as it is for symptomatic relief and is not associated with a formal withdrawal syndrome. Official documents describe instructions for transitioning from the short-term injectable form to the long-term oral form.


Q: What information is available about the effect of Артрозан on blood pressure?

Regulatory warnings indicate the medicine may be associated with new or worsened hypertension (high blood pressure). It may also diminish the blood pressure-lowering effects of certain other medications, such as ACE inhibitors.


Q: Are there specific 'Black Box' or 'Serious Warning' statements related to Артрозан?

Yes, the product carries a Boxed Warning, which is the official term for what is commonly referred to as a 'Black Box' warning. This serious warning highlights the risks of cardiovascular thrombotic events (like heart attack or stroke) and serious gastrointestinal adverse events.


Q: Does the official documentation describe the physical appearance of the Артрозан tablet/capsule?

Yes, official documentation includes a description of the drug's physical characteristics. This information typically covers details such as the color, shape, and any identifying imprints that may be found on the tablets or capsules.


Q: How long after starting the medication do people typically notice an effect from Артрозан?

Official texts note that the oral form of the medicine requires several days to reach a consistent level in the body. For this reason, the full physiological response and therapeutic effect may be delayed after starting treatment.


Q: Does Артрозан affect fertility, based on regulatory reports and studies?

Regulatory documents indicate that the medicine, similar to other drugs in its class, may temporarily affect female fertility. Regulatory guidance notes that, for women experiencing difficulty conceiving, discontinuation of the drug is a consideration.


Q: What information is provided in the patient leaflet about missing a dose of Артрозан?

The standard instruction in the patient leaflet advises taking the next dose at the regularly scheduled time, without doubling the dose to compensate. This instruction applies if a dose is missed.


Q: Are there specific demographic groups listed as needing closer monitoring when using Артрозан?

Regulatory warnings indicate that closer monitoring may be needed for several specific groups. These include older adults, patients with pre-existing heart failure or high blood pressure, individuals with volume depletion, and those with mild to moderate kidney or liver impairment.

How should Артрозан be stored and disposed of?

The storage and disposal of Артрозан (Meloxicam) must strictly adhere to the conditions specified in official regulatory labeling to ensure product integrity and safety.

Storage Conditions

Temperature and Environment

The product must be stored at a temperature not exceeding 25°C. It must be kept in its original container and protected from light. The injection solution is specifically required not to be frozen.

Child Protection

All forms of the medicine must be stored out of the sight and reach of children.


Disposal Requirements

Unused or expired product must be disposed of in accordance with local regulatory requirements. The medicine must not be discarded via wastewater or placed into regular household waste. Disposal should follow authorized collection procedures.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

Available in countries:

Equivalent of Артрозан found in:

A-Z Index: