Is sleepiness a side effect of meloxicam?

Meloxicam is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). Doctors prescribe meloxicam to help relieve pain and reduce swelling (inflammation) related to certain conditions, such as:

• osteoarthritis
• rheumatoid arthritis (RA)
• juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA) in some children

You take meloxicam by mouth as an oral tablet or capsule. It is also available as an oral liquid (suspension). Meloxicam is a generic drug and the tablet form is also available in a brand-name version called Mobic.

Does meloxicam have a sedative effect?

According to studies, sleepiness is not a common side effect of meloxicam. But, it’s possible that you may feel tired, weak, or sleepy if you experience other side effects of meloxicam.

For instance, having flu-like symptoms is one of the potential side effects of meloxicam oral tablet. This can include symptoms such as:

• body aches
• chills
• fatigue (tiredness)
• fever

If you notice flu-like symptoms while taking meloxicam, you may also feel weaker or more sleepy than usual.

Also, according to studies, taking meloxicam oral tablet long term may cause insomnia in some people. If you have difficulty sleeping while taking meloxicam, you may feel drowsy or tired during the day.

It is also possible that meloxicam may interact with other medications that you’re taking. Make sure your doctor is aware of all other medications and supplements that you’re taking before you start meloxicam treatment.

If feeling tired or sleepy makes it difficult for you to go about your daily activities, be sure to let your doctor know. They can adjust your dose or possibly switch you to a different drug that may work better for you. Don’t stop taking meloxicam or change your dose without consulting your doctor.

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What are the most common side effects of meloxicam?

The most commonly reported side effects of meloxicam include: 

• diarrhea
• upper respiratory tract infections
• indigestion
• flu-like symptoms
• nausea
• headaches

Keep in mind that side effects can vary from person to person. Certain factors like your age, other conditions you may have, and other medications you take can affect the types of side effects you experience.

Although serious meloxicam side effects are rare, it’s important to be aware that, like other NSAIDs, taking meloxicam may increase your risk of:

• heart attack
• stroke
• gastrointestinal bleeding and ulcers
• perforation of the stomach or intestines
• kidney damage
• liver damage

If you have any concerning side effects while taking meloxicam, get medical attention immediately.

Before prescribing meloxicam, your doctor will review your health history to determine whether it’s safe for you to take this drug.

Should you take meloxicam at night or in the morning?

Typically, you’ll take meloxicam once per day. You can take meloxicam with or without food.

If you notice that side effects like sleepiness make it harder to focus during the day, ask your doctor whether you can take your dose at night.

On the other hand, if you notice that taking meloxicam later in the day is affecting your sleep, consider taking your dose in the morning.

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Summary

Meloxicam isn’t known to cause sleepiness. But, you may feel weak or tired if you experience other side effects such as flu-like symptoms or insomnia.

If meloxicam is making you feel sleepy or tired, or you have other bothersome side effects, talk with your doctor about other treatment options. They may change your dose or switch you to a different medication.

Don’t stop taking meloxicam or change your dose without medical supervision. Doing so could lead to other side effects or cause serious complications.