Veterinary Meloxicam for Dogs: Product and Prescription Questions

Meloxicam is an active ingredient used in FDA-approved veterinary nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) products. In the United States, currently marketed meloxicam products for dogs include the reference brand Metacam and multiple generic products. FDA lists veterinary meloxicam for dogs as available in oral and injectable forms, and these NSAID products require a veterinarian's prescription.

Veterinary product identity

This page is about veterinary meloxicam. For dogs, a common FDA-approved product form is meloxicam oral suspension. Metacam oral suspension is the reference product, and FDA has approved multiple generic oral suspensions through abbreviated new animal drug applications. Recent FDA records include generic 0.5 mg/mL and 1.5 mg/mL oral suspensions for dogs.

Exact product identity matters. A listing should identify the veterinary label, species, concentration or strength, dosage form, sponsor or manufacturer, and application information. The word "meloxicam" by itself is not enough to establish that two products are the same veterinary formulation.

Prescription status and availability

FDA states that currently marketed NSAIDs approved for dogs, including meloxicam, are available by veterinary prescription only. A seller presenting an NSAID for dogs as an over-the-counter product should not be treated as equivalent to an FDA-approved veterinary prescription product.

Availability can vary by brand, generic manufacturer, concentration, package size, and distributor. King Pharmacy's publication of this page does not establish current veterinary inventory. Confirm the exact veterinary prescription and current product availability with a veterinarian and licensed pharmacy.

Price and generic comparisons

Cost can differ between Metacam and FDA-approved generic meloxicam products and can vary by concentration, bottle size, pharmacy, and market. An old online price is not a current King Pharmacy offer. When comparing prices, make sure the products being compared have the same veterinary dosage form and concentration.

Safety and veterinarian guidance

Meloxicam belongs to the NSAID class. FDA advises that NSAID treatment in dogs requires veterinary oversight because these medicines can cause adverse effects, including gastrointestinal, kidney, and liver problems. The veterinarian should determine whether an NSAID is appropriate and what monitoring is needed.

Use the labeling supplied with the exact veterinary product and the veterinarian's prescription directions. Do not substitute a different meloxicam formulation or concentration based on an online product page.