Metacam Oral Suspension

Metacam Oral Suspension contains meloxicam, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), and is indicated for the control of pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis in dogs.

Warning: Repeated use of meloxicam in cats has been associated with acute renal failure and death. Do not administer additional injectable or oral meloxicam to cats. See the Contraindications, Warnings, and Precautions sections of the manufacturer product insert for detailed information.

METACAM (meloxicam oral suspension) is a veterinary prescription non-steroidal, anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that helps control pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis (OA) in dogs 6 months and older. METACAM is approved by the FDA to help dogs who suffer from a degenerative and inflammatory joint condition.

NSAIDs, such as METACAM, improve your dog’s overall mobility by relieving joint pain and inflammation. Similar to human osteoarthritis (OA), canine OA is a condition in which one or more joints become inflamed and painful and may even be swollen.

The most common risk factors contributing to the development of OA include increasing age (especially geriatric dogs) and obesity. Other risk factors include:

If your dog has OA, they may exhibit signs including:

METACAM comes in a liquid formulation, so it’s easy for you to administer the precise effective dose possible recommended by your veterinarian. Just use the easy-to-read syringe that is provided in the box. METACAM is safe for use in small, medium, large, and extra-large dogs. Ask your veterinarian about METACAM for dogs living with OA pain to help them find relief and get them back to doing the things they love.

Dogs (6 months of age and older)

Meloxicam

Silicon dioxide, sodium benzoate, sorbitol, glycerin, saccharin sodium, Xylitol*, sodium phosphate (monobasic, dihydrate), citric acid monohydrate, hydroxyethyl cellulose (2000 mPa.s at 1%).

Metacam

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug

Metacam Oral Suspension is honey flavored.

Boehringer Ingelheim

Metacam Oral Suspension is available in two strengths: 0.5 mg/mL and 1.5 mg/mL. Please ensure the selected product and package size are appropriate for your pet, as recommended by your veterinarian.

For current availability, please refer to the product selection above.

Metacam Oral Suspension should be given orally as directed by your veterinarian. Shake well before each use. Metacam Oral Suspension can be given either mixed with food or placed directly into the mouth. Please consult your veterinarian before making any changes or discontinuing the prescribed dosing schedule.

Your veterinarian will carefully consider the potential benefits and risks of METACAM (meloxicam oral suspension) and other treatment options before deciding to use METACAM. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration consistent with individual response. METACAM should be administered initially at 0.09 mg/lb. (0.2 mg/kg) body weight only on the first day of treatment. For all treatments after day 1, METACAM should be administered once daily at a dose of 0.045 mg/lb. (0.1 mg/kg). The syringe is calibrated to deliver the daily oral maintenance dose in pounds. Please note: Using the weight of your dog, and noting the dose concentration of the METACAM, use the full prescribing information to determine how to draw up the dose (syringe or dropper) and administer the dose (directly into the mouth or mixed in with the food).

Administer the dose as soon as possible. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with the regular schedule. Do not give more medication than prescribed or two doses at once.

If you have questions about your pet’s prescribed dosing schedule (e.g., timing, interval), please consult your veterinarian.

Store in a cool, dry place at a controlled room temperature, 68-77°F. Excursions permitted between 59° and 86°F. Brief exposure to temperatures up to 104°F may be tolerated provided the mean kinetic temperature does not exceed 77°F; however, such exposure should be minimized. Keep in a secure location out of reach of children and pets.

Exposure to extreme temperatures, light, or moisture can affect the integrity and effectiveness of medications. Always store medications properly (e.g., away from the bathroom, kitchen sink, or other damp places).

As a class, cyclo-oxygenase inhibitory NSAIDs may be associated with stomach, liver, or kidney problems. The most common side effects of this medication are vomiting and soft stool or diarrhea. These are usually mild and affect primarily the gastrointestinal system, but more serious side effects can occur. Therefore, NSAIDs should only be administered under the direction of a licensed professional. If you notice side effects in your dog during treatment, stop the drug and call your veterinarian.

If you notice anything unusual, please consult your veterinarian.

For oral use in dogs only. Not for use in humans. Keep this and all medications out of reach of children. Consult a physician in case of accidental ingestion by humans.

Do not use METACAM Oral Suspension in cats. Acute renal failure and death have been associated with the use of meloxicam in cats.

As with any NSAID, all dogs should undergo a thorough history and physical examination before the initiation of NSAID therapy. Appropriate laboratory testing is recommended prior to and periodically during administration. Owners should observe their dog for signs of potential drug toxicity.

The safe use of METACAM (meloxicam oral suspension) in dogs younger than 6 months of age, dogs used for breeding, or in pregnant or lactating dogs has not been evaluated. Meloxicam is not recommended for use in dogs with bleeding disorders, as safety has not been established in dogs with these disorders.

With your veterinarian, carefully consider the potential benefits and risks of METACAM and other treatment options before deciding to use METACAM. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration consistent with individual response.

Do not administer Metacam Oral Suspension to animals with a known or suspected allergy/hypersensitivity to meloxicam or any other NSAID medication. Allergic reactions to medications may occur. Please inform Vetsource and your veterinarian if your pet has any known sensitivities or allergies, especially to medications and supplements.

If your pet displays symptoms of an allergic reaction, discontinue therapy and call your veterinarian immediately or seek emergency veterinary attention. Symptoms may include (but are not limited to): swollen lips, tongue, face, or airways; difficulty breathing; agitation; profuse salivation; and widespread hives or itching.

The following drugs* may have potential interactions with this medication: anticoagulants (e.g., heparins, rivaroxaban, warfarin), antidiabetic agents (including insulins), beta blockers (e.g., atenolol, sotalol), bisphosphonates (e.g., alendronate), blood pressure medications (e.g., enalapril, sildenafil, telmisartan), calcium channel blockers (e.g., amlodipine, diltiazem), clopidogrel, corticosteroids (e.g., dexamethasone, prednisone), cyclosporine, digoxin, diuretics (e.g., furosemide, hydrochlorothiazide, spironolactone), fluoroquinolone antibiotics (e.g., ciprofloxacin), methotrexate, concurrent NSAIDs, pentoxifylline, salicylates (e.g., aspirin, bismuth subsalicylate), SSRIs (e.g., fluoxetine, sertraline), toceranib (Palladia), and tricyclic antidepressants (e.g., amitriptyline, clomipramine).

*NOTE: This may not be a comprehensive list of all possible drug interactions. As with all medications, please consult your veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns prior to use. Contact your veterinarian if your pet experiences any unusual reactions when multiple medications and/or supplements are given together.

Please ensure your veterinarian is aware of all medications, supplements, and over-the-counter (OTC) products that your pet is currently using. Your veterinarian may prescribe multiple medications, even if a potential drug interaction may occur. In these instances, your veterinarian may adjust the dosages or monitor your pet more closely.

If you are concerned that your pet has experienced an adverse reaction to this medication, please contact the manufacturer Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health USA at 1-888-637-4251 or Vetsource Pet Owner Care at 877-738-4443.

If you have any reason to suspect an overdose, call your doctor/veterinarian or the appropriate poison control resource immediately.

For humans:

The national toll-free Poison Help line, 1-800-222-1222, will connect you to your local poison center in case of emergency. This service is available nationwide and in most U.S. territories.

For animals:

The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year at 888-426-4435.

Pet Poison Helpline® also provides a 24/7 animal poison control service at 855-764-7661.

All content, including the images and product description above, is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional veterinary consultation, diagnosis, or treatment.

For additional information about this product and how it fits into your pet's individual treatment plan, please consult your veterinarian.