Modern medicine has continued to evolve as connections between substances, controlled or otherwise, are discovered. In 1930, what would have put a person out of commission is more likely to be seen as a minor inconvenience for a twenty-something living in 2022. This is thanks to our vast understanding of medical conditions and the most appropriate medication that can be used to treat them. However, that does not mean we should take this knowledge for granted.
Meloxicam is a strong painkiller used to treat symptoms of arthritis, a disease hallmarked by inflammation of the joints. Today, Our Texas treatment center explores the relationship between meloxicam and alcohol and the risks involved in this combination.
Is Meloxicam a Narcotic?
While meloxicam is a strong medication, it is not designed to affect the mood or behavior of the patient. This was the initial indicator of what makes a drug a narcotic. In a modern setting, it is a widely used term in describing illegal substances. It technically refers to opioids and opiates, such as morphine or heroin, though to avoid any confusion, opioid is more commonly used.
Meloxicam does not fall into these distinctions. Instead, it is categorized as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It reduces hormones in the body that cause pain and inflammation, both of which are key indicators of an arthritic diagnosis.
Different brands of meloxicam are used to treat different ages. Vivlodex and Anjeso are used to treat moderate to severe pain in adult patients, while Mobic and Qmiiz ODT do so for adults or children who are at least 2 years old, or 132 pounds respectively. Adult patients should be wary of the warnings involved with mixing this substance with alcohol.
Alcohol and Meloxicam Side Effects
Most arthritis patients know very well that anti-inflammatory drugs are best taken after eating something, allowing the stomach to be properly lined to reduce gastrointestinal damage. Unfortunately, this can lead to the mistake that a glass of wine with a pre-medication meal is not a big deal.
It is strongly recommended that patients do not drink alcohol while taking meloxicam. The latter possesses a variety of side effects on its own, which alcohol is likely to agitate when ingested. For instance, drinking alcohol may increase the risk of stomach bleeding. Signs of these issues include coughing up blood, vomit that resembles coffee grounds, or stool that appears bloody or like black tar.
Dangers of Meloxicam and Alcohol Interactions
Since a large percentage of arthritic patients are senior citizens, these people are at a heightened risk of falling victim to lethal side effects, including:
- Liver damage
- Difficulty breathing
- Stroke
- Gastritis
- Heart attack or heart failure
Since meloxicam is prescribed by weight, it also makes accidentally overdosing from this combination that much more likely.
Signs of a meloxicam Overdose can include:
- Difficulty breathing
- Severe chest pain
- Seizures
- The skin, lips, or fingernails turning blue
If you experience any of these sensations, call your doctor immediately or visit your nearest emergency room.
We are Here to Help
It is easy to read these risks and acknowledge the dangers involved, but people with addiction understand that this knowledge alone won’t always be enough. You deserve to live a life that is pain-free and fulfilling, and our Banyan rehab in Texas provides a variety of treatments designed to help you overcome a dependency on alcohol.
Choosing to seek help is an incredibly brave act and should be done with transparency, respect, and understanding. If you arrive at the program while in the midst of a dependency, our medically monitored detox is an excellent option when gauging what substances are present and how to safely withdraw the toxins from your body.
For more information about our Texas treatment services, call Banyan Treatment Centers at 888-280-4763 today!
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