If your vet has prescribed Meloxicam for your pet, you might be surprised to find it sold under several different brand names. Here’s what you need to know about this commonly prescribed veterinary medicine, how it works, and the trusted brands available at Weldricks Pharmacy.
If your vet has specified a specific brand you will be supplied that brand.
What is Meloxicam?
Meloxicam is a prescription-only medicine (POM-V) classified as a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It is widely used to reduce inflammation and relieve pain in animals suffering from musculoskeletal disorders, including:
- Osteoarthritis
- Joint pain or stiffness
- Post-operative discomfort
- Soft tissue injuries
Meloxicam is commonly prescribed for dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, and horses, and is often formulated as a flavoured oral suspension for easy administration.
How Does Meloxicam Work?
Meloxicam works by inhibiting cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, which are responsible for the production of prostaglandins. These chemicals trigger pain, swelling, fever, and inflammation. By reducing prostaglandin levels, Meloxicam helps your pet feel more comfortable and recover more quickly—whether they’re suffering from chronic arthritis or acute surgical pain.
Meloxicam is one of the most commonly prescribed NSAIDs in veterinary medicine due to its proven safety profile and effectiveness when dosed correctly.
Why Are There So Many Different Names for Meloxicam?
Meloxicam is the active ingredient, but it’s sold under various brand names by different manufacturers. Each contains the same core medication but may differ slightly in excipients, flavouring, or concentration.
Important: As long as the concentration (e.g., 1.5mg/ml for dogs or 0.5mg/ml for cats) matches your veterinary prescription, you can usually choose any of the available brands. Always double-check with your vet or pharmacist if you’re unsure.
Trusted Meloxicam Brands Available from Weldricks Pharmacy
We stock a wide range of Meloxicam-based products to suit your budget and your pet’s preferences:
Metacam
One of the most recognised veterinary NSAID brands, Metacam is licensed for use in dogs, cats, guinea pigs, and horses. It’s known for its palatable taste and accurate dosing syringe. Widely trusted by vets across the UK.
Meloxidyl
A cost-effective alternative to Metacam, Meloxidyl contains the same active ingredient and is similarly flavoured for easy administration. It’s available in suspensions tailored for both cats and dogs.
Rheumocam
Licensed for dogs and cats, Rheumocam is another affordable option and comes with a dosing syringe for simple, accurate use. Its effectiveness and safety profile are consistent with other Meloxicam products.
Loxicom
Loxicom is available in both oral suspension and injectable forms and is approved for use in cats, dogs, pigs, and horses. It is often selected for its competitive pricing and ease of use.
Inflacam
Inflacam is a UK-licensed Meloxicam brand used mainly in horses. It is commonly prescribed for musculoskeletal disorders and is typically administered orally or via injection.
Choosing the Right Meloxicam Product
All these brands contain Meloxicam and are bioequivalent when the dosage and concentration match your vet’s prescription. Choosing between them often comes down to:
- Cost
- Flavour preference (especially important for cats and dogs)
- Veterinary recommendation
- Availability
Weldricks Pharmacy is a UK-registered pharmacy and all veterinary medicines we supply are fully licensed by the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD).
Final Tips on Using Meloxicam
- Always follow your vet’s instructions exactly. Overdosing can be harmful.
- Never use human NSAIDs (like ibuprofen) in pets—they can be toxic.
- If switching brands, ensure the concentration and dose instructions remain the same.
- Store oral suspensions out of reach of children and pets.
