Joinflex-M
Generic Name
joinflex-m-20-mg-tablet
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| joinflex m 20 mg tablet | ৳ 25.00 | ৳ 150.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Joinflex-M 20 mg Tablet contains Meloxicam, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to relieve pain, inflammation, and stiffness caused by conditions like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
For osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, the usual dose is 7.5 mg or 15 mg once daily. Although 20 mg is available as a specific product, it is generally considered a higher dose and should be used under strict medical supervision for specific conditions where lower doses are insufficient, and not to exceed the maximum recommended daily dose for chronic use.
Elderly
Initiate treatment with the lowest effective dose, typically 7.5 mg once daily, due to increased risk of adverse effects.
Renal_impairment
Not recommended in patients with severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance < 30 mL/min). In mild to moderate impairment, a maximum dose of 7.5 mg once daily should be considered with caution.
How to Take
Take orally once daily, with food or milk to minimize gastrointestinal upset. Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water.
Mechanism of Action
Meloxicam works by preferentially inhibiting cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) enzyme, which is involved in the synthesis of prostaglandins, inflammatory mediators. This reduces pain and inflammation.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Analgesic effects typically begin within 30-60 minutes, while full anti-inflammatory effects may take several days of consistent use.
Excretion
Approximately 50% of the dose is excreted in the urine and 50% in the feces, mainly as metabolites.
Half life
Approximately 15-20 hours, allowing for once-daily dosing.
Absorption
Well absorbed orally with an approximate bioavailability of 89%. Peak plasma concentrations are achieved within 5-6 hours.
Metabolism
Extensively metabolized in the liver, primarily via CYP2C9 and CYP3A4 enzymes, to inactive metabolites.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to Meloxicam or any excipients
- History of asthma, urticaria, or allergic-type reactions after aspirin or other NSAIDs
- Active gastrointestinal bleeding or peptic ulceration
- Severe hepatic impairment
- Severe renal impairment (not dialyzed)
- Severe heart failure
- Third trimester of pregnancy
- Peri-operative pain in the setting of coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery
Drug Interactions
Lithium
Increased plasma lithium levels, leading to potential toxicity.
Diuretics
Reduced natriuretic and diuretic effects.
Cyclosporine
Increased nephrotoxicity of cyclosporine.
Methotrexate
Increased plasma methotrexate levels, leading to potential toxicity.
Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin)
Increased risk of bleeding.
ACE Inhibitors/Angiotensin Receptor Blockers (ARBs)
Reduced antihypertensive effect and increased risk of renal impairment.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include lethargy, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, epigastric pain, and gastrointestinal bleeding. In severe cases, hypertension, acute renal failure, respiratory depression, and coma may occur. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive. There is no specific antidote. Gastric lavage and activated charcoal may be considered if ingestion is recent.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Avoid during the third trimester of pregnancy due to potential for premature closure of the fetal ductus arteriosus and potential renal dysfunction. Use during the first and second trimesters, and during lactation, only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus or infant. Consult a doctor.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to Meloxicam or any excipients
- History of asthma, urticaria, or allergic-type reactions after aspirin or other NSAIDs
- Active gastrointestinal bleeding or peptic ulceration
- Severe hepatic impairment
- Severe renal impairment (not dialyzed)
- Severe heart failure
- Third trimester of pregnancy
- Peri-operative pain in the setting of coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery
Drug Interactions
Lithium
Increased plasma lithium levels, leading to potential toxicity.
Diuretics
Reduced natriuretic and diuretic effects.
Cyclosporine
Increased nephrotoxicity of cyclosporine.
Methotrexate
Increased plasma methotrexate levels, leading to potential toxicity.
Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin)
Increased risk of bleeding.
ACE Inhibitors/Angiotensin Receptor Blockers (ARBs)
Reduced antihypertensive effect and increased risk of renal impairment.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include lethargy, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, epigastric pain, and gastrointestinal bleeding. In severe cases, hypertension, acute renal failure, respiratory depression, and coma may occur. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive. There is no specific antidote. Gastric lavage and activated charcoal may be considered if ingestion is recent.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Avoid during the third trimester of pregnancy due to potential for premature closure of the fetal ductus arteriosus and potential renal dysfunction. Use during the first and second trimesters, and during lactation, only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus or infant. Consult a doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
24 to 36 months from the date of manufacture, depending on manufacturer specifications.
Availability
Pharmacies and hospitals
Approval Status
Approved
Patent Status
Generic available
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Meloxicam has undergone extensive clinical trials demonstrating its efficacy and safety in various inflammatory and painful conditions, particularly osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. Trials have focused on dose-response, long-term safety, and comparative studies with other NSAIDs.
Lab Monitoring
- Complete Blood Count (CBC) (especially for long-term use)
- Renal function tests (e.g., creatinine, BUN)
- Liver function tests (e.g., ALT, AST)
- Blood pressure monitoring
Doctor Notes
- Prescribe the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible duration consistent with individual patient treatment goals.
- Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of gastrointestinal ulceration or bleeding, and cardiovascular events.
- Assess renal and hepatic function periodically in patients on long-term therapy.
- Caution should be exercised in patients with a history of cardiovascular disease, gastrointestinal issues, or pre-existing renal impairment.
Patient Guidelines
- Take Joinflex-M exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
- Always take the tablet with food or milk to reduce stomach upset.
- Do not take more than the recommended dose, as it may increase the risk of side effects.
- Inform your doctor if you experience any unusual bleeding, severe stomach pain, or swelling (edema).
Missed Dose Advice
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Driving Precautions
Meloxicam may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or visual disturbances in some individuals. If you experience these effects, avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how the medication affects you.
Lifestyle Advice
- Avoid alcohol consumption while taking Joinflex-M, as it can increase the risk of stomach bleeding.
- Do not take other NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen) concurrently without consulting your doctor.
- Discuss any underlying cardiovascular or gastrointestinal conditions with your doctor before starting treatment.
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