What is Meloxicam?
Meloxicam is a prescription nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to relieve pain, tenderness, swelling, and stiffness [1.7.1]. It is most commonly prescribed for various forms of arthritis, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and juvenile rheumatoid arthritis [1.7.1, 1.7.7]. As a preferential COX-2 inhibitor, meloxicam works by stopping the body's production of prostaglandins, substances that cause pain and inflammation [1.7.1, 1.7.2, 1.7.6]. This selective action is intended to reduce the risk of gastrointestinal side effects compared to non-selective NSAIDs like ibuprofen or naproxen [1.7.4, 1.7.5].
Common Uses for Meloxicam:
- Osteoarthritis [1.7.1]
- Rheumatoid Arthritis [1.7.1]
- Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis (in children 2 years and older) [1.7.3]
- Ankylosing Spondylitis (off-label use) [1.7.1]
The Link Between Meloxicam and Hair Loss
Hair loss, or alopecia, is listed as a potential side effect of meloxicam, though it is generally considered to be less frequent or its frequency is not officially reported [1.5.6, 1.3.1]. Multiple medical information sources confirm that thinning hair or minor hair loss can occur in some individuals taking the medication [1.2.2, 1.2.4, 1.5.5].
Drug-induced hair loss typically falls into two categories:
- Telogen Effluvium: This is the most common form of drug-induced hair loss. It occurs when a medication causes a large number of hair follicles to prematurely enter the resting (telogen) phase of the hair growth cycle [1.6.3]. This results in diffuse shedding and thinning, usually noticeable 2 to 4 months after starting the drug [1.4.5]. Hair loss from NSAIDs like meloxicam is most often telogen effluvium [1.4.6, 1.4.7].
- Anagen Effluvium: This is a more sudden and severe hair loss that happens during the growing (anagen) phase. It is most famously associated with chemotherapy drugs [1.4.6].
The hair loss associated with meloxicam is generally not extreme and is usually reversible upon discontinuing the medication [1.2.5]. Most people see their hair begin to grow back within 3 to 6 months after stopping the causative drug [1.6.3, 1.6.6].
How Prevalent is This Side Effect?
The exact incidence of meloxicam-induced hair loss is not well-defined in clinical trials, often falling into the "frequency not reported" category in official drug information [1.3.1]. Anecdotal reports and lists of less common side effects from various health organizations confirm its existence [1.2.1, 1.2.3]. For NSAIDs in general, drug-induced hair loss is estimated to occur in less than 1-2% of users [1.4.7].
Comparison of Hair Loss-Inducing Medications
Meloxicam is not the only medication that can cause hair loss. Many different classes of drugs are known culprits. Understanding these can help put the risk from NSAIDs into perspective.
Medication Class | Examples | Typical Hair Loss Risk |
---|---|---|
NSAIDs | Meloxicam, Ibuprofen, Naproxen, Diclofenac [1.4.3] | Less than 2% of users [1.4.7] |
Anticoagulants (Blood Thinners) | Warfarin, Heparin [1.4.5] | Can cause telogen effluvium. |
Certain Arthritis Drugs (DMARDs) | Methotrexate, Leflunomide (Arava) [1.3.5] | 1-3% for Methotrexate, up to 10% for Leflunomide [1.3.5] |
Beta-Blockers | Propranolol, Atenolol [1.4.4] | Known to disrupt the hair growth cycle. |
Antidepressants | Various SSRIs and other classes [1.4.4] | Can occur, risk may increase with longer use [1.4.4]. |
Chemotherapy Drugs | Various | High risk of severe anagen effluvium hair loss [1.4.6]. |
What to Do If You Experience Hair Loss
If you are taking meloxicam and notice unusual hair thinning or shedding, it is crucial to take measured steps.
Steps to Take:
- Do Not Stop Your Medication: Never discontinue a prescribed medication without first consulting your doctor [1.6.5]. The health condition being treated with meloxicam is the primary concern, and abruptly stopping treatment can have negative consequences.
- Consult Your Healthcare Provider: Schedule an appointment with the doctor who prescribed the meloxicam. They can help determine if the hair loss is indeed related to the medication or if it stems from another underlying cause, such as a thyroid disorder or nutritional deficiency [1.6.4].
- Discuss Alternatives: Your doctor may be able to lower your dose or switch you to an alternative medication that is less likely to cause this side effect [1.2.5, 1.2.8].
- Be Patient: If the medication is identified as the cause and is stopped or changed, hair regrowth typically begins within a few months [1.2.8]. However, it can take up to a year or more for hair to return to its previous state cosmetically [1.6.4, 1.6.6].
Supporting Hair Health
While waiting for your body to adjust, you can support hair health through proper nutrition. Deficiencies in vitamins and minerals like iron, zinc, and vitamin D can contribute to hair loss [1.6.3]. A balanced diet is key, and your doctor may recommend supplements if a deficiency is identified [1.6.3].
Conclusion
Yes, meloxicam can cause hair loss, but it is considered an uncommon or rare side effect [1.2.3, 1.3.1]. The type of hair loss is typically telogen effluvium, a temporary and reversible shedding that occurs a couple of months after starting the drug. While distressing, this side effect is not permanent for most people [1.2.5, 1.6.5]. If you suspect your medication is causing hair thinning, the most important step is to speak with your healthcare provider to evaluate the cause and discuss the best course of action for your overall health.
For more information from an authoritative source, you can review the FDA's medication guide for Meloxicam [1.7.3].