Does Meloxicam Cause Mouth Sores? Unpacking a Potential Side Effect

October 10, 2025 •

3 min read

According to clinical sources, meloxicam can potentially cause oral ulcers as a side effect, although it is not a common adverse reaction. As a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), its effect is linked to the inhibition of prostaglandins, which play a role in protecting mucous membranes. It is important for users to be aware of this possibility, as well as the signs of more serious reactions.

Quick Summary

Meloxicam can potentially cause oral ulcers by inhibiting protective prostaglandins, though this is not a common side effect. Oral irritation differs from rare, life-threatening skin conditions like Stevens-Johnson syndrome, which can also cause severe oral sores.

Key Points

Potential for oral ulcers: Meloxicam, an NSAID, can cause oral ulcers by inhibiting prostaglandins that protect oral and GI mucous membranes.
Not a common side effect: While possible, mouth sores from meloxicam are not among the most frequently reported adverse reactions, and the drug may have fewer GI side effects than non-selective NSAIDs.
Distinguish from severe reactions: It's crucial to differentiate mild oral ulcers from the severe oral and skin symptoms of Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), a rare but serious medical emergency.
Manage symptoms: Taking meloxicam with food, staying hydrated, and using saltwater rinses can help prevent and manage mild mouth sores.
Consult a doctor: Report any persistent or worsening mouth sores to your healthcare provider, and seek immediate help for signs of a severe allergic reaction (fever, blistering, rash).

The Link Between Meloxicam and Mouth Sores

Meloxicam, often known by the brand name Mobic, is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) commonly prescribed for conditions like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. While generally well-tolerated, developing oral ulcers or mouth sores while taking this medication is a known, though infrequent, side effect. Understanding the underlying mechanism and distinguishing between common and rare adverse reactions is crucial for patient safety.

The Pharmacological Mechanism

The most likely mechanism for NSAID-induced oral ulcers is related to the drug's effect on prostaglandins. Meloxicam inhibits cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, which produce prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are essential for protecting the mucous membranes in the mouth, stomach, and intestines. By reducing prostaglandin levels, meloxicam can decrease this protection, making the oral mucosa more vulnerable to irritation and ulcer formation. This process also contributes to more common gastrointestinal side effects of NSAIDs.

Less Common Oral Ulcers vs. Serious Skin Reactions

It's important to distinguish between typical oral ulcers and the severe oral symptoms of serious systemic reactions.

Typical Oral Ulcers

Oral ulcers linked to GI irritation are generally temporary but can be painful. Some sources suggest meloxicam, as a preferential COX-2 inhibitor, might cause fewer GI issues, including oral ulcers, compared to older NSAIDs. For mild ulcers, a doctor may advise continuing the medication.

Severe Skin Reactions (Stevens-Johnson Syndrome)

In rare instances, meloxicam can cause a severe allergic reaction like Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) or Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN). These require immediate medical care and can cause sores in the mouth, throat, nose, eyes, and genital area. SJS/TEN is different because it is accompanied by other systemic symptoms and skin problems.


Feature	Typical Meloxicam-Induced Mouth Sores	Severe Reaction (SJS/TEN)
Cause	Primarily related to irritation from prostaglandin inhibition.	Severe, rare allergic or hypersensitivity reaction.
Onset	Can occur anytime, sometimes associated with GI issues.	Often involves systemic symptoms that progress to skin lesions and blisters.
Severity	Ranges from mild to moderate, can be painful.	Life-threatening; requires immediate medical attention.
Appearance	Resembles standard canker sores or aphthous ulcers.	Accompanied by severe, widespread blistering and peeling skin.
Associated Symptoms	May have corresponding GI issues like heartburn or upset stomach.	Includes fever, flu-like symptoms, swelling of the face and throat, and other severe skin issues.

Managing Mouth Sores from Meloxicam

Strategies to help prevent or manage mouth sores while taking meloxicam should always be discussed with your healthcare provider.

For Prevention:

Take meloxicam with food or milk.
Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest time.
Maintain good oral hygiene.
Stay well-hydrated.

For Symptom Management:

Rinse with a saltwater solution.
Use over-the-counter oral pain gels for temporary relief.
Avoid irritating foods and drinks like hot beverages, spicy or salty foods, and acidic items.
Choose soft, bland foods.

When to Contact a Healthcare Provider

If you develop mouth sores on meloxicam, especially if they are severe, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms, consult a doctor. Seek immediate medical attention if you suspect a serious allergic reaction like SJS/TEN. Symptoms include red, swollen, blistering, or peeling skin; rash; fever; or swelling of the face, tongue, or throat. Your doctor may recommend discontinuing the medication, reducing the dose, or switching to an alternative.

Conclusion: Balancing Benefits and Risks

While meloxicam can cause mouth sores, it is generally considered a less frequent side effect compared to other NSAIDs. The issue stems from the drug's mechanism of inhibiting protective prostaglandins. Mild oral ulcers can often be managed with simple home care and communication with a healthcare provider. However, recognizing the signs of a severe allergic reaction like Stevens-Johnson Syndrome is critically important, as this requires immediate medical intervention. Patients should discuss any concerns with their prescribing physician to weigh the benefits of meloxicam against potential adverse effects.

Disclaimer: This information is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for any health concerns or before making decisions related to your treatment or medication.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, while meloxicam can potentially cause oral ulcers, it is not one of the most common side effects. The risk is generally considered to be lower than with some older, non-selective NSAIDs.

The mechanism is likely related to meloxicam's inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis. Prostaglandins help protect the mucous membranes in the mouth and stomach. When their levels are reduced, the oral lining can become more susceptible to irritation and ulceration.

A typical mouth sore caused by meloxicam is usually localized and linked to irritation. A severe allergic reaction, such as Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS), involves more widespread and severe blistering and peeling of the skin and mucous membranes, often accompanied by flu-like symptoms and fever.

Signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as Stevens-Johnson Syndrome, include red, swollen, or blistering skin, fever, swollen glands, and sores in the mouth, throat, nose, eyes, or genitals. This is a medical emergency that requires immediate help.

You can minimize the risk by taking your medication with food or milk, using the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration necessary, maintaining good oral hygiene, and staying well-hydrated.

If you develop mouth sores, consult your healthcare provider. For mild cases, they may recommend continuing the medication. In more severe or persistent cases, they may advise reducing the dose or switching medications.

Home remedies can include rinsing with warm saltwater, eating soft and bland foods, avoiding spicy or hot beverages, and using over-the-counter oral pain gels.