What kind of pill is zc 25?: A Comprehensive Guide to Meloxicam

October 5, 2025 •

2 min read

The round, yellow pill with the imprint ZC 25 is definitively identified as Meloxicam, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) manufactured by Zydus Pharmaceuticals. A 2023 review indicates that NSAIDs like meloxicam may be associated with an increased risk of serious cardiovascular and gastrointestinal events, highlighting the importance of understanding this medication's profile.

Quick Summary

The ZC 25 pill is Meloxicam, a prescription NSAID for managing pain and inflammation from conditions like arthritis. Important safety information includes boxed warnings about potential cardiovascular and gastrointestinal risks.

Key Points

Identification: A yellow, round pill with the imprint 'ZC 25' is identified as Meloxicam, a prescription NSAID manufactured by Zydus Pharmaceuticals.
Primary Use: It is prescribed for the relief of pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and certain cases of juvenile rheumatoid arthritis.
Serious Warnings: The FDA has issued boxed warnings for meloxicam concerning an increased risk of serious cardiovascular events (heart attack, stroke) and serious gastrointestinal complications (bleeding, ulcers).
Drug Interactions: Meloxicam can interact negatively with other medications, including blood thinners, certain antidepressants, and blood pressure medication, increasing the risk of adverse effects.
Not a Narcotic: Meloxicam is not a controlled substance, narcotic, or opioid, distinguishing it from stronger, more addictive pain relievers.
Side Effects: Common side effects include diarrhea, nausea, headache, and dizziness, while serious side effects can affect the liver, kidneys, and heart.

The Medical Identity of ZC 25

The pill with the imprint 'ZC 25' is identified as Meloxicam. This round, yellow tablet with a flat beveled edge is marked with 'ZC' and '25' on one side and is manufactured by Zydus Pharmaceuticals. Meloxicam is an NSAID used for its pain-relieving, fever-reducing, and anti-inflammatory effects. It is not a narcotic and does not pose the same risk of addiction as opioids. Meloxicam works by inhibiting COX enzymes involved in producing inflammatory prostaglandins, with a preference for COX-2 at lower doses.

Primary Medical Uses of Meloxicam

Meloxicam, including the ZC 25 formulation, is a prescription medication for managing symptoms of inflammatory and painful conditions, helping to reduce stiffness, swelling, and joint pain without curing the underlying disease. It is used for conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. It is typically prescribed to be taken once daily.

Important Safety Information and Side Effects

Meloxicam carries risks and potential adverse effects. The FDA requires boxed warnings for meloxicam due to serious cardiovascular and gastrointestinal risks. Common side effects include diarrhea, nausea, headache, and dizziness. More serious side effects require immediate medical attention. For detailed information on warnings, uses, side effects, and dosage, refer to DailyMed.

Comparison of Meloxicam (ZC 25) to Other NSAIDs

NSAIDs vary in properties and risks. For a comparison table of Meloxicam, Ibuprofen, and Naproxen, including drug class, COX selectivity, GI and cardiovascular risk, and duration of action, see DailyMed.

Drug Interactions to Monitor

Inform your doctor about all medications you are taking. For information on significant interactions with blood thinners, blood pressure medications, antidepressants, and other NSAIDs, see DailyMed.

Conclusion

In summary, the pill with the imprint zc 25 is a Meloxicam tablet, a prescription NSAID from Zydus Pharmaceuticals used to treat arthritis-related pain and inflammation. It is not a narcotic. Meloxicam carries serious risks, including potential cardiovascular and gastrointestinal complications as highlighted by FDA boxed warnings. Patients must strictly follow their doctor's instructions and be aware of potential side effects and drug interactions. Consult a healthcare provider regularly, especially if on long-term treatment or with pre-existing health conditions.

This information is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional regarding your specific medical needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

The ZC 25 pill, which contains Meloxicam, is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) primarily used to reduce pain, inflammation, and stiffness caused by conditions like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

No, Meloxicam is not a narcotic or controlled substance. It is a prescription-only NSAID that does not have the addictive properties of opioids.

Common side effects include diarrhea, nausea, headaches, dizziness, and abdominal pain. Taking the medication with food can help mitigate some stomach-related side effects.

Yes, meloxicam carries boxed warnings from the FDA regarding serious cardiovascular thrombotic events (like heart attack and stroke) and serious gastrointestinal adverse events (like bleeding and ulceration).

It is generally not recommended to take meloxicam with other NSAIDs, including ibuprofen or naproxen, as this increases the risk of serious GI side effects without adding therapeutic benefit.

Meloxicam is typically taken once daily. You should always follow your doctor's prescribed dosage and duration. Taking it with food or milk can help reduce stomach upset.

Meloxicam should not be taken by patients with known hypersensitivity to the drug, a history of asthma or allergic reactions to aspirin or other NSAIDs, or those who have recently had heart bypass (CABG) surgery. It should also be used cautiously in patients with a history of heart disease, GI issues, or kidney problems.