Elevated amylase after Meloxicam (Metacam) in dogs

109 reports to the FDA describe elevated amylase in dogs given Meloxicam. That is 1.3% of all reports for this medicine, compared with 0.3% across reports for all dog medicines, so it is reported unusually often with this medicine.

109Reports
46%Marked serious
3.7%Recovered
33%Died or euthanised
4 daysTypical onset
SponsoredWorried about your pet? Ask a veterinarian online, 24/7

How soon it started

Same day
7 13%
1–2 days
14 25%
3–7 days
13 24%
1–4 weeks
11 20%
Over a month
10 18%

How the animals did

Recovered
4 3.7%
Still unwell when reported
20 18%
Died
23 21%
Euthanised
13 12%
Not known
49 45%

Problems reported at the same time

Age of the animals

Under 1 year
6
1–3 years
12
4–7 years
26
8–11 years
35
12+ years
28

About this medicine

Meloxicam relieves pain and inflammation.

Products with this ingredient include Metacam. The FDA hides brand names in its public data, so these reports cover every product with the same active ingredients.

NSAIDs can affect the stomach, liver and kidneys. Vets usually recommend blood tests before and during long-term use.

Questions owners ask

Can Meloxicam cause elevated amylase in dogs?
109 reports link the two, but a report alone does not prove the medicine was the cause: other illnesses, other medicines or coincidence can be involved. Your vet can judge it for your animal.
How soon after a dose was it reported?
In half of the reports with dates, it started within 4 days of the first dose.
What should I do?
Don't give another dose until you've spoken to your vet, and keep the packaging so you can tell them the product and dose. Your vet can also report it to the FDA (or you can, through the manufacturer or FDA form 1932a).

Elevated amylase with similar medicines

All reported side effects of Meloxicam in dogs · Medicines most reported with elevated amylase