Hyperphosphataemia after Meloxicam (Metacam) in dogs

The FDA has received 310 reports of hyperphosphataemia in dogs after Meloxicam. That is 3.8% of all reports for this medicine, compared with 0.6% across reports for all dog medicines, so it is reported unusually often with this medicine.

310Reports
51%Marked serious
11%Recovered
43%Died or euthanised
3 daysTypical onset
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How soon it started

Same day
24 17%
1–2 days
41 29%
3–7 days
36 26%
1–4 weeks
20 14%
Over a month
20 14%

How the animals did

Recovered
31 10%
Recovered with lasting effects
4 1.3%
Still unwell when reported
30 9.7%
Died
81 26%
Euthanised
51 16%
Not known
113 36%

Problems reported at the same time

Age of the animals

Under 1 year
52
1–3 years
45
4–7 years
62
8–11 years
85
12+ years
63

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 hyperphosphataemia in dogs?
310 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 3 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).

Hyperphosphataemia with similar medicines

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