Lethargy after Meloxicam (Metacam) in dogs

1,571 reports to the FDA describe lethargy in dogs given Meloxicam. That is 19% of all reports for this medicine, compared with 11% across reports for all dog medicines, so it is reported unusually often with this medicine.

1,571Reports
38%Marked serious
18%Recovered
25%Died or euthanised
3 daysTypical onset
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How soon it started

Same day
161 22%
1–2 days
163 22%
3–7 days
146 20%
1–4 weeks
114 16%
Over a month
141 19%

How the animals did

Recovered
264 17%
Recovered with lasting effects
12 0.8%
Still unwell when reported
198 13%
Died
281 18%
Euthanised
115 7.3%
Not known
701 45%

Problems reported at the same time

Age of the animals

Under 1 year
170
1–3 years
234
4–7 years
324
8–11 years
412
12+ years
392

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 lethargy in dogs?
1,571 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).

Lethargy with similar medicines

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