Seizures after Meloxicam (Metacam) in dogs

433 reports to the FDA describe seizures in dogs given Meloxicam. That is 5.4% of all reports for this medicine, compared with 4.4% across reports for all dog medicines.

433Reports
46%Marked serious
15%Recovered
31%Died or euthanised
4 daysTypical onset
SponsoredWorried about your pet? Ask a veterinarian online, 24/7

How soon it started

Same day
46 23%
1–2 days
42 21%
3–7 days
29 14%
1–4 weeks
38 19%
Over a month
49 24%

How the animals did

Recovered
63 15%
Recovered with lasting effects
2 0.5%
Still unwell when reported
48 11%
Died
80 18%
Euthanised
54 12%
Not known
186 43%

Problems reported at the same time

Age of the animals

Under 1 year
25
1–3 years
64
4–7 years
83
8–11 years
111
12+ years
134

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 seizures in dogs?
433 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).

Seizures with similar medicines

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