Metacam Injection – Veterinary Anti-Inflammatory & Pain Relief

Metacam Injection is a prescription non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) formulated for dogs, cats, horses, and livestock to relieve pain, inflammation, and fever associated with musculoskeletal disorders, soft tissue injuries, and post-operative recovery. Its active ingredient is meloxicam, a selective COX-2 inhibitor that helps control inflammation while reducing gastrointestinal side effects compared to non-selective NSAIDs.

Composition

Active ingredient: Meloxicam

Common strengths: 5 mg/mL, 20 mg/mL

Formulation: Clear, yellow injectable solution

Packaging: Multi-dose vials (commonly 10 mL, 20 mL, 50 mL, 100 mL)

Mechanism of Action

Metacam works by:

Inhibiting the cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) enzyme involved in prostaglandin production

Reducing pain, swelling, and inflammation in joints, muscles, and connective tissues

Lowering fever in systemic or localized infections

Indications & Veterinary Uses

Metacam Injection is commonly prescribed for:

Osteoarthritis pain management in dogs and horses

Musculoskeletal disorders (lameness, sprains, tendonitis, joint injuries)

Colic-related pain in horses

Post-operative pain relief after orthopedic or soft tissue surgery

Inflammatory conditions in livestock (mastitis, respiratory infections)

Dosage & Administration

(Always follow a veterinarian’s prescription; doses may vary by species and condition)

Dogs:

• Single SC injection of 0.2 mg meloxicam/kg body weight

Cats:

• Single SC injection of 0.3 mg meloxicam/kg body weight (often for post-operative use only)

Horses:

• IV injection of 0.6 mg meloxicam/kg body weight once daily

Cattle:

• SC or IV injection of 0.5 mg meloxicam/kg body weight for acute respiratory disease, mastitis, or diarrhea

Key Benefits

Rapid pain relief and reduction of inflammation

Improved mobility in arthritic or injured animals

Versatile use across multiple species

Once-daily dosing for convenience in most cases

Proven safety profile when used as directed

Possible Side Effects

Gastrointestinal upset (vomiting, diarrhea, appetite loss)

Rare kidney or liver function changes

Injection site reactions

Important: Avoid in dehydrated, hypovolemic, or NSAID-sensitive animals

Contraindications & Warnings

Do not use in animals with gastric ulcers, bleeding disorders, or severe heart, liver, or kidney disease

Avoid use with other NSAIDs or corticosteroids

Pregnant or lactating animals – use only under veterinary supervision

Storage & Handling

Store at room temperature (below 25 °C)

Protect from light

Keep out of reach of children

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