Avegesic Mechanism of Action

Pharmacology: Pharmacodynamics: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agent (M; locomotor system).
Meloxicam is a non- steroidal anti- inflammatory drug (NSAID) of the oxicam family, with antiinflammatory, analgesic and antipyretic properties. The anti- inflammatory activity of meloxicam has been proven in classical models of inflammation. As with other NSAIDs, its precise mechanism of action remains unknown. However there is at least one common mode of action shared by all NSAIDs (including meloxicam): inhibition of the biosynthesis of prostaglandins, known inflammation mediators.
Pharmacokinetics: The bioavailability of meloxicam following oral administration is on the average 89%.
With the doses of 7.5 and 15 mg, plasma concentrations are proportional to dose: 0.4 to 1.0 mg/lt for 7.5 mg and 0.8 to 2.0 mg/lt for 15 mg, on average (C_min and C_max at steady state).
Meloxicam is very strongly bound to plasma proteins, essentially albumin (99%).
Meloxicam is extensively metabolized, chiefly by oxidation of the methyl radical attached to the thiazolyl ring. Elimination is unchanged form accounts for 3% of the dose. Half of the substance is eliminated in urine and the other half in faeces.
The mean elimination half-life of the order of 20 hours.
Steady state is reached in 5 days.
In terminal renal failure, the volume of distribution is increased and a daily dose of 7.5 mg must not be exceeded.
Plasma clearance is on average 8 ml/min. Clearance is decreased in the elderly. Volume of distribution is low, on average 11 litres. Inter individual variation is the order of 30 - 40%.