Metacam, known generically as meloxicam, is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) commonly used in veterinary medicine. In cats, injectable Metacam is approved by regulatory bodies like the FDA for a single dose to manage pain and inflammation following surgical procedures such as spaying, neutering, and orthopedic surgeries. This single injection is intended to provide short-term pain relief as cats recover. However, it’s crucial for cat owners to understand that Metacam is not approved for repeated use in cats in the United States, nor are oral formulations approved for feline use at all. Oral meloxicam products are specifically formulated and approved for dogs, not cats.
The use of more than a single dose of injectable Metacam or the administration of oral Metacam to cats is considered extra-label or off-label use. Extra-label drug use refers to using an approved medication in a manner not specified on the drug’s label. While veterinarians are legally permitted to prescribe medications for extra-label uses under certain circumstances, it’s essential to be aware of the potential risks, particularly with Metacam in cats.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued warnings regarding the repeated use of meloxicam in cats due to significant safety concerns. After reviewing numerous reports detailing adverse reactions in cats receiving repeated doses of Metacam, the FDA identified a disturbing trend: sudden kidney failure (acute renal failure) and fatalities. These serious side effects prompted the FDA to request that manufacturers of all meloxicam products include a boxed warning on their labels. This boxed warning serves to highlight the serious risks associated with extra-label use of Metacam in cats, alerting veterinarians and pet owners to exercise extreme caution.
A boxed warning, also sometimes referred to as a “black box warning,” is the most stringent warning issued by the FDA for prescription medications. It emphasizes critical safety information, particularly regarding contraindications or potential side effects that could lead to severe harm or even death. In the context of animal drugs, this warning is intended to provide veterinarians with essential information to weigh the risks and benefits before prescribing, especially when considering extra-label use. A contraindication is a specific situation where a drug should not be used because the potential harm outweighs any possible benefits.
Currently, all meloxicam products, both brand name and generic, carry this boxed warning on their labels. Brand name Metacam products include METACAM Solution for Injection and METACAM Oral Suspension (though remember, the oral suspension is not approved for cats). Generic versions are marketed under various names such as Meloxicam Injection, Meloxidyl, Loxicom, and Meloxicam Solution for Injection. Regardless of the brand or generic name, the boxed warning applies to all of these products.
The boxed warning on meloxicam product labels explicitly states: “Repeated use of meloxicam in cats has been associated with acute renal failure and death. Do not administer additional injectable or oral meloxicam to cats. See Contraindications, Warnings, and Precautions for detailed information.” This clear and direct warning underscores the severity of the risks involved with administering repeated doses of meloxicam to cats.
For cat owners, this information is vital. It is crucial to strictly adhere to your veterinarian’s instructions and only use Metacam in cats exactly as prescribed. If your veterinarian recommends Metacam for your cat, ensure you understand whether it is a single injection for post-operative pain and clarify the dosage and administration. Never administer repeated doses of injectable Metacam or any oral meloxicam product to your cat unless explicitly directed and closely monitored by your veterinarian. Discuss pain management options for your cat with your vet to ensure the safest and most effective approach for your feline companion. Understanding the risks associated with Metacam is essential for responsible pet ownership and ensuring the health and well-being of your cat.
