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Does Meloxicam make kidney stones worse?

Stone Fighter #17A9FEStone Fighter #17A9FEJun 13, 2026👁️ 987❤️ 147
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I’m on Meloxicam for my arthritis and I’m in the middle of a bad stone flare-up right now. I’ve been trying to drink way more water but things aren’t getting better, so I’m trying to figure out if something I’m doing or taking might be making it worse.

My main question is — can long-term Meloxicam use make kidney stones or kidney function worse?

Thanks in advance for any help!

Comments (2)

Stone Fighter #55983EStone Fighter #55983EMay 5, 2026

Not for the kidney stones themselves, but definitely yes when it comes to kidney function. Long-term use of NSAIDs and COX-2 inhibitors like Meloxicam can lead to chronic kidney disease or worsen existing kidney issues.

Stone Fighter6 #8265BBStone Fighter6 #8265BBMay 5, 2026

Appreciate it!

Stone Fighter #97CA31Stone Fighter #97CA31May 5, 2026

NSAIDs like Meloxicam can actually reduce kidney function and bump up your stone risk by slowing down urine flow and messing with how your kidneys handle sodium and fluid balance. You really need to bring this up with your urologist specifically though, because stopping or switching your pain meds in the middle of a flare is something that needs their input, not the internet’s. What kind of stones are you dealing with? And have you had any recent imaging to tell if this flare is from a new st...

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