Movatec (Meloxicam) is used to relieve the pain, tenderness, inflammation (swelling), and stiffness caused by arthritis. It works by decreasing the body's production of prostaglandin, a substance that causes inflammation and pain. This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information. Meloxicam comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken once a day with or without food. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take meloxicam exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor. Your arthritis symptoms should improve within several weeks of beginning meloxicam. If your symptoms do not improve or they worsen, call your doctor. Do not stop taking meloxicam without talking to your doctor. Arthritis symptoms will return if you stop taking meloxicam.