Anti-inflammatory effects of meloxicam function by inhibiting the prostaglandin synthetase (cyclooxygenase 1 and 2) which results in a decrease of the synthesis of prostaglandins. As prostaglandins are chemicals that contribute to inflammation especially within joints, which leads to the common symptoms of pain, tenderness, and swelling associated with arthritis, inhibition of their synthesis can be associated with the analgesic and antipyretic effects of meloxicam. As a result, inflammation and its accompanying symptoms are reduced. Meloxicam starts to relieve pain about 30 to 60 minutes after administration.