Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Piroxicam is indicated for the alleviation of pain, tenderness, swelling, and stiffness associated with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Piroxicam belongs to a class of pharmaceuticals known as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Its mechanism of action involves inhibiting the synthesis of prostaglandins, a pain, fever, and inflammation-inducing substance produced by the body.
Uses and Dosage
Piroxicam is administered orally in the form of capsules. The typical dosage regimen involves once or twice daily administration, ideally at consistent times throughout the day.
Strictly follow the prescribed dosage of piroxicam without exceeding or reducing it, and refrain from increasing the frequency of administration beyond the doctor’s instructions.
While piroxicam helps manage the symptoms, it does not provide a cure for the underlying condition. The full therapeutic effects of piroxicam may become evident after a period of 8 to 12 weeks or possibly longer.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- diarrhea
- constipation
- gas
- headache
- dizziness
- ringing in the ears
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- vision problems
- unexplained weight gain
- shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- swelling in the abdomen, ankles, feet, or legs
- fever
- blisters
- joint pain
- rash
- itching
- hives
- swelling of the eyes, face, lips, tongue, throat, arms, or hands
- difficulty breathing or swallowing
- hoarseness
- pale skin
- fast heartbeat
- excessive tiredness
- unusual bleeding or bruising
- lack of energy
- upset stomach
- loss of appetite
- pain in the upper right part of the stomach
- flu-like symptoms
- yellowing of the skin or eyes
- cloudy, discolored, or bloody urine
- back pain
- difficult or painful urination
Caution
Prior to initiating piroxicam treatment, inform your healthcare provider or pharmacist about any known allergies to piroxicam, aspirin, other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen, naproxen, or celecoxib, or any other allergies you may have. This product may contain inactive ingredients that can potentially trigger allergic reactions or other complications.
Before commencing treatment, disclose your medical history to your healthcare provider or pharmacist, particularly if you have a history of asthma, blood disorders, nasal polyps, heart disease, high blood pressure, liver disease, stroke, or throat/stomach/intestinal issues.
The use of NSAID medications, including piroxicam, can sometimes lead to kidney problems. The risk of experiencing such problems may be higher if you are dehydrated, have heart failure or kidney disease, are an older adult, or are taking specific medications (refer to the Drug Interactions section for more details). Stay adequately hydrated as directed by your doctor and promptly notify them of any changes in urine output.
Piroxicam may induce dizziness or drowsiness. The consumption of alcohol or marijuana can exacerbate these effects. Avoid driving, operating machinery, or engaging in tasks that require alertness until you can safely perform them.
This medication has the potential to cause stomach bleeding. Regular consumption of alcohol and tobacco, especially when combined with piroxicam, may heighten the risk of stomach bleeding. Limit alcohol intake and cease smoking.
Piroxicam can increase sensitivity to sunlight. Limit your exposure to the sun, avoid tanning booths and sunlamps, and use sunscreen and protective clothing when outdoors. Notify your doctor immediately if you experience sunburn or develop skin blisters or redness.
Elderly individuals may have an increased risk of stomach/intestinal bleeding, kidney problems, heart attack, and stroke when using this medication.
For women of childbearing age, have a discussion with your doctor regarding the benefits and risks of using this medication. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Piroxicam can potentially harm an unborn baby and cause complications during labor and delivery. Its use is not recommended from 20 weeks of pregnancy until delivery. If your doctor determines that piroxicam is necessary between 20 and 30 weeks of pregnancy, the lowest effective dose should be used for the shortest duration possible. This medication should not be used after 30 weeks of pregnancy.
Piroxicam can pass into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding while using this medication.
Form and Strength
Feldene is available in the following forms and strengths:
-
Feldene capsule:
- 10mg
- 20mg
-
piroxicam capsule:
- 10mg
- 20mg
FAQ
Does Feldene make you sleepy?
As with other NSAID medicines, Feldene may cause dizziness, drowsiness or blurred vision.
How long does it take Feldene to work?
Usually, you’ll need to take it for about 2 weeks to know whether it’s working for you or not. And studies show it can take 2 to 3 months for you to feel the full benefits of this medication in relieving your pain.
Resources
- https://www.news-medical.net/drugs/Feldene-and-Feldene-D.aspx#:~:text=As%20with%20other%20NSAID%20medicines,dizziness%2C%20drowsiness%20or%20blurred%20vision
- https://www.goodrx.com/piroxicam/what-is#faqs
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a684045.html
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-10963/feldene-oral/details
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/piroxicam-oral-route/description/drg-20069771
- https://www.drugs.com/mtm/feldene.html
