Piroxicam: Uses, Dosage, and Side Effects
Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr R Suneel, Orthopedics
Piroxicam is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) commonly used to relieve pain and inflammation in conditions like arthritis. Piroxicam tablets are often prescribed for osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, helping reduce joint stiffness and swelling.
The piroxicam 20 mg dosage is typical for managing chronic pain. Piroxicam gel is used for the topical relief of localised pain. Like all medications, piroxicam side effects may include stomach upset, dizziness, or skin reactions, so it'should be taken under medical supervision.
Piroxicam is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used for the treatment of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis pain and inflammation. The medication is available as the brand-name drug called Feldene. NSAIDs are non-narcotic pain relievers that can be used for several conditions, like:
They function by lowering prostaglandin levels, which are the chemicals that cause pain, fever, and inflammation. Piroxicam inhibits the enzyme that produces prostaglandins (cyclooxygenase), resulting in lower prostaglandin concentrations.
Piroxicam tablet uses are focused on long-term management of arthritis symptoms such as pain, stiffness, and joint swelling. Reducing these symptoms allows you to participate in more of your everyday activities. This drug belongs to the class of drugs called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID).
It works by preventing the development of certain natural substances that cause inflammation in your body. In some cases, piroxicam dispersible tablets are used for quicker relief in acute musculoskeletal pain or arthritis flares, particularly when ease of swallowing or fast onset is needed.
What pain does piroxicam take away? It is effective for reducing pain caused by inflammatory conditions like arthritis, gout, post-operative discomfort, and soft tissue injuries.
Piroxicam works by blocking enzymes called cyclooxygenase (COX-1 and COX-2), which are involved in the production of prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are responsible for causing pain, swelling, and fever. By reducing these chemicals, piroxicam helps ease inflammation and pain. It does not directly affect hormones or the nervous system, but indirectly impacts pain signalling through reduced prostaglandin levels.
Adult dosage (ages 18 years and older): 20 mg should be taken once daily or 10 mg twice daily.
Adult dosage (ages 18 years and older): 20 mg should be taken once daily or 10 mg twice daily.
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as possible. If it's time for your next dose, then wait and take a single dose at your regular time. Never try to make up for missed doses by taking two at once. This can lead to some severe consequences.
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Get Second OpinionIf you are taking too much medication, there is a chance of getting some severe symptoms like fatigue , drowsiness, nausea, vomiting , stomach pain, and stomach bleeding. In some rare cases, taking too many drugs can lead to allergic reactions, high blood pressure, kidney failure , trouble breathing , and coma. Talk to your doctor immediately if you are having any serious medical conditions.
Piroxicam is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that inhibits COX enzymes, reducing pain and inflammation. However, this inhibition also decreases protective stomach lining and affects kidney blood flow, leading to side effects like ulcers or kidney issues.
Piroxicam can cause some serious side effects and can lead to some serious health problems. If you are facing any of the above serious side effects, talk with your doctor.
Before taking Piroxicam, talk with your doctor if you are allergic to it or any other medications. The drug may contain some inactive ingredients that can cause serious allergic reactions or other serious problems. Before using any drug, consult with your doctor if you have any medical history such as:
Talk to your doctor if you are taking any prescriptions, non-prescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. If you have or have ever had asthma, tell your doctor, particularly if you still have a stuffy or runny nose, nasal polyps (swelling of the nose lining), heart failure, swelling of the hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs, or liver or kidney disease.
Asthma attacks can be triggered by piroxicam. It should not be used if you have asthma that is caused by aspirin. It's possible that it has the same impact as aspirin.
This drug increases the chances of bleeding in your stomach or intestines. If you take piroxicam and have a history of ulcers, abdomen, or intestinal bleeding, then try to avoid it for a specific period.
If you take the medication for a long time, it can damage your kidneys. This medication'should not be used if you have extreme kidney disease.
The drug has the potential to trigger or exacerbate elevated blood pressure. When taking piroxicam, it is recommended that you monitor your blood pressure frequently.
The drug should not be taken during the third trimester of pregnancy. It has the potential to endanger your pregnancy. If you're pregnant or planning to become pregnant, speak to your doctor.
The drug can pass through your breast milk and cause side effects in a breastfed infant. Breastfeeding is not advised while taking this drug.Piroxicam contraindications include a history of asthma triggered by NSAIDs, active peptic ulcer, gastrointestinal bleeding, or severe renal or hepatic impairment.
Piroxicam can interact with several medications, which may increase the risk of side effects or reduce the effectiveness of either drug. It is essential to inform your doctor about all the medications you are currently taking before starting piroxicam.
Direct contact with heat, air, and light may damage your medicines. Exposure to medicine may cause some harmful effects. The medicine must be kept in a safe place and out of children s reach.
Mainly the drug should be kept at room temperature between 68ºF and 77ºF (20ºC and 25ºC).
Before taking Piroxicam, consult your doctor. In case you face any problems or get any side effects after taking Piroxicam, rush immediately to your nearby hospital or consult your doctor for better treatment. Carry your medications always in your bag while traveling to avoid any immediate emergencies. Follow your prescription and follow your doctor's advice whenever you take Piroxicam.
| Piroxicam | Paracetamol |
|---|---|
| Piroxicam is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to treat pain and inflammation in osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. | Paracetamol is a commonly used pain reliever and fever reducer for headaches, muscle aches, back pain, and fevers. |
| It helps relieve joint stiffness, swelling, and discomfort, improving daily mobility. | Used to treat conditions such as headaches, menstrual cramps, toothaches, backaches, colds, and fever. |
| Common Side Effects: Rash, headaches, dizziness, drowsiness, abdominal pain | Common Side Effects: Nausea, vomiting, swelling, mild pain |

Still have questions? Speak with our experts now!
040-68334455Yes, piroxicam is considered a strong nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to relieve pain and inflammation associated with various conditions like arthritis.
The effectiveness of piroxicam versus diclofenac can vary depending on the individual and the specific condition being treated. Both are effective NSAIDs, but one may be preferred over the other based on a patient's response and tolerance.
Piroxicam is a non-selective NSAID that inhibits both COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes, which are involved in the inflammatory process.
Individuals with a history of allergic reactions to NSAIDs, peptic ulcer disease, gastrointestinal bleeding, severe heart failure, kidney disease, or liver disease should avoid using piroxicam. It is also contraindicated in late pregnancy.
Piroxicam, like other NSAIDs, can potentially affect kidney function, especially with long-term use or in individuals with pre-existing kidney conditions. Regular monitoring by a healthcare provider is recommended.
Piroxicam can cause liver damage in rare cases. It's important to monitor liver function during long-term use and consult a healthcare provider if you have any liver conditions.
Both aceclofenac and piroxicam are effective NSAIDs. The choice between them depends on individual patient response, tolerance, and specific condition being treated. A healthcare provider can determine which is more suitable for a particular patient.
No, piroxicam is not a steroid. It is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID).
Piroxicam and paracetamol (acetaminophen) have different mechanisms of action. Piroxicam is more effective for reducing inflammation and pain associated with conditions like arthritis, while paracetamol is typically used for mild to moderate pain and fever. The choice depends on the specific condition and patient needs.
No, piroxicam is not a muscle relaxant. It is an NSAID used to reduce pain and inflammation.
Disclaimer: The information provided is accurate and up-to-date to the best of our knowledge. However, it should not be considered a substitute for medical advice or consultation. We do not guarantee its completeness or accuracy. The absence of specific warnings does not mean a medicine is safe for all users. We are not responsible for any outcomes based on this information and strongly recommend consulting a doctor for any medical concerns or questions.