Piroxicam
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About piroxicam
| Type of medicine | Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug |
| Used for | Pain and inflammation in rheumatic disease Juvenile idiopathic arthritis in children over 6 years Other musculoskeletal disorders Acute gout |
| Also called | Feldene Brexidol |
| Available as | Tablet Capsule Liquid |
Piroxicam is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to relieve pain and inflammation.
A substance in the body called cyclo-oxygenase (COX) is involved in the production of various chemicals in the body, including prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are produced in response to injury and certain diseases and conditions, and cause pain, swelling and inflammation.
Piroxicam blocks the action of COX and therefore stops production of these prostaglandins.
Before taking piroxicam
Before taking piroxicam make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:
- If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
- If you have an inherited disorder of protein metabolism called phenylketonuria.
- If you have ever had a reaction after taking another NSAID such as ibuprofen or diclofenac.
- If you suffer from a stomach ulcer or other stomach problems.
- If you suffer from porphyria.
- If you suffer from asthma.
- If you suffer from liver or kidney problems.
- If you suffer from heart problems.
How to take piroxicam
- Take with or after food.
- If you are taking the melt-in-the-mouth tablets, peel back the loose flap at the edge of the packet to reveal a tablet and place the tablet on your tongue - it will melt in a few seconds.
Getting the most from your treatment
- If you experience indigestion after taking piroxicam try taking the next dose with a glass of milk.
Can piroxicam cause problems
Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.
| Common side-effects - these affect less than 1 in 10 people who take this medicine | What can I do if I experience this |
| Feeling or being sick | Eat little and often. Stick to simple foods such as dry toast. If you are sick, drink plenty of liquid. |
| Constipation | Try to eat a well-balanced diet containing plenty of fibre and drink 6 - 8 glasses of water each day |
| Diarrhoea | Drink plenty of water to replace lost fluids |
| Inflammation of the mouth | Speak to your pharmacist who may be be able to recommend a soothing gel |
| Rash, itching | Speak to your pharmacist who may be be able to recommend a soothing cream |
| Difficulty sleeping, drowsiness | Make sure your reactions are normal before driving, operating machinery or doing other jobs which could be dangerous if you were not fully alert |
| Ankle swelling | Raise your legs when at rest. See your doctor as soon as possible. |
Use of suppositories may lead to irritation of the back passage.
Use of the injection may cause a mild reaction at the site of injection.
How to store piroxicam
- Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
- Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
Important information about all medicines
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The authors and editors of this article are employed to create accurate and up to date content reflecting reliable research evidence, guidance and best clinical practice. They are free from any commercial conflicts of interest.
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