Piroxicam (By Mouth)

Piroxicam (peer-OX-i-kam)

Treats pain caused by arthritis and other medical problems. Belongs to a class of drugs called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Brand Name(s):

Feldene
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to piroxicam, aspirin, or other pain and arthritis medicines such as Motrin®, Aleve®, Naprosyn®, Clinoril®, or Indocin®. The reaction may have included wheezing or trouble breathing, hives, rash, or swelling in your face.

How to Use This Medicine:

Capsule, Tablet

• Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to use and how often. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
• Swallow this medicine with a full glass of water.
• You may take the medicine with food, milk, or antacids (such as Maalox® or Mylanta®) so it does not upset your stomach.

If a dose is missed:

• If you miss a dose or forget to use your medicine, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to use the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
• Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any leftover medicine after you have finished your treatment. You will also need to throw away old medicine after the expiration date has passed.
• Keep all medicine away from children and never share your medicine with anyone.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• You should not use piroxicam with aspirin or products that contain aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil® or Motrin®), or naproxen (Aleve®).
• Avoid drinking alcohol while you are taking this medicine.
• Make sure your doctor knows if you are taking a blood thinner (such as Coumadin®), diabetes medicine, or a diuretic ("water pills" such as Lasix® or Dyazide®).

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Talk with your doctor before taking this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have heart failure, bleeding problems, liver disease, kidney disease, high blood pressure, or ulcers or other stomach problems.
• Ulcers and stomach bleeding are sometimes caused by this type of medicine. These problems can happen without warning signs. You may need to see your doctor for regular check-ups while taking this medicine.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Severe rash or hives
• Rapid swelling of face or around eyes
• Chest tightness or trouble breathing
• Sore throat or fever
• Unusual bleeding or bruising
• Yellowing of skin or eyes
• Decreased amount of urine
• Severe stomach pain or vomiting blood
• Bloody or black, tarry stools

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Nausea, mild stomach pain
• Indigestion or gas
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Headache
• Swelling of feet or legs or weight gain
• Dizziness or drowsiness
• Ringing or buzzing in the ears
• Blurred vision
• Sensitivity of skin to sunlight

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.