Piroxicam

Please note: these are basic guidelines, refer to your doctor for a professional medical opinion.

Popular brand names:

Brexecam, Pixicam, Xycam

Drug group:

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug and drug for gout

Prescription needed?

Yes

What does it do?

Piroxicam is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to treat:

• Chronic inflammatory conditions - osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, acute gout, ankylosing spondylitis
• Acute pain - sports injuries, tendonitis and bursitis, and following minor surgery

How does it work?

Piroxicam reduces pain, stiffness, and inflammation by interfering with the inflammatory pathway.

How should it be used?

• Piroxicam only needs to be taken once daily
• It should be taken with food or plenty of water
• Take the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration (to reduce the risk of side effects)

What is the typical dosage?

Your doctor will recommend a dosage tailored to your need, but typically:

Total daily dose for adults: 10–20mg, taken 1–3 x daily

How quickly will it start to work?

Pain relief in 3–4 hours, full anti-inflammatory effect develops over 2–4 weeks (arthritis) or 4–5 days (gout)         
  

How long will the effects last?

Up to 2 days, some effect may last for 7–10 days   
                     

When should I stop using it?

Short-term pain relief: can be safely stopped as soon as no longer needed.

Long-term treatment of arthritis: do not stop the drug without consulting your doctor.

Is it safe for prolonged use?

Long-term use can increase the risk of bleeding from the stomach or bowel, as well as heart attack or stroke.

What are the possible side effects?

The following have been reported:

• More common: heartburn, indigestion, nausea, vomiting (Piroxicam carries the highest risk of gastrointestinal side effects compared to other NSAIDs)
• Less common: headache, dizziness, drowsiness, swelling of the legs/feet, weight gain
• Report to your doctor before taking your next dose if you experience: rash, itching, wheezing, breathlessness, black/blood-stained faeces

What other considerations are important?

Dosage may be adjusted by your doctor under certain conditions.

• Certain health problems: liver/kidney/heart problems, high blood pressure, peptic ulcer, oesophagitis, acid indigestion, porphyria, asthma, allergy to aspirin or other NSAIDs
• Other medicines: other NSAIDs, corticosteroids, oral anticoagulants, lithium, methotrexate, antihypertensive drugs, diuretics, ciprofloxacin/norfloxacin/ofloxacin, ritonavir
• Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Not recommended in pregnancy, normal doses are unlikely to affect the breastfed baby
• Children: Not recommended <6 years, reduced doses for older children
• Over 60: Reduced dose may be necessary, increased risk of side effects
• Driving and hazardous work: Caution, the drug can cause dizziness
• Alcohol: Avoid, increased risk of stomach disorders
• Surgery and general anaesthetics: Piroxicam may prolong bleeding, discuss with your doctor or dentist before any surgery