Feldene

Common Name: piroxicam

How does Feldene work?

Piroxicam belongs to the class of medications called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs). It is used to relieve the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, menstrual cramps, and a condition called ankylosing spondylitis. It works by reducing pain, swelling, and inflammation. Your doctor may choose to use this medication for conditions other than the ones listed here. If you're unsure why you are taking this medication, contact your doctor.

How should I use Feldene?

The recommended adult dose of piroxicam ranges from 10 mg to 20 mg daily depending on needs and circumstances. The medication should be taken with or after food to avoid stomach upset. The usual maximum daily dose is 20 mg. In the case of menstrual cramps, an initial dose of 40 mg is sometimes taken followed by daily doses of 20 mg for three to four days. Piroxicam suppositories are also an alternative. Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor. It is very important that this medication be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose of this medication, take it as soon as you remember it. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and carry on with your regular schedule. Do not double-up on doses.

What form(s) does Feldene come in?

Feldene® is available in capsule (10 mg and 20 mg) and suppository form. Capsules: 10 mg: Each maroon and blue, opaque, hard gelatin capsule, printed with "Feldene" and "Pfizer", contains piroxicam 10 mg. 20 mg: Each maroon, opaque, hard gelatin capsule, printed with "Feldene" and "Pfizer", contains piroxican 20 mg. Nonmedicinal ingredients: cornstarch, lactose, and magnesium stearate/sodium lauryl sulfate; capsule shell: gelatin, silicon dioxide, titanium dioxide, FD&C Red No. 3, and FD&C Blue No. 1. This medication does not contain tartrazine. Suppositories: Each white-to-off-white, torpedo-shaped suppository contains piroxicam 20 mg. Nonmedicinal ingredients: semisynthetic glycerides, microcrystalline wax, and propyl gallate.

What should I NOT take with Feldene?

Piroxicam should not be used by anyone who: currently has or recently had an inflammatory disease of the stomach and intestines such as stomach or intestinal ulcer or ulcerative colitis is currently taking other NSAIDs is or may be allergic to piroxicam or any of the ingredients of the medication has had an allergic reaction to ASA or any other anti-inflammatory medications Piroxicam suppositories should not be used by anyone who: has any inflammatory lesions of the rectum or anus has recently had rectal or anal bleeding

Are there any other precautions or warnings for Feldene?

Fluid and electrolyte balance: Fluid retention and edema have been reported with use of this medication. Piroxicam should be used with caution by anyone who: has certain heart conditions (e.g., congestive heart failure) has high blood pressure has kidney disease or reduced kidney function is recovering from a surgical operation under general anesthesia has any other condition that might lead to fluid retention There is a risk of high blood potassium with NSAID treatment. People most at risk are seniors; those having conditions such as diabetes or kidney failure; and those taking beta-adrenergic blockers, angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, or some diuretics (water pills). Gastrointestinal: Stomach ulcers, perforation, and bleeding from the stomach have been known to occur during therapy with piroxicam. These complications can occur at any time, and are sometimes severe enough to require immediate medical attention. The risk of ulcers and bleeding are increased in people taking higher doses of piroxicam for longer periods of time. Piroxicam should be taken under close medical supervision by people prone to irritation of the stomach and intestines, particularly those who have had a stomach ulcer, bloody stools, or diverticulosis or other inflammatory disease of the stomach or intestines (such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease). In these cases, your doctor must weigh the benefits of treatment against the possible risks. Stop taking the medication and contact your doctor immediately if you experience symptoms or signs suggestive of stomach ulcers or bleeding in the stomach (black, tarry stools). These reactions can occur at any time during treatment without warning. Kidney function: Long-term use of piroxicam may lead to a higher risk of reduced kidney function. This is most common for people who already have kidney disease, liver disease, or heart failure; for people who take diuretics (water pills); and for seniors. Occupational hazards: Headaches, sometimes accompanied by dizziness or lightheadedness, may occur during treatment with piroxicam. (These headaches usually occur early in the treatment.) Although the severity of these effects rarely requires the therapy to be stopped, piroxicam should be discontinued if the headaches persist despite dose reduction. Avoid operating motor vehicles and doing other potentially hazardous activities until you determine the effect this medication has on you. Pregnancy: This medication is not recommended for use during pregnancy as its safety has not been established. Breast-feeding: This medication should not be used by nursing mothers. Children: Naproxen is not recommended for children under the age of 16 years. The safety, effectiveness, and dosages of the medication for this age group have not been established. Seniors: Seniors appear to have a higher risk of side effects. They should use the owest effective dosage under close medical supervision.