Uses of Piroxicam
Piroxicam helps to reduce pain and swelling affecting the joints caused by various musculoskeletal disorders like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and acute gout. It is also used to relive postoperative pain, and primary dysmenorrhea.
Therapeutic Category
Piroxicam: Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs.
How Piroxicam works
Piroxicam exerts its anti-inflammatory actions by inhibiting the enzyme cyclooxygenase thereby, blocking the release of prostaglandins (a substance produced during injury and inflammation causing pain, swelling and fever). Thus, helps to alleviate inflammation, relive pain and reduce fever.
Common side effects of Piroxicam
- dizziness or drowsiness
- increase in blood sugar levels
- ringing in the ears
- weight gain
- nausea, vomiting, constipation, abdominal pain, indigestion, flatulence, diarrhea
- anorexia (loss of appetite)
- headache
- itching, skin rash
When to consult your doctor
Consult your doctor:
- in case of accidental overdosage
- if you experience any sign of bleeding in the stomach or intestines, such as vomiting blood, passing black or bloodstained stools
- if you experience allergic reactions such as rash or itching, swelling of face, lips, or eye lids causing sudden wheeziness, difficulty in breathing, fever
- If you experience a rash, blistering or peeling of the skin, mouth, eyes or genitals
- If you experience signs of hepatitis or other liver problems such as yellowing of the skin and the whites of your eyes (jaundice)
- If you experience signs of heart attack (chest pain) and stroke
Health Tips for Piroxicam
- Piroxicam is generally recommended to take it with food or milk to reduce the risk of stomach upset, indigestion, or heartburn
- Avoid alcohol consumption while taking Piroxicam as it can increase the risk of stomach bleeding and other gastrointestinal side effects