Feldene Medication - Uses & Side Effects

PIROXICAM (Feldene®) is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It helps relieves pain and inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Generic piroxicam capsules are available. Feldene, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, is used to relieve the inflammation, swelling, stiffness, and joint pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis (the most common form of arthritis). It is prescribed both for sudden flare-ups and for long-term treatment. Piroxicam is in a class of drugs called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Piroxicam works by reducing hormones that cause inflammation and pain in the body.

Feldene Dosage

• The usual dose is 20 milligrams a day in one dose. Your doctor may want you to divide this dose into smaller ones. You will not feel Feldene's full effects for 7 to 12 days, although some relief of symptoms will start to occur soon after you take Feldene.

Uses of Feldene

• Piroxicam is used to reduce the pain, inflammation, and stiffness caused by rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.
• Piroxicam may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
• This medication may also be used to treat other conditions including gouty arthritis, arthritis of the spine, and muscle injuries.

Side Effects of Feldene

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Feldene. Side effects may include:

• Abdominal pain or discomfort
• anemia
• constipation
• diarrhea
• dizziness
• fluid retention
• gas
• general feeling of ill health
• headache
• heartburn
• itching
• kidney problems
• loss of appetite
• nausea
• rash
• ringing in ears
• sleepiness
• stomach ulcers or bleeding
• stomach upset
• vertigo
• vomiting

Warnings and precautions before taking Feldene:

• The chances that Feldene will cause a stomach ulcer or bleeding are dramatically higher if you've had such problems previously. Severe stomach reactions are also more likely among older adults, those in poor health, smokers, heavy drinkers, and people taking steroids or blood thinners.
• If you have heart disease, or high blood pressure, or other conditions that cause fluid retention, use Feldene with caution. Feldene can increase water retention.
• Feldene has been known to damage the kidneys, and is not recommended for people with advanced kidney disease. Feldene can also cause liver damage. If you develop warning signs of liver dysfunction such as fatigue, itchiness, yellow skin or eyes, a flu-like feeling, and pain in the upper right abdomen, stop taking Feldene and see your doctor immediately.
• Drugs such as Feldene may cause eye disturbances in some people. If you develop visual problems, notify your eye doctor.
• Feldene capsules, dispersible tablets and melt tablets should be taken with or after food.
• This drug may infrequently cause serious (rarely fatal) bleeding from the stomach or intestines. Also, related drugs rarely have caused blood clots to form, resulting in heart attacks and strokes. This medication might also rarely cause similar problems. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about the benefits and risks of treatment, as well as other possible medication choices.

Drug Interaction :- If Feldene is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Feldene with the following:

• Anticoagulants (blood thinners such as Coumadin)
  
• Aspirin
  
• Blood pressure medications known as ACE inhibitors, including Accupril, Altace, Mavik,
• Prinivil, and Zestril
  
• Furosemide (Lasix)
  
• Lithium (Lithobid, Lithonate)
  
• Methotrexate (Rheumatrex)

Overdose

Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of a piroxicam overdose include dizziness, headache, ringing in the ears, blurred vision, seizures, sweating, numbness or tingling, little or no urine production, and slow breathing.

• Drowsiness
• nausea
• stomach pain
• vomiting