Piroxicam: what it is, how to use it safely

Piroxicam is a prescription NSAID used for joint pain, osteoarthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis. It reduces inflammation and pain by blocking prostaglandin production. Because it stays in the body longer than ibuprofen, many patients take it once a day.

Typical adult doses run from 10 mg to 20 mg daily, but only follow the dose your doctor prescribes. Take piroxicam with food or milk to lower stomach upset. Don’t crush or chew any sustained-release forms.

What to watch for

Serious side effects can happen. Watch for black or bloody stools, severe stomach pain, sudden weakness, chest pain, shortness of breath, or new leg swelling. Stop the drug and contact a doctor immediately if you notice these symptoms.

Common side effects include nausea, dizziness, headache, and mild stomach discomfort. Older adults face higher risk of bleeding and kidney problems. If you feel faint or unusually tired, get medical advice.

Interactions and precautions

Piroxicam interacts with blood thinners (warfarin), ACE inhibitors, diuretics, lithium, and methotrexate. Combining with other NSAIDs or corticosteroids can raise the risk of GI bleeding. Tell your doctor about all medicines and supplements you take.

People with a history of stomach ulcers, bleeding disorders, severe heart disease, or advanced kidney or liver disease should avoid piroxicam unless a doctor says it’s safe. Avoid alcohol while taking it — alcohol increases stomach bleeding risk.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding: avoid piroxicam, especially in the third trimester. If you’re pregnant or planning pregnancy, ask your clinician for safer pain options.

Monitoring: your doctor may check kidney function, liver tests, and blood pressure during long-term use. Report any new symptoms right away so adjustments can be made before a problem gets worse.

Short tips for safer use: prefer the lowest effective dose for the shortest time, take it with food, and don’t mix with over-the-counter NSAIDs. Keep follow-up appointments and ask about alternative therapies if you have risk factors.

Alternatives include naproxen, ibuprofen, topical NSAIDs, acetaminophen for some types of pain, and non-drug options like guided exercise and weight loss for arthritis. Your doctor can recommend what fits your situation.

If you ever need quick advice, a pharmacist can point out drug interactions and side effects. For ongoing pain, work with your healthcare team to balance benefits and risks. Piroxicam helps many people, but safe use matters more than taking any pill without a plan.

Storage, refills, and missed doses: store piroxicam at room temperature away from moisture and heat. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless the next dose is near; don’t double up. Many insurers cover generic piroxicam, which cuts cost. If price is an issue, ask the pharmacy for a generic or a mail-order option. Report side effects to your prescribing doctor and local drug safety authority — reporting helps spot rare problems early. Keep a list of current medicines and show it at every clinic or ER visit.

Ask questions — a clear plan reduces risk.