Feldene (piroxicam) is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) prescribed for the management of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. It works by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis, reducing inflammation, pain, and stiffness associated with chronic joint conditions. Feldene is known for its long half-life, allowing for once-daily dosing, which supports consistent therapeutic levels and patient adherence. It is available in capsule form and should be used under strict medical supervision due to potential systemic effects.

Features

• Active ingredient: piroxicam (20 mg per capsule)
• NSAID class; cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibitor
• Once-daily oral dosing regimen
• Bioavailability of approximately 80–90%
• Onset of action within 30–60 minutes; peak plasma concentration in 3–5 hours
• Half-life of approximately 50 hours
• Excreted primarily via urine and feces

Benefits

• Provides sustained anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects for up to 24 hours with a single dose.
• Reduces joint swelling, tenderness, and morning stiffness in arthritic conditions.
• Improves physical function and mobility in patients with chronic joint diseases.
• Supports treatment adherence through convenient once-daily dosing.
• May contribute to improved quality of life by enabling greater daily activity participation.
• Effective as part of a comprehensive management plan including non-pharmacological therapies.

Common use

Feldene is indicated for the symptomatic treatment of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. It is also used off-label for acute gout, ankylosing spondylitis, and other musculoskeletal pain disorders where inflammation is a key component. Its long duration of action makes it suitable for chronic management rather than acute, short-term pain episodes.

Dosage and direction

The recommended dose for adults is 20 mg once daily, taken orally with food or milk to minimize gastrointestinal upset. Dosage may be adjusted based on individual response and tolerability, but should not exceed 20 mg per day. Treatment should begin at the lowest effective dose and be periodically re-evaluated. Use in pediatric patients is not recommended. Do not crush or chew capsules; swallow whole with a full glass of water.

Precautions

• Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration possible to reduce risk of adverse events.
• Monitor renal function and blood pressure periodically during long-term therapy.
• Avoid use in patients with a history of gastrointestinal bleeding or ulceration.
• Caution is advised in elderly patients, who may be more susceptible to NSAID-related renal and GI toxicity.
• Patients should be advised to report any signs of bleeding, edema, or skin reactions promptly.
• Feldene may mask fever and inflammation; careful monitoring is required in patients with active infection.

Contraindications

• Hypersensitivity to piroxicam, aspirin, or other NSAIDs.
• History of asthma, urticaria, or allergic-type reactions after taking NSAIDs.
• Peri-operative pain in the setting of coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery.
• Severe renal impairment or active renal disease.
• Third trimester of pregnancy.
• Active peptic ulcer disease or history of recurrent ulceration/bleeding.

Possible side effects

Common side effects may include:

• Dyspepsia, nausea, abdominal pain
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Dizziness, headache
• Peripheral edema
• Rash

Serious side effects (seek medical attention if experienced):

• Gastrointestinal bleeding or perforation
• Cardiovascular thrombotic events (e.g., myocardial infarction, stroke)
• Severe skin reactions such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome
• Hepatotoxicity (elevated liver enzymes, jaundice)
• Renal impairment or acute kidney injury
• Hypertension and heart failure

Drug interaction

• Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin): increased risk of bleeding.
• Other NSAIDs or aspirin: additive risk of GI toxicity.
• ACE inhibitors, ARBs, diuretics: reduced antihypertensive effect and potential worsening of renal function.
• Lithium: increased lithium levels and toxicity.
• Methotrexate: increased methotrexate toxicity.
• Cyclosporine: increased nephrotoxicity.
• SSRIs/SNRIs: increased risk of GI bleeding.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered unless it is almost time for the next dose. Do not double the dose to catch up. Resume the regular dosing schedule. Consult a healthcare provider if multiple doses are missed or if unsure.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose may include lethargy, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, epigastric pain, gastrointestinal bleeding, coma, or acute renal failure. There is no specific antidote. Management is supportive and symptomatic; consider gastric lavage or activated charcoal if ingestion was recent. Hemodialysis is not effective due to high protein binding. Seek emergency medical attention immediately.

Storage

Store at room temperature (20–25°C or 68–77°F), in a tightly closed container, away from light, moisture, and heat. Do not freeze. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use after the expiration date printed on the packaging.

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or medication. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here.

Reviews

Clinical studies and patient reports indicate that Feldene is effective in reducing pain and improving function in arthritic conditions. Many users appreciate the once-daily dosing. However, concerns regarding gastrointestinal and cardiovascular risks are frequently noted. Always discuss benefits and risks with a healthcare professional before starting or continuing therapy.