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Brand

Feldene

Availability

Capsules: 10 mg & 20 mg

Pharmacology

Piroxicam is an oxicam derivative that is both nonsteroidal and anti-inflammatory. However it is not structurally related to other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs ²⁷ . It is thought to act by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis thereby exerting an anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anti-exudative and antipyretic effect .

It is absorbed well by the gut, and is distributed into synovial fluid as well as plasma. It goes through biotransformation in the liver and excretes metabolites in urine.

Piroxicam has not been found to have teratogenic effects in animals, and has only minimal concentration in breast milk.

Indications

Used for degenerative joint disease, and spondylosis of the vertebrae in rats.

Drug Interactions or Contraindications

Due to the potential of peripheral edema use cautiously in those with history of cardiac problems.

Can inhibit platelet aggregation and cause GI erosion, avoid concomitant use if giving aspirin, phenylbutazone, corticosteroids or other NSAIDs.

Not recommended if gastrointestinal irritation and hemorrhage, or impaired hepatic, cardiac, or renal function present.

Adverse Reactions

CNS:  restlessness or lethargy, tinnitus.

GI:  loss of appetite, GI ulceration, fecal occult blood

GU:  renal papillary necrosis

Hematologic:   anemia, may falsely elevate blood glucose levels

Hepatic: elevated liver enzymes

Metabolic:  dehydration

Skin:  pruritus (itching)

Other:  peripheral edema

Dosage Recommendations

3 mg/kg , PO , q24hrs.  ¹¹

Considerations

• Give med at same time every day.
• May give with food.
• Prevent dehydration by providing juicy types of fruit in addition to fresh water.
• Report increase swelling. Changes in stool (black), urinary changes, or weight gain to the vet.
• Store capsules in dry area in a closed container, at room temperature.
• If made up as suspension, refrigerate.

Posted on June 23, 2003, 16:26, Last updated on April 6, 2010, 17:43 | NSAIDS