Side Effects of Piroxicam

Gas, diarrhea, and ringing in the ears are a few of the common piroxicam side effects. Among the drug's rare side effects are insomnia, pancreatitis, and congestive heart failure. Piroxicam can also cause some serious problems that require immediate medical attention, such as slurred speech and weakness on one side of the body. These could be signs of a heart attack or stroke.

Side Effects of Piroxicam: An Introduction

As with any medicine, side effects are possible with piroxicam (Feldene®); however, not everyone who takes the drug will experience problems. In fact, most people tolerate it well. If side effects do occur, in many cases, they are minor, meaning they require no treatment or are treated easily by you or your healthcare provider.
 
(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible piroxicam side effects. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list with you.)
 

Serious Piroxicam Side Effects

The U.
 S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warns that people using nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), including piroxicam, may have a higher risk of heart attack or stroke than those people who do not take them. This warning does not apply to those who take aspirin, and the risk may be higher in people who have been taking NSAIDs for a long time.
 
These events can occur without any warning and can lead to loss of life. Get emergency medical help by calling 911 or an ambulance as soon as possible if you experience any of the following symptoms:
 
  • Chest pain
  • Shortness of breath
  • Weakness on one side of your body
  • Slurred speech.
     
Other possibly serious side effects of piroxicam include but are not limited to:
 
  • Allergic reactions, such as:
 
    • Swelling of the face or body
    • Blisters
    • Unexplained skin rash
    • Wheezing
    • Difficulty breathing
 
  • Stomach or intestinal problems, including bleeding, ulcers, or a hole (known as a perforation)
  • Liver damage, which can cause:
 
    • Nausea
    • Fatigue
    • Yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes (jaundice)
    • Excessive tiredness
 
  • Kidney problems, including kidney failure
  • Fluid retention or unexplained weight gain
  • Congestive heart failure
  • Sensation that the pill is stuck in your throat.
     
Because piroxicam can increase the risk of major or life-threatening bleeding, you should contact your healthcare provider immediately if you notice any unusual bleeding or have any of the following symptoms:
 
  • Bloody nose
  • Black, tarry stools
  • Blood in the urine or stools
  • Vomiting blood
  • Red or purple spots on the skin.
 
Side Effects of Piroxicam Article Continues on Next Page >
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD
 
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