INN monograph
Piroxicam Gel
Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug [EPC] · POM
Verified · Updated 01 Aug 2026 · Source: Local active-ingredient clinical extract; FDA drug label via OpenFDA/DailyMed; Professional class pharmacology (NSAID / analgesic–anti-inflammatory)
Kenya market
Wholesale / list prices where loaded
Risk first
Contraindications
- 4 CONTRAINDICATIONS Piroxicam capsules are contraindicated in the following patients: • Known hypersensitivity (e.g., anaphylactic reactions and serious skin reactions) to piroxicam or any components of the drug product [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7 , 5.9) ] • History of asthma, urticaria, or other allergic-type reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs.
- Severe, sometimes fatal, anaphylactic reactions to NSAIDs have been reported in such patients [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7 , 5.8) ] • In the setting of CABG surgery [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] • Known hypersensitivity to piroxicam or any components of the drug product ( 4 ) • History of asthma, urticaria, or other allergic-type reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs ( 4 ) • In the setting of CABG surgery ( 4 )
Precautions
- 5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS • Hepatotoxicity : Inform patients of warning signs and symptoms of hepatotoxicity.
- Discontinue if abnormal liver tests persist or worsen or if clinical signs and symptoms of liver disease develop ( 5.3 ) • Hypertension : Patients taking some antihypertensive medications may have impaired response to these therapies when taking NSAIDs.
- Monitor blood pressure ( 5.4 , 7 ) • Heart Failure and Edema : Avoid use of piroxicam capsules in patients with severe heart failure unless benefits are expected to outweigh risk of worsening heart failure ( 5.5 ) • Renal Toxicity : Monitor renal function in patients with renal or hepatic impairment, heart failure, dehydration, or hypovolemia.
- Avoid use of piroxicam capsules in patients with advanced renal disease unless benefits are expected to outweigh risk of worsening renal function ( 5.6 ) • Anaphylactic Reactions : Seek emergency help if an anaphylactic reaction occurs ( 5.7 ) • Exacerbation of Asthma Related to Aspirin Sensitivity : Piroxicam capsules are contraindicated in patients with aspirin-sensitive asthma.
- Monitor patients with preexisting asthma (without aspirin sensitivity) ( 5.8 ) • Serious Skin Reactions : Discontinue piroxicam capsules at first appearance of skin rash or other signs of hypersensitivity ( 5.9 ) • Premature Closure of Fetal Ductus Arteriosus : Avoid use in pregnant women starting at 30 weeks gestation ( 5.10 , 8.1 ) • Hematologic Toxicity : Monitor hemoglobin or hematocrit in patients with any signs or symptoms of anemia ( 5.11 , 7 ) 5.1 Cardiovascular Thrombotic Events Clinical trials of several cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) selective and nonselective NSAIDs of up to three years duration have shown an increased risk of serious cardiovascular (CV) thrombotic events, including myocardial infarction (MI), and stroke, which can be fatal.
- Based on available data, it is unclear that the risk for CV thrombotic events is similar for all NSAIDs.
- The relative increase in serious CV thrombotic events over baseline conferred by NSAID use appears to be similar in those with and without known CV disease or risk factors for CV disease.
- However, patients with known CV disease or risk factors had a higher absolute incidence of excess serious CV thrombotic events, due to their increased baseline rate.
- Some observational studies found that this increased risk of serious CV thrombotic events began as early as the first weeks of treatment.
- The increase in CV thrombotic risk has been observed most consistently at higher doses.
- To minimize the potential risk for an adverse CV event in NSAID-treated patients, use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration possible.
- Physicians and patients should remain alert for the development of such events, throughout the entire treatment course, even in the absence of previous CV symptoms.
Point of care
Dosing
Adult
2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Carefully consider the potential benefits and risks of piroxicam capsules and other treatment options before deciding to use piroxicam capsules. Use the lowest effective dosage for the shortest duration consistent with individual patient treatment goals [ see Warnings and Precautions (5) ] . After observing the response to initial therapy with piroxicam capsules, the dose and frequency should be adjusted to suit an individual patient’s needs. For the relief of rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis, the dosage is 20 mg given orally once per day. If desired, the daily dose may be divided. Because of the long half-life of piroxicam capsules, steady-state blood levels are not reached for 7 to 12 days. Therefore, although the therapeutic effects of piroxicam capsules are evident early in treatment, there is a progressive increase in response over several weeks and the effect of therapy should not be assessed for two weeks. • Use the lowest effective dosage for shortest duration consistent with individual patient treatment goals ( 2 ) • OA and RA: 20 mg once daily ( 2 )
Paediatric
8.4 Pediatric Use Piroxicam capsules has not been investigated in pediatric patients. The safety and effectiveness of piroxicam capsules have not been established.
Renal
Haemodynamically mediated AKI risk — high alert in volume depletion and renin-angiotensin blockade.
- CrCl 0–120: Confirm renal dosing in product SmPC / primary label.
Hepatic
Rare idiosyncratic hepatitis; more concern with prolonged high doses/diclofenac in some datasets.
Safety
Drug interactions
- Risk-stratify GI and CV before prescribing.
- Prefer topical NSAIDs for local MSK pain when adequate.
- Review after short courses.
- Educate on black stools/haematemesis red flags.
Safety
Adverse effects
- 6 ADVERSE REACTIONS The following adverse reactions are discussed in greater detail in other sections of the labeling: • Cardiovascular Thrombotic Events [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] • GI Bleeding, Ulceration and Perforation [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] • Hepatotoxicity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] • Hypertension [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] • Heart Failure and Edema [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ] • Renal Toxicity and Hyperkalemia [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6) ] • Anaphylactic Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7) ] • Serious Skin Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9) ] • Hematologic Toxicity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.11) ] Most common adverse reactions (incidence > 2% from clinical trials) are: nausea, constipation, flatulence, abdominal pain, diarrhea, headache, dizziness, edema, rash.
- ( 6.1 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Nostrum Laboratories, Inc. at quality@nostrumpharma.com or 1-877-770-1288 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch. 6.1 Clinical Trials Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice.
- In patients taking piroxicam capsules or other NSAIDs, the most frequently reported adverse experiences occurring in approximately 1% to 10% of patients are: Cardiovascular System: Edema Digestive System: Anorexia, abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, flatulence, nausea, vomiting Nervous System: Dizziness, headache, vertigo Skin and Appendages: Pruritus, rash Special Senses: Tinnitus Additional adverse experiences reported occasionally include: Cardiovascular System: Palpitations Digestive System: Stomatitis Nervous System: Drowsiness Special Senses: Blurred vision 6.2 Postmarketing Experience The following adverse reactions have been identified during post approval use of piroxicam capsules.
- Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure.
- Body As a Whole: Fever, infection, sepsis, anaphylactic reactions, appetite changes, death, flu-like syndrome, pain (colic), serum sickness Cardiovascular System: Congestive heart failure, hypertension, tachycardia, syncope, arrhythmia, exacerbation of angina, hypotension, myocardial infarction, vasculitis Digestive System: Dyspepsia, elevated liver enzymes, gross bleeding/perforation, heartburn, ulcers (gastric/duodenal), dry mouth, esophagitis, gastritis, glossitis, hematemesis, hepatitis, jaundice, melena, rectal bleeding, eructation, liver failure, pancreatitis Hemic and Lymphatic System: Anemia, increased bleeding time, ecchymosis, eosinophilia, epistaxis, leukopenia, purpura, petechial rash, thrombocytopenia, agranulocytosis, hemolytic anemia, aplastic anemia, lymphadenopathy, pancytopenia Hypersensitivity: Positive ANA Metabolic and Nutritional: Weight changes, Fluid retention, hyperglycemia, hypoglycemia Nervous System: Anxiety, asthenia, confusion, depression, dream abnormalities, insomnia, malaise, nervousness, paresthesia, somnolence, tremors, akathisia, convulsions, coma, hallucinations, meningitis, mood alterations Respiratory System: Asthma, dyspnea, respiratory depression, pneumonia Skin and Appendages: Alopecia, bruising, desquamation, erythema, photosensitivity, sweat, angioedema, toxic epidermal necrosis, erythema multiforme, exfoliative dermatitis, onycholysis, Stevens Johnson Syndrome, urticaria, vesiculobullous reaction Special Senses: Conjunctivitis, hearing impairment, swollen eyes Urogenital System: Abnormal renal function, cystitis, dysuria, hematuria, hyperkalemia, interstitial nephritis, nephrotic syndrome, oliguria/polyuria, proteinuria, renal failure, glomerulonephritis Reproductive System and Breast Disorders: Female fertility decreased
Use
Indications
- indicated: • For relief of the signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis. • For relief of the signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.
- Piroxicam capsules are a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug indicated for •Relief of the signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis (OA) ( 1 )•Relief of the signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) ( 1 )
Pharmacology
Mode of action
12.
Full mechanism text
12.1 Mechanism of Action Piroxicam has analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antipyretic properties. The mechanism of action of piroxicam capsules, like that of other NSAIDs, is not completely understood but involves inhibition of cyclooxygenase (COX-1 and COX-2). Piroxicam is a potent inhibitor of prostaglandin (PG) synthesis in vitro. Piroxicam concentrations reached during therapy have produced in vivo effects. Prostaglandins sensitize afferent nerves and potentiate the action of bradykinin in inducing pain in animal models. Prostaglandins are mediators of inflammation. Because piroxicam is an inhibitor of prostaglandin synthesis, its mode of action may be due to a decrease of prostaglandins in peripheral tissues.
ADME
Pharmacokinetics & PD
| Onset | 30–60 minutes |
|---|---|
| Duration | 4–12 hours (agent-dependent) |
| Route | ORAL / TOPICAL / RECTAL / IM (agent-dependent) |
| Absorption | Piroxicam is well absorbed following oral administration. Drug plasma concentrations are proportional for 10 mg and 20 mg doses and generally peak within three to five hours after administration. A single 20 mg dose generally produces peak piroxicam plasma levels of 1.5 mcg/mL to... |
| Distribution | The apparent volume of distribution of piroxicam is approximately 0.14 L/kg. Ninety nine percent of plasma piroxicam is bound to plasma proteins. Piroxicam is excreted into human milk. The presence in breast milk has been determined during initial and long term conditions (52 day... |
| Metabolism | Metabolism of piroxicam occurs by hydroxylation at the 5 position of the pyridyl side chain and conjugation of this product; by cyclodehydration; and by a sequence of reactions involving hydrolysis of the amide linkage, decarboxylation, ring contraction, and N-demethylation. In v... |
| Half-life | (50 hours) results in the maintenance of relatively stable plasma concentrations throughout the day on once daily doses and significant accumulation upon multiple dosing. Most patients approximate steady state plasma levels within 7 to 12 days. Higher levels, which approximate st... |
Full PK/PD text
12 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY 12.1 Mechanism of Action Piroxicam has analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antipyretic properties. The mechanism of action of piroxicam capsules, like that of other NSAIDs, is not completely understood but involves inhibition of cyclooxygenase (COX-1 and COX-2). Piroxicam is a potent inhibitor of prostaglandin (PG) synthesis in vitro. Piroxicam concentrations reached during therapy have produced in vivo effects. Prostaglandins sensitize afferent nerves and potentiate the action of bradykinin in inducing pain in animal models. Prostaglandins are mediators of inflammation. Because piroxicam is an inhibitor of prostaglandin synthesis, its mode of action may be due to a decrease of prostaglandins in peripheral tissues. 12.3 Pharmacokinetics General Pharmacokinetic Characteristics The pharmacokinetics of piroxicam have been characterized in healthy subjects, special populations and patients. The pharmacokinetics of piroxicam are linear. Proportional increase in exposure is observed with increasing doses. The prolonged half-life (50 hours) results in the maintenance of relatively stable plasma concentrations throughout the day on once daily doses and significant accumulation upon multiple dosing. Most patients approximate steady state plasma levels within 7 to 12 days. Higher levels, which approximate steady state at two to three weeks, have been observed in patients in whom longer plasma half-lives of piroxicam occurred. Absorption Piroxicam is well absorbed following oral administration. Drug plasma concentrations are proportional for 10 mg and 20 mg doses and generally peak within three to five hours after administration. A single 20 mg dose generally produces peak piroxicam plasma levels of 1.5 mcg/mL to 2 mcg/mL, while maximum drug plasma concentrations, after repeated daily administration of 20 mg piroxicam, usually stabilize at 3 mcg/mL to 8 mcg/mL. With food there is a slight delay in the rate but not the extent of absorption following oral administration. The concomitant administration of antacids (aluminum hydroxide or aluminum hydroxide with magnesium hydroxide) have been shown to have no effect on the plasma levels of orally administered piroxicam. Distribution The apparent volume of distribution of piroxicam is approximately 0.14 L/kg. Ninety nine percent of plasma piroxicam is bound to plasma proteins. Piroxicam is excreted into human milk. The presence in breast milk has been determined during initial and long term conditions (52 days). Piroxicam appeared in breast milk at approximately 1% to 3% of the maternal concentration. No accumulation of piroxicam occurred in milk relative to that in plasma during treatment. Elimination Metabolism Metabolism of piroxicam occurs by hydroxylation at the 5 position of the pyridyl side chain and conjugation of this product; by cyclodehydration; and by a sequence of reactions involving hydrolysis of the amide linkage, decarboxylation, ring contraction, and N-demethylation. In vitro studies indicate cytochrome P4502C9 (CYP2C9) as the main enzyme involved in the formation to the 5′-hydroxy-piroxicam, the major metabolite [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.5) ] . The biotransformation products of piroxicam metabolism are reported to not have any anti-inflammatory activity. Higher systemic exposure of piroxicam has been noted in subjects with CYP2C9 polymorphisms compared to normal metabolizer type subjects [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.5) ] . Excretion Piroxicam and its biotransformation products are excreted in urine and feces, with about twice as much appearing in the urine as in the feces. Approximately 5% of a piroxicam capsule dose is excreted unchanged. The plasma half-life (t ½ ) for piroxicam is approximately 50 hours. Specific Populations Pediatric Piroxicam has not been investigated in pediatric patients. Race Pharmacokinetic differences due to race have not been identified. Hepatic Impairment The effects of hepatic disease on piroxicam pharmacokinetics have not been established. However, a substantial portion of piroxicam elimination occurs by hepatic metabolism. Consequently, patients with hepatic disease may require reduced doses of piroxicam as compared to patients with normal hepatic function. Renal Impairment Piroxicam pharmacokinetics have been investigated in patients with renal insufficiency. Studies indicate patients with mild to moderate renal impairment may not require dosing adjustments. However, the pharmacokinetic properties of piroxicam in patients with severe renal insufficiency or those receiving hemodialysis are not known. Drug Interaction Studies Antacids Concomitant administration of antacids had no effect on piroxicam plasma levels. Aspirin When piroxicam was administered with aspirin, its protein binding was reduced, although the clearance of free piroxicam capsules was not altered. Plasma levels of piroxicam were decreased to approximately 80% of their normal values when piroxicam capsules was administered (20 mg/day) in conjunction with aspirin (3900 mg/day). The clinical significance of this interaction is not known [see Drug Interactions (7) ]. 12.5 Pharmacogenomics CYP2C9 activity is reduced in individuals with genetic polymorphisms, such as the CYP2C9*2 and CYP2C9*3 polymorphisms. Limited data from two published reports showed that subjects with heterozygous CYP2C9*1/*2 (n = 9), heterozygous CYP2C9*1/*3 (n = 9), and homozygous CYP2C9*3/*3 (n = 1) genotypes showed 1.7-, 1.7-, and 5.3-fold higher piroxicam systemic levels, respectively, than the subjects with CYP2C9*1/*1 (n = 17, normal metabolizer genotype) following administration of a single oral dose. The mean elimination half-life values of piroxicam for subjects with CYP2C9*1/*3 (n = 9) and CYP2C9*3/*3 (n = 1) genotypes were 1.7- and 8.8-fold higher than subjects with CYP2C9*1/*1 (n = 17). It is estimated that the frequency of the homozygous*3/*3 genotype is 0% to 1% in the population at large; however, frequencies as high as 5.7% have been reported in certain ethnic groups. Poor Metabolizers of CYP2C9 Substrates: In patients who are known or suspected to be poor CYP2C9 metabolizers based on genotype or previous history/experience with other CYP2C9 substrates (such as warfarin and phenytoin) consider dose reduction as they may have abnormally high plasma levels due to reduced metabolic clearance.
Kenya
Brands & prices
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|---|---|---|---|
| No brands linked yet. | |||
Special populations
Pregnancy & lactation
Pregnancy
8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary Use of NSAIDs, including piroxicam capsules, during the third trimester of pregnancy increases the risk of premature closure of the fetal ductus arteriosus. Avoid use of NSAIDs, including piroxicam capsules, in pregnant women starting at 30 weeks of gestation (third trimester). There are no adequate and well-controlled studies of piroxicam capsules in pregnant women. Data from observational studies regarding potential embryofetal risks of NSAID use in women in the first or second trimesters of pregnancy are inconclusive. In the general U.S. population, all clinically recognized pregnancies, regardless of drug exposure, have a background rate of 2% to 4% for major malformations, and 15% to 20% for pregnancy loss. In animal reproduction studies in rats and rabbits, there was no evidence of teratogenicity at exposures up to 5 and 10 times the maximum recommended human dose (MRHD), respectively. In rat studies with piroxicam, fetotoxicity (postimplantation loss) was observed at exposures 2 times the MRHD, and delayed parturition and an increased incidence of stillbirth were noted at doses equivalent to the MRHD of piroxicam. Based on animal data, prostaglandins have been shown to have an important role in endometrial vascular permeability, blastocyst implantation, and decidualization. In animal studies, administration of prostaglandin synthesis inhibitors such as piroxicam, resulted in increased pre- and post-implantation loss. Clinical Considerations Labor or Delivery There are no studies on the effects of piroxicam capsules during labor or delivery. In animal studies, NSAIDs, including piroxicam inhibit prostaglandin synthesis, cause delayed parturition, and increase the incidence of stillbirth. Data Animal Data Pregnant rats administered piroxicam at 2, 5, or 10 mg/kg/day during the period of organogenesis (Gestation Days 6 to 15) demonstrated increased post-implantation losses with 5 and 10 mg/kg/day of piroxicam (equivalent to 2 and 5 times the MRHD, of 20 mg respectively, based on a mg/m 2 body surface area [BSA]). There were no drug-related developmental abnormalities noted in offspring. Gastrointestinal tract toxicity was increased in pregnant rats in the last trimester of pregnancy compared to non-pregnant rats or rats in earlier trimesters of pregnancy. Pregnant rabbits administered piroxicam at 2, 5, or 10 mg/kg/day during the period of organogenesis (Gestation Days 7 to 18) demonstrated no drug-related developmental abnormalities in offspring (up to 10 times the MRHD based on a mg/m 2 BSA). In a pre- and post-natal development study in which pregnant rats were administered piroxicam at 2, 5, or 10 mg/kg/day on Gestation Day 15 through delivery and weaning of offspring, reduced weight gain and death were observed in dams at 10 mg/kg/day (5 times the MRHD based on a mg/m 2 BSA) starting on Gestation Day 20. Treated dams revealed peritonitis, adhesions, gastric bleeding, hemorrhagic enteritis and dead fetuses in utero. Parturition was delayed and there was an increased incidence of stillbirth in all piroxicam-treated groups (at doses equivalent to the MRHD). Postnatal development could not be reliably assessed due to the absence of maternal care secondary to severe maternal toxicity.
Lactation
: Use of NSAIDs during the third trimester of pregnancy increases the risk of premature closure of the fetal ductus arteriosus. Avoid use of NSAIDs in pregnant women starting at 30 weeks gestation ( 5.10 , 8.1 ) Infertility : NSAIDs are associated with reversible infertility. Consider withdrawal of piroxicam capsules in women who have difficulties conceiving ( 8.3 ) 8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary Use of NSAIDs, including piroxicam capsules, during the third trimester of pregnancy increases the risk of premature closure of the fetal ductus arteriosus. Avoid use of NSAIDs, including piroxicam capsules, in pregnant women starting at 30 weeks of gestation (third trimester). There are no adequate and well-controlled studies of piroxicam capsules in pregnant women. Data from observational studies regarding potential embryofetal risks of NSAID use in women in the first or second trimesters of pregnancy are inconclusive. In the general U.S. population, all clinically recognized pregnancies, regardless of drug exposure, have a background rate of 2% to 4% for major malformations, and 15% to 20% for pregnancy loss. In animal reproduction studies in rats and rabbits, there was no evidence of teratogenicity at exposures up to 5 and 10 times the maximum recommended human dose (MRHD), respectively. In rat studies with piroxicam, fetotoxicity (postimplantation loss) was observed at exposures 2 times the MRHD, and delayed parturition and an increased incidence of stillbirth were noted at doses equivalent to the MRHD of piroxicam. Based on animal data, prostaglandins have been shown to have an important role in endometrial vascular permeability, blastocyst implantation, and decidualization. In animal studies, administration of prostaglandin synthesis inhibitors such as piroxicam, resulted in increased pre- and post-implantation loss. Clinical Considerations Labor or Delivery There are no studies on the effects of piroxicam capsules during labor or delivery. In animal studies, NSAIDs, including piroxicam inhibit prostaglandin synthesis, cause delayed parturition, and increase the incidence of stillbirth. Data Animal Data Pregnant rats administered piroxicam at 2, 5, or 10 mg/kg/day during the period of organogenesis (Gestation Days 6 to 15) demonstrated increased post-implantation losses with 5 and 10 mg/kg/day of piroxicam (equivalent to 2 and 5 times the MRHD, of 20 mg respectively, based on a mg/m 2 body surface area [BSA]). There were no drug-related developmental abnormalities noted in offspring. Gastrointestinal tract toxicity was increased in pregnant rats in the last trimester of pregnancy compared to non-pregnant rats or rats in earlier trimesters of pregnancy. Pregnant rabbits administered piroxicam at 2, 5, or 10 mg/kg/day during the period of organogenesis (Gestation Days 7 to 18) demonstrated no drug-related developmental abnormalities in offspring (up to 10 times the MRHD based on a mg/m 2 BSA). In a pre- and post-natal development study in which pregnant rats were administered piroxicam at 2, 5, or 10 mg/kg/day on Gestation Day 15 through delivery and weaning of offspring, reduced weight gain and death were observed in dams at 10 mg/kg/day (5 times the MRHD based on a mg/m 2 BSA) starting on Gestation Day 20. Treated dams revealed peritonitis, adhesions, gastric bleeding, hemorrhagic enteritis and dead fetuses in utero. Parturition was delayed and there was an increased incidence of stillbirth in all piroxicam-treated groups (at doses equivalent to the MRHD). Postnatal development could not be reliably assessed due to the absence of maternal care secondary to severe maternal toxicity. 8.2 Lactation Risk Summary Limited data from 2 published reports that included a total of 6 breastfeeding women and 2 infants showed piroxicam is excreted in human milk at approximately 1% to 3% of the maternal concentration. No accumulation of piroxicam occurred in milk relative to that in maternal plasma during treatment. The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother’s clinical need for piroxicam capsules and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed infant from the piroxicam capsules or from the underlying maternal condition. 8.3 Females and Males of Reproductive Potential Infertility Females Based on the mechanism of action, the use of prostaglandin-mediated NSAIDs, including piroxicam capsules, may delay or prevent rupture of ovarian follicles, which has been associated with reversible infertility in some women. Published animal studies have shown that administration of prostaglandin synthesis inhibitors has the potential to disrupt prostaglandin-mediated follicular rupture required for ovulation. Small studies in women treated with NSAIDs have also shown a reversible delay in ovulation. Consider withdrawal of NSAIDs, including piroxicam capsules, in women who have difficulties conceiving or who are undergoing investigation of infertility. 8.4 Pediatric Use Piroxicam capsules has not been investigated in pediatric patients. The safety and effectiveness of piroxicam capsules have not been established. 8.5 Geriatric Use Elderly patients, compared to younger patients, are at greater risk for NSAID-associated serious cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, and/or renal adverse reactions. If the anticipated benefit for the elderly patient outweighs these potential risks, start dosing at the low end of the dosing range, and monitor patients for adverse effects [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1, 5.2 , 5.3 , 5.6 , 5.13) ] .
Diet
Food & alcohol
- Drug & food interactions (label) 7 DRUG INTERACTIONS See Table 1 for clinically significant drug interactions with piroxicam. Table 1: Clinically Significant Drug Interactions with Piroxicam Drugs That Interfere with Hemostasis Clinical Impact: •Piroxicam and anticoagulants such as warfarin have a synergistic effect on bleeding. The concomitant use of piroxicam and anticoagulants have an increased risk of serious bleeding compared to the use of either drug alone.•Serotonin release by platelets plays an important role in hemostasis. Case-control and cohort epidemiological studies showed that concomitant use of drugs that interfere with serotonin reuptake and an NSAID may potentiate the risk of bleeding more than an NSAID alone. Intervention: Monitor patients with concomitant use of piroxicam capsules with anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin), antiplatelet drugs (e.g., aspirin), SSRIs, and SNRIs for signs of bleeding [see Warnings and Precautions (5.11) ] . Aspirin Clinical Impact: Controlled clinical studies showed that the concomitant use of NSAIDs and analgesic doses of aspirin does not produce any greater therapeutic effect than the use of NSAIDs alone. In a clinical study, the concomitant use of an NSAID and aspirin was associated with a significantly increased incidence of GI adverse reactions as compared to use of the NSAID alone [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] . Intervention: Concomitant use of piroxicam capsules and analgesic doses of aspirin is not generally recommended because of the increased risk of bleeding [see Warnings and Precautions (5.11) ] . Piroxicam capsules are not a substitute for low dose aspirin for cardiovascular protection. ACE Inhibitors, Angiotensin Receptor Blockers, and Beta-Blockers Clinical Impact: •NSAIDs may diminish the antihypertensive effect of ACE inhibitors, ARBs, or beta-blockers (including propranolol).•In patients who are elderly, volume-depleted (including those on diuretic therapy), or have renal impairment, co-administration of an NSAID with ACE inhibitors or ARBs may result in deterioration of renal function, including possible acute renal failure. These effects are usually reversible. Intervention: •During concomitant use of piroxicam capsules and ACE inhibitors, ARBs, or beta-blockers, monitor blood pressure to ensure that the desired blood pressure is obtained.•During concomitant use of piroxicam capsules and ACE inhibitors or ARBs in patients who are elderly, volume-depleted, or have impaired renal function, monitor for signs of worsening renal function [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6) ]. •When these drugs are administered concomitantly, patients should be adequately hydrated. Assess renal function at the beginning of the concomitant treatment and periodically thereafter. Diuretics Clinical Impact: Clinical studies, as well as post-marketing observations, showed that NSAIDs reduced the natriuretic effect of loop diuretics (e.g., furosemide) and thiazide diuretics in some patients. This effect has been attributed to the NSAID
Trust
Sources & disclaimer
Source: Local active-ingredient clinical extract; FDA drug label via OpenFDA/DailyMed; Professional class pharmacology (NSAID / analgesic–anti-inflammatory)
Last reviewed: 01 Aug 2026
Decision support only — not a substitute for clinical judgment, product SmPC, or Kenya STG/EML.