According to the National Institutes of Health publication PubMed Health, piroxicam, whose brand name is Feldene is a nonsteroidal non-inflammatory drug used to reduce pain, tenderness, swelling, stiffness and inflammation caused by osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Piroxicam works by stopping the production of prostaglandins, which are substances that can cause pain, fever and inflammation. Piroxicam, like any other drug, can produce side effects.
Common Side Effects
According to Drugs.com, patients taking piroxicam may experience upset stomach, heartburn, stomach pain, diarrhea, constipation, gas, headache, dizziness, nervousness, skin rash, itching, blurred vision and ringing in the ears. Common side effects of piroxicam go away with continued use of the drug.
Heart Attack and Stroke
According to PubMed Health, patients who take piroxicam and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications have a higher risk of heart attack and stroke. The heart attack and stroke may occur without warning and may cause death. The risk of heart attacks and strokes is higher in patients who take piroxicam and other NSAIDs for a longtime. Patients with previous histories of heart attacks, strokes and heart disease should inform the doctor before piroxicam is prescribed. Patients who experience signs of a heart attack or stroke such as chest pain, shortness of breath, weakness of one side of the body and slurred speech should seek immediate medical attention.
Stomach Ulcer and Perforation
Drugs.com states that piroxicam and other NSAIDs may cause irritation to the lining of the stomach and lead to ulcers and perforation of the stomach. The risk of stomach ulcers, bleeding and perforation is even greater in patients who take piroxicam together with alcohol. Signs of gastrointestinal bleeding and perforation include black tarry stools, vomits that looks like coffee grounds, coughing blood, weakness, nausea, abdominal tenderness and dizziness upon standing.
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