When you're dealing with long-term joint pain or inflammation, piroxicam, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to reduce pain, swelling, and stiffness. Also known as Feldene, it's one of the longer-acting NSAIDs on the market, often prescribed for conditions like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Unlike some pain relievers that just mask the feeling, piroxicam works by blocking enzymes in your body that cause inflammation — the real source of your discomfort.
It’s not a quick fix like ibuprofen. Piroxicam stays active in your system for up to 50 hours, which means you might only need one dose a day. But that also means side effects can build up if you're not careful. People who take it regularly need to watch for stomach issues, high blood pressure, or kidney stress — especially if they’re older or already on other meds like blood thinners or diuretics. It’s not for everyone. If you’ve had ulcers, heart problems, or allergic reactions to aspirin or other NSAIDs, your doctor will likely avoid it.
It’s often compared to other NSAIDs like celecoxib, a COX-2 inhibitor designed to be gentler on the stomach or naproxen, a shorter-acting but commonly used alternative for arthritis. Piroxicam is stronger and lasts longer, but it carries a higher risk of gastrointestinal bleeding. That’s why it’s usually reserved for cases where other options haven’t worked or when daily dosing convenience matters more than short-term safety.
Some users find it helps with tendonitis, bursitis, or even gout flare-ups, though it’s not FDA-approved for those uses. It’s not a miracle drug — and it doesn’t fix the root cause of your arthritis. But for many, it’s the difference between being stuck on the couch and being able to walk the dog or play with the grandkids.
What you’ll find below are real, practical guides that dig into how piroxicam fits into the bigger picture of pain management. You’ll see how it stacks up against other arthritis meds, what to do if it stops working, how to reduce risks, and what alternatives people actually use when side effects become a problem. No fluff. Just clear, tested info from people who’ve been there.
Piroxicam is an NSAID used for arthritis pain, offering long-lasting relief with once-daily dosing. But it carries serious risks like stomach bleeding and heart problems. Learn how it works, who should use it, and safer alternatives.
