When you're dealing with chronic pain from arthritis or inflammation, piroxicam, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to reduce pain, swelling, and stiffness. Also known as Feldene, it's been prescribed for decades to help people move better and live with less discomfort. But getting the piroxicam dosage wrong can lead to serious problems—stomach bleeding, kidney damage, or heart risks. It's not a drug you take lightly.
Most adults start with 20 mg once a day, often taken with food to cut down on stomach upset. That’s the standard piroxicam dosage, the typical daily amount prescribed for osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. But if you're older, have kidney issues, or take other meds like blood thinners or steroids, your doctor might lower that dose. Never adjust it yourself. Piroxicam stays in your system for days, so taking extra pills won’t make it work faster—it just raises your risk. It’s also not meant for short-term pain like a sprained ankle. This drug is for long-term inflammation, not quick fixes.
Side effects are common. Up to 1 in 5 people get stomach pain, nausea, or heartburn. More serious ones—like black stools, vomiting blood, or sudden swelling—need immediate care. If you’ve had ulcers before, or if you're over 65, you’re at higher risk. And don’t mix it with other NSAIDs like ibuprofen or naproxen. That’s a dangerous combo. Piroxicam also interacts with some blood pressure meds and antidepressants. Always tell your doctor what else you’re taking.
There’s no one-size-fits-all here. Your body, your health history, and your other medications all shape what’s safe for you. That’s why you’ll find real-world experiences in the posts below—from people who’ve used piroxicam for years to those who switched after side effects hit. You’ll see how dosage changes work in practice, what alternatives worked for others, and how to spot early warning signs before things get serious.
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.
