Feldene is the brand name of the generic drug piroxicam. Piroxicam is part of a class of drugs known as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), specifically a non-selective cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibitor. NSAIDs are treat various causes of pain, inflammation, and swelling. It also reduces fever.
Uses
What is Feldene used for?
- Body pain due to injury
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Juvenile arthritis
- Osteoarthritis
- Ankylosing spondylitis
- Acute musculoskeletal disorders
- Acute gout
- Post-operative pain
- Dysmenorrhea
- Fever
- Pain due to upper respiratory tract inflammation
How should I take Feldene?
Read the directions on the packaging for complete information. Check the label and expiration date.
For oral dosage forms, swallow it whole without chewing, crushing, or dissolving it in liquid.
For topical preparations, apply a thin layer to the affected areas. Wash your hands thoroughly after handling the product. Avoid contact with your eyes, nostrils, and mouth.
How do I store Feldene?
Store this product at room temperature away from direct light and moisture. To prevent drug damage, you should not store it in the bathroom or the freezer.
There may be different brands of this drug that may have different storage needs. So, it is important to always check the product package for instructions on storage, or ask your pharmacist. For safety, you should keep all medicines away from children and pets.
You should not flush this product down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Additionally, it is important to properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist for more details about how to safely discard your product.
Precautions & Warnings
What should I know before using Feldene?
Before using this drug, tell your doctor if you are/have:
- Pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Taking any other medicines. This includes any prescription, OTC, and herbal remedies.
- An allergy to any of the ingredients of this product.
- Any other illnesses, disorders, or medical conditions.
Is it safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
Avoid using this drug while pregnant. The oral form is contraindicated (not allowed) during the 3rd trimester. Long-term use may also cause reversible infertility. Please always consult with your doctor to weigh the potential benefits and risks before taking any medication.
This drug may be excreted in breast milk. This drug should be used while breastfeeding only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the child, as determined by your doctor.
Side Effects
What side effects can occur from Feldene?
Like all drugs, this product may have side effects. If they occur, side effects are generally mild and resolve once treatment is finished or the dose is lowered. Some reported side effects include:
Topical
- Mild skin irritation, such as redness or itching
- Severe skin rash
Oral
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Stomach upset
- Abdominal pain
- Indigestion
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Allergic reaction
- Bronchospasm
- Blood abnormalities
- Edema
- Eye irritation
- Photosensitivity
- Malaise
- Tinnitus
- Drowsiness **Do not take before driving or operating machinery
Seek medical attention immediately if you experience any of these serious, potentially fatal drug reactions:
- Arterial thrombotic events (e.g. stroke, heart attack)
- Gastrointestinal damage or bleeding
- Severe hypersensitivity reaction
- Hepatitis
- Nephrotoxicity
- Hematologic abnormalities (e.g. anemia)
- Seizures
However, not everyone experiences these side effects. In addition, some people may experience other side effects. So, if you have any concerns about a side effect, please consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Interactions
What drugs may interact with Feldene?
This medication may interact with other drugs that you are currently taking, which can change how your drug works or increase your risk for serious side effects.
To avoid any potential drug interactions, you should keep a list of all the drugs you are using (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist.
Drugs with known interactions:
- Other NSAIDs
- Salicylates
- Anticoagulants
- Cyclosporine
- Corticosteroids
- Quinolones
- Lithium
- Diuretics
- Methotrexate
- Antihypertensives
- Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
If you experience an adverse drug interaction, stop taking this drug and continue taking your other medication. Inform your doctor immediately to reevaluate your treatment plan. Approaches include dose adjustment, drug substitution, or ending therapy.
Does food or alcohol interact with Feldene?
This drug may interact with food or alcohol by altering the way the drug works or increase the risk for serious side effects. Avoid consuming alcohol while taking this drug. Please discuss with your doctor or pharmacist any potential food or alcohol interactions before using this drug.
What health conditions may interact with Feldene?
This drug may interact with underlying conditions. This interaction may worsen your health condition or alter the way the drug works. Therefore, it is important to always let your doctor and pharmacist know all the health conditions you currently have, especially:
- Active bronchial asthma
- Uncontrolled hypertension
- Congestive heart failure (CHF)
- Other cardiovascular diseases
- Gastrointestinal diseases
- Conditions that require surgery
- Renal or hepatic impairment
- Women with fertility issues or are undergoing treatment
- Elderly patients over the age of 60
- CYP2C9 poor metabolizers
Inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have any concerns regarding specific health conditions.
Dosage
The information provided is not a substitute for any medical advice. Therefore, you should always consult with your doctor or pharmacist before using any medication.
What is the dose for an adult?
Apply a thin layer of the gel and gently massage it into the affected area. Wash your hands well afterward.
This is usually three or four times a day.
What is the dose for a child?
The dosage has not been established in pediatric patients. It may be unsafe for your child. It is always important to fully understand the safety of the drug before using it. Please consult your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
How is Feldene available?
Feldene is available in the following dosage forms and strengths:
- Topical gel 0.5% w/w
- Capsule 10 mg, 20 mg
- Feldene Flash Tablet 20 mg
What should I do in case of an emergency or overdose?
In case of an emergency or an overdose, call your local emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room.
What should I do if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your regular dose as scheduled. Do not take a double dose.
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