Feldene
Piroxicam
Drug Class and Mechanism of Action of Feldene
Feldene belongs to NSAID (non steroidal anti inflammatory drugs) group of medicines also known as pain killers. NSAID are effective in the treatment of pain, fever and inflammation. Feldene, block the enzyme in the body that makes prostaglandins (responsible for inflammation which causes pain, fever etc.) know as cyclooxygenase and result in lower prostaglandins and reduced inflammation.
Therapeutic Uses of Feldene
Feldene is used in the treatment of pain caused by rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, gouty arthritis etc. Feldene is non narcotic reliever of mild to moderate pain of many causes, including injury, menstrual cramps, and other musculoskeletal conditions. In the US, FDA approved Feldene in 1982.
Direction of use of Feldene
Feldene is taken orally at the dose of 20 mg once a day or 10 mg twice a day. It is taken with food to prevent gastric irritation and gastric ulcer.
If You Miss a Dose of Feldene
If you miss a dose of Feldene, take it as you remember it. If you miss for long and it is almost time for the next dose than skip the missed dose and follow the regular dosing as usual. Do not take 2 doses of Feldene at a time.
How to Store Feldene
Feldene can be stored at room temperature. Store it in a dry place away from moisture, heat and light.
More Information About Feldene
Keep Feldene out of reach of children and do not share it with anyone. Feldene should not be used in other medical conditions without asking your doctor. Keep it out of reach of children. If you are using Feldene for long period of time get refill before your stock runs out.
Precautions to be Taken While Taking Feldene
The following precautions should be kept in mind during treatment with Feldene:
- Take Feldene as your doctor tells you and the lowest possible dose for the shortest period of time to reduce the side effects.
- Feldene can increase the risk of peptic ulcer and bleeding. The risk is multiplied if the patient is old and in poor nutritional status or smokes and drinks heavily. The chances of ulcer are also higher if you take corticosteroids like prednisone and anti coagulant like warfarin and for a prolonged period of time.
- Feldene can cause drowsiness and dizziness. Do not drive vehicle or do any risky work that require constant attention and monitoring till you know that Feldene does not cause dizziness and drowsiness in you.
- Feldene can also cause sensitivity to sun. Avoid exposure to sun, sunlamps or tanning booths if you are on Feldene, ultil you know that you are not sensitive to sun due to Feldene. If you are going out to sun for a prolonged period, use sunscreen or protective clothing.
- Feldene can harm growing fetus and it should not be used during pregnancy. If you are planning pregnancy and also taking Feldene, consult your doctor about the risks of it during pregnancy. Feldene is secreted in breast milk and avoid breast feeding during treatment with Feldene. If you have to breast feed your baby than consult with your doctor or other health care provider about the risk to your baby if you are taking Feldene during breast feeding.
- You should not take alcohol if you are on Feldene, without discussing with your doctor. Talk to your doctor if you have to take any other medicines; it may be prescription medicine, non prescription medicine or over the counter medicine, herbal preparation or simple common medicine like aspirin.
- Use Feldene with extreme caution I elderly people as they may be more sensitive to Feldene. They may be more sensitive to Feldene if they are suffering from kidney problem, peptic ulcer or bleeding due to ulcer.
- Feldene may increase the risks of heart problems like heart attack or stroke.
- Some lab tests and medical tests like blood cell counts, liver function tests, and kidney function tests, may be performed to monitor your progress or to check for side effects of Feldene. Keep all lab appointments while taking Feldene.
- You should not take Feldene if you have allergy to other NSAIDs (non steroidal anti inflammatory drugs) like aspirin, diclofenac etc. Allergic reaction includes a severe rash, hives, breathing difficulties, or dizziness. If you have any question about Feldene or other NSAIDs than ask your doctor for clarification.
Possible Adverse Effects
The following side effects may be seen with Feldene:
- Most patients get no side effect or get minor side effects and they get more benefit with fewer side effects. But sometimes there may be serious side effects, which is why lowest possible dose of Feldene is prescribed. Because the serious side effects are more frequent at higher dose.
- The most common side effects of Feldene are mainly seen in the gastrointestinal system. Feldene can cause ulcerations, abdominal pain, cramping, nausea, gastritis, and even serious gastrointestinal bleeding and liver toxicity. Stomach ulceration and bleeding may occur without any abdominal pain and black tarry stools, weakness, and dizziness upon standing may be the only signs of internal bleeding.
- Rash, kidney impairment, tinnitus, and lightheadedness also can occur as side effects.