Take Feldene exactly as your doctor tells you.

For tablets or capsules:

• Swallow whole with a full glass of water
  
  
• Take with food or milk to protect your stomach
  
  
• Try to take it at the same time each day
  
  

For cream or gel (if prescribed):

• Apply a thin layer to the painful area
  
  
• Rub it in gently
  
  
• Wash hands after use (unless treating your hands)
  
  

For injection:

• Given by a doctor or nurse in a hospital
  
  

Do not use more than prescribed, and do not mix with other NSAIDs unless your doctor approves.

When you have arthritis or injury, your body makes chemicals called prostaglandins, which cause pain and swelling. Feldene blocks the enzymes (COX-1 and COX-2) that help make these chemicals.

By stopping prostaglandins, Feldene helps to:

• Reduce pain
  
  
• Lower swelling
  
  
• Improve movement
  
  
• Relieve stiffness, especially in the morning
  
  

It doesn’t cure arthritis, but it helps people live more comfortably by managing the symptoms.

Like all medicines, Feldene can cause side effects. Some are mild, but others can be serious, especially if used for a long time.

Common side effects:

• Upset stomach or heartburn
  
  
• Diarrhea or constipation
  
  
• Dizziness
  
  
• Headache
  
  
• Rash or itching
  
  

Serious side effects (rare but important):

• Stomach ulcers or bleeding
  
  
• Kidney problems (less urination, swelling)
  
  
• Liver problems (yellow skin or eyes)
  
  
• Heart attack or stroke (especially with long-term use)
  
  
• Severe allergic reaction (trouble breathing, swelling, rash)
  
  

Stop taking Feldene and see a doctor if you notice:

• Black or bloody stools
  
  
• Chest pain or shortness of breath
  
  
• Sudden weakness on one side of the body
  
  
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes
  
  

Skin rash with blisters

Feldene is not for everyone. Some people need to be very careful when using it.

Do not take Feldene if you:

• Are allergic to piroxicam or other NSAIDs
  
  
• Have had stomach ulcers or bleeding
  
  
• Have serious heart, kidney, or liver problems
  
  
• Are in the last 3 months of pregnancy
  
  

Use with caution if you:

• Have high blood pressure
  
  
• Have a history of heart attack or stroke
  
  
• Are elderly
  
  
• Are taking blood thinners
  
  

Your doctor may do blood tests to check your kidneys or liver if you use Feldene for a long time.

Feldene can interact with other medicines, including:

• Blood thinners (like warfarin) – may increase bleeding risk
  
  
• Other NSAIDs (like ibuprofen) – can cause stomach problems
  
  
• Diuretics (water pills) – may reduce kidney function
  
  
• Blood pressure medicines – may not work as well when used with Feldene
  
  
• Steroids – may increase the chance of stomach bleeding
  
  

Tell your doctor about all the medicines you take, including herbal products and vitamins.

General guidelines:

• Take the lowest effective dose for the shortest time possible
  
  
• Adults: Usually 10 to 20 mg per day
  
  
• Elderly patients: May need a lower dose to avoid side effects
  
  

Tips:

• Do not double up on missed doses
  
  
• Take with food to avoid stomach upset
  
  
• Do not mix with other NSAIDs unless your doctor tells you to
  
  

Always talk to your doctor before changing your dose or stopping the medicine.

Feldene is a prescription-only medicine in many countries. This means you need a doctor’s approval to use it.

Your doctor will:

• Review your medical history
  
  
• Ask about other medicines you take
  
  
• Monitor your heart, kidney, and liver health if you use it long-term
  
  
• Decide the correct dose and duration
  
  

If you are using the gel or cream, it may also need a prescription, depending on where you live.

• What is Feldene used for?
  It is used to relieve pain, inflammation, and stiffness caused by:

  • Osteoarthritis

  • Rheumatoid arthritis

  • Other musculoskeletal disorders

• What is the active ingredient?
  Piroxicam, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID).

• How does Feldene work?
  It blocks the action of cyclooxygenase (COX-1 and COX-2) enzymes, reducing the production of prostaglandins — chemicals responsible for pain and inflammation.

• How is Feldene taken?
  Orally, as capsules or tablets, usually once daily with food or milk to reduce stomach irritation.

• What are the available strengths?
  10 mg and 20 mg capsules or tablets.

• How long does Feldene take to work?
  It may take a few days to a week to feel full anti-inflammatory effects, though pain relief can start sooner.

• What are the common side effects?
  Upset stomach, nausea, heartburn, diarrhea, dizziness, headache, or drowsiness.

• Are there serious side effects?
  Yes — Feldene has boxed warnings for:

  • Increased risk of heart attack and stroke (especially with long-term use)

  • Serious gastrointestinal bleeding, ulcers, or perforation (which can be fatal)

• Who should not take Feldene?

  • People with a history of NSAID allergy, ulcers, or GI bleeding

  • Patients with severe heart failure, kidney disease, or liver disease

  • Those who have had heart bypass surgery (CABG) recently

• Can Feldene be taken with food?
  Yes, taking it with food or milk may reduce stomach irritation.

• Does Feldene cause drowsiness?
  It may cause drowsiness or dizziness in some people — use caution when driving or operating machinery.

• Can I drink alcohol while taking Feldene?
  No — alcohol increases the risk of stomach bleeding.

• Does Feldene interact with other medications?
  Yes — it can interact with:

  • Blood thinners (warfarin, apixaban)

  • Other NSAIDs or aspirin

  • Corticosteroids

  • Blood pressure medicines (ACE inhibitors, diuretics)

  • Antidepressants (SSRIs/SNRIs)

• Can Feldene be used long-term?
  Yes, but under close medical supervision, as long-term NSAID use can affect heart, stomach, and kidney function.

• Is Feldene safe during pregnancy?
  Not recommended, especially in the third trimester, as it may cause fetal heart or kidney problems.

• Can I take Feldene while breastfeeding?
  Not recommended — it may pass into breast milk in small amounts.

• Does Feldene affect blood pressure?
  Yes, it may raise blood pressure or reduce the effectiveness of some blood pressure medications.

• What should I do if I miss a dose?
  Take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s almost time for your next dose — do not double up.

• Is there a generic available?
  Yes, piroxicam is available as a generic version of Feldene.

• Where can I get Feldene?
  Available by prescription only at pharmacies.