Piroxicam Gel is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). This prescription was first approved in the year 1982 for the treatment of:
- Osteoarthritis
- Periarthritis
- Epicondylitis
- Tendinitis is an inflammation of a tendon
- Tenosynovitis is an inflammation of a tendon sheath
- Muscular strains and sprains
This drug works by blocking the deed of cyclo-oxygenase (COX). COX is involved in the making of several chemicals in the body. Some of which are known as prostaglandins that are made by the body in response to injury and certain conditions that cause inflammation, swelling, and pain. Piroxicam blocks the production of these prostaglandins and is therefore effective at reducing inflammation and relieving pain.
How to Use It
Always use your medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. You should check with your doctor if you are not sure.
- Wash your hands first then apply the gel onto the affected area.
- Rub the gel into the skin until the gel disappears.
- Apply the medication three or four times a day. If the gel is not rubbed in, temporary staining of clothing or staining of the skin could happen.
- For muscle strains and sprains, you would start to feel better within a week. If the pain has not got any less after a week, tell your doctor.
- Do not use Piroxicam Gel for more than four weeks without telling your doctor. Do not rub your medication into damaged or broken skin.
- Do not spread near mouth, nose, and eyes, genital or anal areas. If the gel does come into contact with these areas, rinse away with water.
- Avoid too much exposure to sunlight of the area treated to prevent a possible allergic-type reaction with light.
- Do not cover the area where Piroxicam Gel has been rubbed in with dressings.
- Piroxicam is for external use only.
- If your condition does not improve while using this prescription, you should consult your doctor.
- Avoid letting the areas of skin you have treated being exposed to sunlight. It may increase the risk of sunburn.
Possible Side Effects of Piroxicam Gel
Piroxicam Gel can cause unwanted side effects in some people, even though it usually can be tolerated. You are unlikely to get any of the following, but if you do, tell your doctor straight away:
- Redness and itching of the skin where the gel was rubbed in
- Wheeziness
- Difficulty breathing or tightness in the chest
- Swelling of the lips, face, or eyelids
- Life-threatening skin reactions
Other side effects may include:
- Stomach discomfort
- Indigestion
- Nausea
These effects must go if you stop using Piroxicam Gel. If the uneasiness endures, tell your pharmacist or doctor right away.
What Should I Know Before Taking Piroxicam Gel?
This medication should be used with caution in people with:
- Liver or kidney problems
- History of ulceration bleeding in the intestines or stomach
Do not use this medication if:
- You had an allergic reaction to aspirin or other anti-inflammatory medicines used to treat painful muscles and joints
- You ever had an allergic reaction to Piroxicam
- You are under 12 years of age
- You are a pregnant or breastfeeding woman.