When you take piroxicam, a long-acting nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug used for arthritis and acute pain. Also known as Feldene, it works by blocking enzymes that cause inflammation—but that same action can damage your stomach lining, kidneys, and even your heart over time. Unlike shorter-acting NSAIDs like ibuprofen, piroxicam stays in your system for days, which means side effects don’t just go away after you stop taking it.
One of the biggest risks is gastrointestinal bleeding, a life-threatening complication that can happen without warning. You might not feel pain until it’s too late. People over 65, those with a history of ulcers, or anyone taking blood thinners or steroids are at higher risk. Even a single daily dose can cause internal bleeding after weeks of use. This isn’t rare—it’s well-documented in clinical studies. The same mechanism that reduces joint swelling also weakens the protective mucus layer in your gut.
Then there’s the kidney, an organ that’s especially vulnerable to long-term NSAID use. Piroxicam reduces blood flow to the kidneys, which can lead to sudden kidney failure in people with existing kidney disease, dehydration, or heart failure. It’s not just a problem for older adults—anyone on chronic pain meds should get their kidney function checked at least once a year. And don’t assume that because you feel fine, your kidneys are safe. Damage often shows up only in blood tests.
Heart risks are another silent danger. Studies show that piroxicam increases the chance of heart attack and stroke, even in people without prior heart problems. This isn’t just about high doses—it happens with regular use over months. If you have high blood pressure, this drug can make it worse. Combine it with diuretics or ACE inhibitors, and you’re playing with fire. Your body doesn’t always give you a heads-up. That’s why doctors now avoid prescribing piroxicam unless other options have failed.
Other side effects are common but often ignored: dizziness, swelling in your legs, ringing in your ears, or unexplained weight gain. These aren’t "just side effects"—they’re signs your body is struggling. Skin rashes, liver enzyme spikes, and low blood cell counts can also happen. And if you’re taking it for arthritis, remember: it doesn’t stop the disease. It just masks the pain. That can make you move too much too soon, leading to more joint damage.
You might wonder why anyone still uses it. The answer is cost and availability. In some countries, it’s cheap and easy to get without a prescription. But that’s not a safety net—it’s a trap. There are safer NSAIDs, better pain relievers, and non-drug options like physical therapy or heat therapy that won’t wreck your insides. If you’ve been on piroxicam for more than a few weeks, talk to your doctor. Don’t wait for a bleeding episode or a kidney alarm to wake you up.
The posts below dig into real cases, drug interactions, and safer alternatives. You’ll find what to watch for, who should avoid it completely, and how to manage pain without risking your health. This isn’t theoretical—it’s what people actually experience when they take this drug long-term. Read on before your next refill.
