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Piroxicam in Veterinary Medicine - Facts and Information

Piroxicam

Updated on November 01, 2024

Piroxicam is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug used to treat conditions that create inflammation in domestic species. It can also decrease cell growth of certain types of cancer.

Piroxicam

Summary

Used For: Inflammation, osteoarthritis, soft tissue injury, suppression of certain cancers

Brands: Feldene

Species: Dogs and cats

Drug type: Anti-Inflammatory

Prescription required: Yes

Pregnancy and lactation: Safe for use in pregnant and lactating animals.

Side effects: GI upset, anorexia, jaundice, constipation, bloody or black stools, change in thirst/urination

FDA Approved:

No

General description

Piroxicam is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that also has anti-tumor properties. It is most often used in dogs for the treatment of certain types of cancers, especially the bladder cancer called transitional cell carcinoma.

Uses

Inflammation, pain, osteoarthritis, soft tissue injury, other inflammatory conditions, transitional cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, mammary adenocarcinoma.

How it works

Piroxicam disrupts the production of inflammatory prostaglandins in the body.

Dosage

  • Dogs and Cats: 0.3 milligrams per kilogram of body weight given orally every 48 hours.

Forms

10 milligram capsules are available.

Storage information & handling

Keep dry and away from sunlight.

What results can I expect?

Piroxicam begins working within hours after the dose is given. Typically animals will seem more comfortable once the medication starts working. For tumor control, this medication may need to be given long-term to control cancer cell growth. Piroxicam may not reduce current tumor size, but it may slow the rate of tumor growth.

Missed Dosage

If a dose is missed, continue the next dose at the scheduled time.

Overdose / acute toxicity

Overdose can cause severe gastrointestinal upset and kidney injury.

Side effects

May include:
•Loss of appetite
•Diarrhea
•Vomiting
•Constipation
•Bloody or black stools
•Increase in drinking and/or urination
•Jaundice (yellowing of gums, skin or whites of the eyes)
•Incoordination
•Seizures
•Behavioral changes
•Lethargy
•Shedding
•Hotspots
•Kidney disease

Contraindications

•Do not use in animals with liver or kidney disease.

Drug interactions

Do not give with other NSAIDs (e.g., aspirin, etodolac (EtoGesic), deracoxib (Deramaxx), meloxicam (Metacam), carprofen (Rimadyl)) or steroids (e.g., prednisone, prednisolone, dexamethasone, triamcinolone). There is a greatly increased risk of stomach ulcers if used with these medications.

Precaution

Use with extreme caution in cats.

Sources

Saunders Handbook of Veterinary Drugs

Related Questions

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Cats can develop what's called diabetic neuropathy, where their hindlegs become progressively weak. The best thing to do is try to get his diabetes under control as quickly as possible. Here is a link describing the conditon: http://www.diabeticcatcare.com/DCCCOK/Neuropathy.htm

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Disclaimer

The information contained on this page is for educational purposes only. This medication should only be given under the advice of a veterinarian who has examined your pet under the laws applicable to your state of residence.