Piroxicam Capsule is an NSAID drug that may be beneficial in reducing the pain and inflammation associated with degenerative joint disease. It's also effective for managing some types of cancers in cats and dogs, including those of the bladder, mammary gland, colon and prostate, among others. Piroxicam is sold in individual 20 mg strength capsules and is administered orally.How it Works

Piroxicam is an NSAID (non steroidal anti-inflammatory drug) known as a nonselective cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibitor, with effects ranging between both COX-1 and COX-2. Its first function works by emphasizing the presence of prostaglandins (product of COX-1), which forward the body's ability to attend to hypotension and safeguard the gastrointestinal tract. Its second function emphasizes the presence of prostaglandins whose job is to attend to inflammation (product of COX-2), which is often heightened in the presence of the following tumors:

• Nasal epithelial tumors
• Mammary tumors
• Colorectal tumors
• Oral squamous cell carcinoma
• Oral melanoma,
• Prostatic carcinoma
• Transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) of the bladder
• Osteosarcoma

Special Precautions

Please note the following important precautions when administering piroxicam:

• Do not give to animals that have shown sensitivity or allergic reaction.
• Do not give to animals that have suffered bleeding, inflammation, or puncturing of the stomach or lining of the intestines.
• Avoid use in pets with high blood pressure.
• Use with extreme care in animals with a history of heart failure.
• This drug may interfere and/or react with other drugs. e.g., diuretics and/or ACE-inhibitors (enalapril, benazepril, quinapril).
• Talk to your veterinarian if your animal is currently taking other medications.

Overdose Information

Immediately contact your closest emergency animal hospital or vet.

Side Effects

Serious side effects of piroxicam may occur somewhat abruptly. This may include ulcers of the stomach/intestine, intestinal bleeding (dark or resinous stools), vomiting, no appetite, peritonitis, inhibition and damage of kidneys (papillary necrosis), and diminishment of blood clotting via piroxicam's effects on blood platelets. Ulcer development is quickened when used in conjunction with corticosteroids (e.g., cortisone, prednisone), aspirin, and phenylbutazone. Use of NSAIDs can lead to liver damage via heightening of liver enzymes.

Storage

Store in a dry and cool environment.