(Feldene® is another name for this medication.)

Use: Piroxicam’s primary use in dogs and cats has been as a supplementary drug to use in the treatment of certain types of cancers, especially those found in the bladder. Piroxicam probably acts by enhancing the body’s own ability to destroy cancer cells. Piroxicam is in the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) class of drugs and is commonly used in people for treating arthritic symptoms.

Side Effects: The most commonly reported side effects in animals taking Piroxicam are usually related to it causing stomach bleeding and ulcers. This may present as decreased appetite, vomiting (including blood in the vomit), diarrhea, or blood in the stools. If you see “tarry” black stools contact your veterinarian. If stomach ulcers occur, your veterinarian may prescribe other medicines to help control them.

Precautions: Use this drug very cautiously, if at all, in animals that have had active stomach or gastrointestinal ulcers or have had these kinds of ulcers in the past. Piroxicam can make these ulcers worse or reappear. Piroxicam should not be used in animals with kidney disease.

Directions: Dogs usually receive this medication once a day by mouth. Try to give this medication with food as that may reduce the chances of stomach problems occurring. Piroxicam can also be made into a transdermal creparation – a cream that can be applied to the skin.

Remember: Keep the capsules stored in the original prescription vial at room temperature; do not expose them to high heat.

If you miss a dose of this medication you should give it as soon as you remember it, but if it is within a few hours of the regularly scheduled dose, wait and give it at the regular time. Do not double a dose as this can be toxic to your pet.