PIROXICAM

Why has my veterinarian prescribed Piroxicam for my dog?

Piroxicam is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication used for lowering fever, pain management and to reduce inflammation. It may be used to help manage pain associated with degenerative joint disease and transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder in dogs.

How do I give Piroxicam to my dog?

• Give this medication to your dog as directed by your veterinarian. READ THE LABEL CAREFULLY.
• Give this medication after meals or with food.
• If the medicine is a liquid, measure the dose with reasonable care.
• Try to give this medication at about the same time each day.
• DO NOT give your dog more medicine than directed and do not give more often than directed.
• Try not to miss giving any doses.

What do I do if I miss giving a dose?

Give the dose as soon as possible. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose, and continue with the regular schedule. Do not give your dog two doses at once.

How do I store Piroxicam?

• Keep this medicine out of reach of children.
• Store this medicine in a cool, dry place at room temperature. Store away from heat and direct sunlight.
• Do not use the medicine if it has a strong vinegar like odor; this means the medicine is breaking down.
• Do not store this medicine in the bathroom, near the kitchen sink or in damp places. The medicine may break down if exposed to heat or moisture.

What are the potential side effects?

• Your dog may experience some stomach ulceration and bleeding. If these symptoms develop, contact your veterinarian.
• Other side effects include: headache, dizziness, ringing in the ears, rash, itching and swelling.
• Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian.

Are there any possible drug interactions?

• Make sure to tell your veterinarian what other medication you are giving to your dog.
• Quite often your veterinarian may prescribe two different medications, and a drug interaction may be anticipated. In this case, your veterinarian may vary the dose and/or monitor your pet more closely.
• The following drugs can potentially interact with piroxicam: warfarin, phenylbutazone, heparin, aspirin, flunixin, corticosteroids, methotrexate, diazepam, and propranolol.
• Contact your veterinarian if your dog experiences any unusual reactions when different medications are given together.

REMEMBER!  READ THE LABEL.

Based on material written by Rita Ozolins, B.Sc., Phm. and modified with permission from Lifelearn Inc.
© Copyright 2005 Lifelearn Inc.