Health Information

Piroxicam

Drug Information

Piroxicam is used to treat Reference rheumatoid arthritis and Reference osteoarthritis. It is in a class of medications known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Common brand names:

Feldene

Summary of Interactions with Vitamins, Herbs, & Foods

Reference What Are Nutrient Interactions

Types of interactions: Beneficial Adverse Check

Replenish Depleted Nutrients

none

Reduce Side Effects

none

Support Medicine

none

Reduces Effectiveness

none

Potential Negative Interaction

Reference Potassium

An 85-year-old man developed higher than normal blood levels of potassium following several months of treatment with piroxicam.¹ Until more is known, people taking piroxicam for long periods should have their blood checked regularly for high potassium levels and may need to avoid high potassium intake with the guidance of a health practitioner.

The interaction is supported by preliminary, weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific evidence.

Explanation Required

Reference Folic Acid

Piroxicam may prevent inflammation by blocking the activity of enzymes that depend on folic acid.² However, other studies show that people taking NSAIDs such as Reference aspirin have lower than normal levels of folic acid in their red blood cells.³ Further research is needed to determine whether supplemental folic acid prevents a deficiency of the vitamin or indirectly reduces the beneficial effects of piroxicam.

The interaction is supported by preliminary, weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific evidence.
Reference White Willow

Willow bark contains salicin, which is related to Reference aspirin. Both salicin and aspirin produce anti-inflammatory effects after they have been converted to salicylic acid in the body. Taking aspirin significantly lowers blood levels of piroxicam and increases the potential for adverse side effects.⁴ Though no studies have investigated interactions between willow bark and piroxicam, people taking the drug should avoid the herb until more information is available.

The interaction is supported by preliminary, weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific evidence.

The Drug-Nutrient Interactions table may not include every possible interaction. Taking medicines with meals, on an empty stomach, or with alcohol may influence their effects. For details, refer to the manufacturers’ package information as these are not covered in this table. If you take medications, always discuss the potential risks and benefits of adding a new supplement with your doctor or pharmacist.

References

1. Miller KP, Lazar EJ, Fotino S. Severe hyperkalemia during piroxicam therapy. Arch Int Med 1984;144:2414–5.

2. Baggott JE, Morgan SL, Ha T, et al. Inhibition of folate-dependent enzymes by non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Biochem J 1992;282:197–202.

3. Alter HJ, Zvaifler NJ, Rath CE. Interrelationship of rheumatoid arthritis, folic acid, and aspirin. Blood 1971;38:405–16.

4. Sifton DW, ed. Physicians Desk Reference. Montvale, NJ: Medical Economics Company, Inc., 2000, 2342–4.

Last Review: 11-07-2012

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The information presented in Aisle7 is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over-the-counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires June 2013.

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