Basic Feldene Information

• INN (International Nonproprietary Name): Piroxicam
• Brand names available in Australia: Feldene, Brexin, and Felden
• ATC Code: M01AC01
• Forms & dosages: Tablets (10 mg, 20 mg), capsules (10 mg, 20 mg), dispersible tablets (20 mg), cream/gel (0.5%–1%)
• Manufacturers in Australia: Pfizer, Sandoz, Hexal, Teva, Mylan
• Registration status in Australia: Prescription-only
• OTC / Rx classification: Prescription-only (Rx)

High-Risk Groups

When considering the use of Feldene, specific risks emerge, particularly for high-risk groups. - The elderly may face increased susceptibility to gastrointestinal (GI) complications. - Pregnant women should avoid Feldene due to potential risks to the foetus, especially during the third trimester. - Individuals with chronic conditions such as kidney or liver diseases should use Feldene cautiously, as their ability to metabolise and eliminate the drug may be impaired, raising the likelihood of adverse effects.

Interaction With Activities

Feldene can significantly impact activities requiring alertness, such as driving or operating machinery. - Users may experience side effects like dizziness or drowsiness, which can hinder performance and safety. - Australian workplace safety laws mandate that workers are fit and alert while on the job, so these effects should not be taken lightly. - If you are prescribed Feldene, it’s crucial to monitor your reactions to the medication before engaging in any critical tasks.

Q&A — “Can I Drive After Taking It in Australia?”

Q: Can I drive after taking Feldene?
A: It’s advised to avoid driving if you experience dizziness or drowsiness as side effects.

Mechanism & Pharmacology

Simplified explanation

Feldene, or piroxicam, acts as a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), targeting the body's cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes. These enzymes play a crucial role in producing prostaglandins, which are compounds that promote inflammation, pain, and fever. By inhibiting COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes, Feldene reduces the production of these inflammatory substances in the body.

This action leads to a notable decrease in pain and swelling associated with conditions such as arthritis and acute injuries. The specific targeting of COX enzymes helps ensure that pain relief is achieved with a reasonable balance between efficacy and safety, which is essential in the management of chronic pain conditions.

Clinical terms

Understanding some pharmacological terms can clarify Feldene’s clinical implications:

• Anti-inflammatory: Refers to the action of reducing inflammation, which is often a response to injury or disease.
• Analgesic properties: Indicates the ability to relieve pain without causing loss of consciousness, making Feldene effective for such needs.
• NSAID: A class of medications that provide analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects without the steroid ingredients.

These terms highlight the significance of Feldene in treating pain and inflammation effectively within clinical settings.

Indications & Off-Label Uses

Approved indications by TGA

The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) in Australia approves Feldene for several indications, primarily focussing on arthritis conditions. It is indicated for:

• Osteoarthritis
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Acute pain management

Each of these conditions benefits from Feldene's unique anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, providing essential relief for patients suffering from chronic and acute pain.

Off-label uses in Australian clinical practice

Beyond its approved indications, Feldene is sometimes used off-label within Australian clinical practice. Practitioners may prescribe Feldene for:

• Acute gout flare-ups, where inflammation is a significant concern.
• Post-surgical pain management, aiding recovery without traditional opioids.

Anecdotal evidence suggests that its efficacy in managing such conditions makes it a valuable option when traditional treatments are ineffective or contraindicated.

Key Clinical Findings

Recent studies between 2022 and 2025 have provided significant insights into the clinical effectiveness and safety profile of Feldene. Key findings indicate:

• Feldene was shown to be effective in reducing pain levels in patients with chronic arthritis compared to placebo and other NSAIDs.
• It demonstrates a favourable safety profile, with lesser gastrointestinal side effects relative to some competitors, likely due to its longer half-life.
• Comparative studies emphasise its efficacy against common NSAIDs like ibuprofen and diclofenac, suggesting that Feldene may be preferred for patients with specific chronic pain profiles.

These findings enhance the understanding of the importance of Feldene in managing pain-related conditions effectively.

Alternatives Matrix

PBS-listed alternatives comparison table

Pros and cons checklist

• Pros of Feldene: Effective for chronic pain, once-daily dosing.
• Cons of Feldene: Potential for gastrointestinal side effects; longer half-life may lead to accumulation.
• Comparison to alternatives like ibuprofen shows Feldene's potential for fewer GI side effects.

This checklist serves to assist patients in making informed decisions when considering Feldene relative to alternative NSAIDs.

Common Questions

Understanding Feldene can be a bit tricky for patients. Here are some of the most common queries:

• What is Feldene used for?
• How should Feldene be administered?
• What are the typical side effects of Feldene?
• Are there specific interactions with other medications?
• Can Feldene be safely taken during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?
• What should I do if I miss a dose?
• What are the long-term effects of taking Feldene?

Pain management and inflammation relief are key interests, with questions often revolving around dosage and safety.

Suggested Visual Content

Visual aids can greatly enhance understanding. Some suggested content includes:

• An infographic detailing the PBS pricing tiers for Feldene
• Visual maps showing pharmacy networks across Australia where Feldene is available
• Charts comparing Feldene with other alternatives like ibuprofen and diclofenac
• Infographics on potential side effects and contraindications

Utilising these diverse formats can help simplify the information and make it more accessible to patients.

Registration & Regulation

TGA Approval

Feldene, containing piroxicam, obtained approval from the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) in Australia after a rigorous review process. This approval confirms its safety and efficacy for treating conditions like arthritis and pain management. Such regulation ensures that Feldene meets strict standards for quality, guaranteeing its reliability for Australian consumers.

PBS Subsidy Details

Feldene can qualify for Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) subsidies under specific medical conditions such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. This support is aimed at making treatment more affordable for patients, which is crucial for those needing long-term therapy. Patients are encouraged to discuss their eligibility with their healthcare provider.

Storage & Handling

Household Storage in Australian Climate

Given Australia's often extreme heat and humidity, proper storage of Feldene is essential for maintaining its effectiveness. Store capsules and tablets in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, ideally at a controlled temperature between 15°C and 25°C. Keeping them in their original packaging also helps protect against moisture.

Cold-Chain Handling for Pharmacies

Pharmacies must exercise stringent protocols when handling Feldene, especially its temperature-sensitive formulations. Ideal conditions include storing products in a temperature-controlled environment, ensuring they do not exceed 30°C. Regular checks on refrigeration units can prevent potential degradation of product quality.

Guidelines for Proper Use

Australian Pharmacist Counselling Style

When counselling patients about Feldene, Australian pharmacists follow a patient-centric approach, emphasising clear communication. This includes discussing dosage, potential side effects, and the importance of adhering to prescribed regimens. Encouraging questions is crucial to alleviate any patient concerns.

Patient Advice from PBS and National Health Authorities

Healthcare authorities provide guidelines that stress the importance of monitoring for adverse effects, especially gastrointestinal issues. Recommendations often include the use of the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration necessary, aiming to minimise risk while maximizing therapeutic benefits.

City Delivery Information