Piroxicam

Anti-inflammatory painkiller (NSAID)
PRESCRIPTION ONLY IN INDIA

Piroxicam is a anti-inflammatory painkiller (NSAID) found in 1 medicine sold in India, such as Dolonex 20. Below: what it is for, how it works, how to take it, side effects, interactions and pregnancy advice.

What it is used for

Relieves pain and stiffness in arthritis.

How it works

A long-acting NSAID for arthritis pain, taken once a day; higher stomach risk than many others.

How to take it

Usually 10 to 20 mg once a day after food. Gels for local pain.

Common side effects

  • Indigestion
  • Nausea
  • Stomach pain

Get medical help straight away if

  • Black stools
  • Severe skin reaction
  • Swelling of legs

Be careful

Take after food; risk of stomach bleeding.

Other medicines and interactions

Avoid with other NSAIDs and blood thinners; kidney risk with diuretics and ACE inhibitors.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Avoid in pregnancy, especially the last three months, and while breastfeeding.

Brands of Piroxicam (1)

Dolonex 20

Common questions

What is Piroxicam used for?

Relieves pain and stiffness in arthritis.

How does Piroxicam work?

A long-acting NSAID for arthritis pain, taken once a day; higher stomach risk than many others.

How should I take Piroxicam?

Usually 10 to 20 mg once a day after food. Gels for local pain.

What are the side effects of Piroxicam?

Common: Indigestion, nausea, stomach pain. Get help straight away for: Black stools, severe skin reaction, swelling of legs.

Does Piroxicam interact with other medicines?

Avoid with other NSAIDs and blood thinners; kidney risk with diuretics and ACE inhibitors.

Is Piroxicam safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Avoid in pregnancy, especially the last three months, and while breastfeeding.

Does Piroxicam need a prescription in India?

Yes. In India it is a prescription (Schedule H) medicine, so a pharmacist should sell it only with a doctor's prescription.

Which brands contain Piroxicam?

Dolonex 20.

Sources and further reading

NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu from standard prescribing information.

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For information only, not medical advice. This page is a plain-language summary written from standard prescribing information and the public guides linked below. Brands sometimes change their formula, so always check the composition printed on the pack. Doses here are typical adult doses; yours may differ. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without your doctor or pharmacist, and keep all medicines away from children. In an emergency, call 112 (India) or your local emergency number.