Long-term experience with piroxicam in osteoarthritis

Area of Science:

• Rheumatology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Osteoarthritis (OA) is a prevalent degenerative joint disease.
• Effective long-term management strategies for OA pain and function are crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the long-term efficacy and safety of piroxicam 20 mg once daily in OA patients.
• To assess patient-reported outcomes and functional improvements over extended treatment periods.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 30 osteoarthritis patients received piroxicam 20 mg daily.
• Treatment duration varied, with a mean of six years.
• Efficacy and safety were assessed through patient-reported outcomes, pain scores, swelling, and functional activity levels.

Main Results:

• Over 93% of patients reported feeling well at the final visit.
• Significant improvements in joint pain, swelling, and functional activity were sustained.
• Most side effects were mild to moderate, predominantly gastrointestinal.

Conclusions:

• Piroxicam 20 mg once daily offers long-term efficacy and a favorable safety profile for osteoarthritis management.
• Patients demonstrated a preference for continuing piroxicam over alternative treatments.
• Sustained symptom relief and functional improvement support its role in chronic OA care.