Long-term experience with piroxicam in osteoarthritis

Abstract

The long-term efficacy and safety of piroxicam 20 mg once daily in the treatment of osteoarthritis was evaluated in 30 patients--eight for three to five years, seven for six years, and 15 for more than seven years--for a total mean duration of six years. More than 93 percent (28/30) reported feeling well at the last visit, while 12 said they were either asymptomatic or had only mild symptoms. Total joint pain scores, total joint swelling and specific functional activity levels improved and remained improved throughout the study period. Side effects were relatively frequent but mostly in the mild to moderate class (159/166) and these were mostly gastrointestinal. Patients preferred remaining on the drug for a mean of six years rather than changing to alternative therapies made available to them.