Piroxicam overdose

Definition

Piroxicam is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to relieve pain and swelling. Piroxicam overdose occurs when someone takes too much of this drug.

This is for information only and not for use in the treatment or management of an actual poison exposure. If you have an exposure, you should call your local emergency number (such as 911) or the National Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.

Alternative Names

Feldene overdose

Poisonous Ingredient

Piroxicam

Where Found

Piroxicam is also sold under the brand name Feldene.

Symptoms

• Airways and lungs
  • Rapid breathing
  • Slow, labored breathing
  • Wheezing
• Eyes, ears, nose, and throat
  • Ringing in the ears
  • Blurred vision
• Nervous system
  • Agitation
  • Coma
  • Confusion
  • Convulsions
  • Drowsiness
  • Headache (severe)
  • Incoherence (not understandable)
  • Movement disorder
  • Unsteadiness
• Skin
  • Rash
• Stomach and intestines
  • Diarrhea
  • Nausea
  • Stomach pain (possible bleeding in the stomach and intestines)
  • Vomiting

Before Calling Emergency

Determine the following information:

• The patient's age, weight, and condition
• Name of product (as well as the ingredients and strength if known)
• The time it was swallowed
• The amount swallowed
• If the medication was prescribed for the patient

Poison Control

The National Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) can be called from anywhere in the United States. This national hotline number will let you talk to experts in poisoning. They will give you further instructions.

This is a free and confidential service. All local poison control centers in the United States use this national number. You should call if you have any questions about poisoning or poison prevention. It does NOT need to be an emergency. You can call for any reason, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Take the container with you to the hospital, if possible.

See: Poison control center - emergency number

What to Expect at the Emergency Room

The health care provider will measure and monitor the patient's vital signs, including temperature, pulse, breathing rate, and blood pressure. Symptoms will be treated as appropriate. The patient may receive:

• Activated charcoal
• Laxative
• Tube through the mouth or nose into the stomach to wash out the stomach (gastric lavage)

Outlook (Prognosis)

Recovery is likely.

References

Goldfrank LR, ed. Goldfrank's Toxicologic Emergencies. 8th ed. New York, NY: McGraw Hill; 2006.

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