Piroxicam and Heart Health — November 2023
November 2023 brought a focused post about piroxicam—an NSAID used for pain and arthritis—and how it can affect the heart. If you use piroxicam, this summary tells you the practical stuff: what risks were highlighted, who should be careful, and clear steps you can take right now.
The clear message: piroxicam can raise cardiovascular risk in certain people. The post explained that NSAIDs like piroxicam have been associated with higher chances of heart attack and stroke, especially when used long-term or by people with existing heart disease. That doesn’t mean everyone must stop, but it does mean thinking twice and talking to your clinician before starting or continuing it.
Who should be cautious
People with high blood pressure, previous heart attack or stroke, heart failure, or established coronary artery disease were specifically flagged. Older adults and anyone on blood pressure meds, blood thinners, or certain antidepressants were also named as groups needing extra review. The post stressed checking your full medication list—some combinations increase risk or change how piroxicam works.
Pregnant people and those with reduced kidney function were advised to avoid or limit piroxicam. For pregnancy, the post recommended discussing safer pain options with your provider because NSAIDs can affect pregnancy at certain stages. For kidneys, regular monitoring was suggested since NSAIDs can reduce kidney blood flow and worsen function.
Warning signs and monitoring
Watch for new chest pain, unexplained shortness of breath, sudden weakness, slurred speech, or swelling in the legs. Those are signals to stop the drug and seek immediate care. For less acute changes—rising blood pressure, persistent swelling, or worsening breathlessness—the post recommended contacting your prescriber right away for advice.
The post also gave practical monitoring tips: check blood pressure regularly, get periodic kidney tests if you’ll be on piroxicam, and review all other meds with your doctor or pharmacist. A simple one-line suggestion: use the lowest effective dose for the shortest time needed.
For long-term pain control, the article suggested discussing alternatives like acetaminophen for some conditions, topical NSAIDs that work locally with less systemic exposure, or non-drug approaches such as physical therapy and lifestyle changes. The point was practical: balance pain relief with safety rather than assuming a single drug is best forever.
If you’re unsure about piroxicam, call your healthcare provider and ask about your personal heart risk, possible drug interactions, and safer options. Small steps—blood pressure checks, reviewing meds, and talking to your prescriber—can make a big difference in staying safe while managing pain.
