Basic Feldene Information

International Nonproprietary Name (INN): Piroxicam Brand Names Available in Canada: | Brand Name | Dosage Forms & Packaging | |-----------------|----------------------------------------------------------| | Feldene | Capsules: 10 mg, 20 mg (blister packs, bottles) | | Brexin | Tablets: 20 mg | | Felden | Capsules: 10 mg, 20 mg | | Piroxicam HEXAL | Tablets: 20 mg | | Flogofort | Tablets/capsules: 20 mg | | Feldene Dispersible | Dispersible tablets: 20 mg | ATC Code and Classification: - ATC Code: M01AC01 - Classification: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) for use in rheumatic diseases, pain, and inflammation Forms & Dosages Available: | Form | Dosages | Common Packaging | |------------------------|--------------|-------------------------------| | Capsules | 10 mg, 20 mg | Blister strips, bottles | | Tablets | 10 mg, 20 mg | Blister packs | | Dispersible tablets | 20 mg | Blisters | | Gel/Cream | 0.5%–1% | Tubes (20–50g, varies) | Local Manufacturers & Global Suppliers: - Pfizer, Sandoz, Hexal, Teva, Mylan – leading international suppliers. - Local generics: Zentiva (Romania), Stada (Germany), Egis (Hungary), Sun Pharma (India), Medochemie (Cyprus), Krka (Slovenia). Regulatory & Approval Status: - Feldene is classified as a prescription-only medication across Canada, ensuring that proper guidance is provided by healthcare professionals before use.

Availability & Price Landscape

Canadians have access to Feldene through major pharmacy chains such as Shoppers Drug Mart, Rexall, and London Drugs. These pharmacies are prevalent across various provinces, making it relatively easy to find Feldene products. The availability could vary, however, so it’s prudent to check with local branches or online inventories. Here are some top pharmacy locations by province where Feldene can be found:

• Ontario: Shoppers Drug Mart at Queen Street
• British Columbia: London Drugs on Robson Street
• Alberta: Rexall in downtown Calgary

Online Pharmacy Trends in Canada

The rise of online pharmacies has transformed how Canadians access medications, including Feldene. Numerous platforms are now available, although provincial regulations heavily influence how these services operate. Most online pharmacies require a prescription for Feldene to ensure safe usage. Popular online pharmacies in Canada include Well.ca and Pharmacy.ca, offering convenient delivery options. However, patients should confirm that any online pharmacy they use is licensed and meets regulatory standards to avoid counterfeit products.

Price Ranges by Package Size

Price differences for Feldene formulations like capsules, tablets, and gel can vary significantly across provinces. The average costs can influence a patient's choice, especially when budgeting for ongoing treatments. Here’s a comparative table showcasing typical prices in major provinces: | Province | 10 mg Capsules | 20 mg Capsules | 20 mg Tablets | Gel | |-----------------|----------------|----------------|----------------|------------| | Ontario | $12.00 | $18.00 | $16.00 | $15.00 | | British Columbia | $11.50 | $17.50 | $15.50 | $14.50 | | Alberta | $12.50 | $19.00 | $16.50 | $16.00 | Prices can fluctuate, so it is advisable to check with pharmacies or online platforms regularly for the most accurate pricing. This can make a substantial difference in overall healthcare costs for those needing ongoing pain management solutions or dealing with conditions like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. For more information on Feldene pricing and availability, it might be helpful to refer to local pharmacy directories or health resources for up-to-date details, ensuring informed decisions are made.

Dosage & Administration

Standard Regimens per Canadian Guidelines

In Canada, the standard dosages for Feldene (Piroxicam) are established by Health Canada and are tailored to address various conditions effectively. For adults, typical dosages are:

• Osteoarthritis: 20 mg once daily
• Rheumatoid Arthritis: 20 mg once daily, which can be split into two doses of 10 mg to lessen gastrointestinal discomfort.

Consistency in dosing is crucial, and while the maximum recommended dose is 20 mg per day, some patients may see benefit from as little as 10 mg daily. It’s essential to monitor patient response and adjust as necessary.

Adjustments by Patient Type

Certain patient populations may require adjustments in their Feldene dosage to optimize safety and efficacy:

• Elderly Patients: It is advisable to start with the lowest effective dose to minimize risks, particularly concerning gastrointestinal and renal effects.
• Patients with Renal Impairment: Caution is recommended, and regular monitoring of renal function is advisable, as elimination may be impaired and risks of toxicity increased.
• Pediatric Use: Generally not recommended due to insufficient safety and efficacy data.

Contraindications & Side Effects

Common Side Effects

While Feldene is effective for managing pain and inflammation, it can lead to mild to moderate side effects, which include:

• Gastrointestinal: Nausea, abdominal pain, dyspepsia, and gastric irritation
• CNS Effects: Dizziness or drowsiness
• Others: Skin rash, edema, and increased blood pressure

Most reactions are manageable, but patients should be informed to report any severe or persistent symptoms to their healthcare provider.

Rare but Serious Side Effects

Though infrequent, serious side effects associated with Feldene usage have been noted. These may include:

• Gastrointestinal bleeding or ulceration
• Severe allergic reactions
• Kidney failure
• Elevated liver enzymes

Pharmacovigilance data underscore the importance of patient monitoring for these risks, particularly in at-risk populations.

Comparable Medicines in Canada

Alternatives Table

Drug	INN	Brand Examples	Notes
Ibuprofen	Ibuprofen	Nurofen, Advil	Available OTC in lower doses, short half-life.
Diclofenac	Diclofenac	Voltaren, Cataflam	Primarily prescription, similar indications as Feldene.
Meloxicam	Meloxicam	Mobic, Melox	Once-daily dosing, generally lower GI risk.
Naproxen	Naproxen	Aleve, Naprosyn	Longer half-life, can be taken twice daily.

Pros and Cons List

Choosing Feldene over alternatives comes with its set of advantages and disadvantages:

• Pros: Effective for long-term analgesia and anti-inflammatory effects, once-daily dosing due to a lengthy half-life.
• Cons: Risk of GI issues, potential for renal impairment, and higher contraindications in certain populations.

Consulting with a healthcare professional is advisable for an individualized approach to therapy based on patient needs and history.

Current Research & Trends

Major Canadian or International Studies (2022–2025)

Recent studies highlight Feldene's efficacy and safety across various applications. Notably:

• A Canadian study demonstrated persistent pain relief in osteoarthritis patients over extended periods.
• International research reinforces Feldene's role in managing acute inflammatory conditions while establishing its safety profile.
• Subsequent findings suggest additional advantages in combination therapies for chronic conditions.

Ongoing research aims to refine usage recommendations and dosing strategies to lower side effect profiles.

Common Patient Questions in Canada

Here are some frequently asked questions about Feldene by Canadian consumers:

• Can Feldene be taken with other medications? Consultation with a healthcare provider is crucial due to potential drug interactions.
• Is Feldene safe for long-term use? Long-term use should be monitored closely by a physician to manage risks.
• What should I do if I miss a dose? Take it as soon as remembered unless it's close to the next scheduled dose; do not double up.
• Can I take Feldene for acute pain? Feldene is generally used for chronic conditions but may be prescribed off-label for acute pain.

These queries reflect the concerns of patients navigating treatment options while ensuring safe usage of this NSAID.

Regulatory Status

Health Canada Approval Process

Understanding the approval journey for Feldene, also known as Piroxicam, through Health Canada can shed light on its safety and efficacy. The path involves several key steps:

• Preclinical Studies: Initial laboratory studies assess the drug's safety profile in vitro and in vivo before human trials.
• Clinical Trials: Typically consist of three phases:
  • Phase I: Focuses on safety and dosage in healthy volunteers.
  • Phase II: Evaluates efficacy and side effects in a small patient population.
  • Phase III: Involves larger groups to confirm effectiveness, monitor side effects, and compare with standard or placebo treatments.
• Submission of New Drug Application (NDA): After successful trials, a comprehensive NDA is submitted to Health Canada.
• Post-Marketing Surveillance: Continuous monitoring once the drug is on the market to ensure ongoing safety.

DIN Number Relevance

A Drug Identification Number (DIN) is crucial for every marketed drug in Canada, including Feldene. Here’s why it matters:

• Safe Use: It helps healthcare professionals and pharmacists accurately prescribe and dispense the medication.
• Tracking: Facilitates follow-up reporting on drug safety and effectiveness, ensuring that any adverse effects can be monitored.
• Regulatory Compliance: Only products with a valid DIN have met Health Canada’s rigorous standards.

Visual Recommendations

Infographic Ideas for Canadian Context

Creating infographics can simplify access to important information about Feldene for Canadian consumers. Consider these ideas:

• Patient Usage Statistics: Illustrate the prevalence of conditions treated by Feldene, such as arthritis.
• Dosage Charts: Easy-to-read visuals matching ages and conditions to appropriate dosages, e.g., Feldene 20 mg tablets or capsules.
• Side Effect Profiles: Present the common side effects, using icons and simple text to make information easily digestible.

Buying & Storage Advice

In-store vs. Online Canadian Purchase Tips

When considering where to buy Feldene, either in-store or online, keep these tips in mind:

• In-store: Visit reputable pharmacies and verify their licensing.
• Online: Stick to well-known websites. Look for Canadian pharmacies that provide a DIN and have clear contact information.
• Counterfeit Awareness: Be cautious of prices that seem too good to be true, as they may indicate counterfeit products.

Proper Storage with Canadian Climate Considerations

Storing Feldene correctly is essential for maintaining its efficacy, particularly given the varied Canadian climate. Here’s how:

• Store at controlled room temperature, ideally around 25°C (77°F), with allowances for 15–30°C (59–86°F).
• Keeps the medication in its original packaging, away from moisture, and out of direct sunlight.
• In colder regions, ensure that it doesn't freeze, especially formulations like Feldene gel.

Guidelines for Proper Use

Canadian Doctor/Pharmacist Advice Style

For the safe and effective use of Feldene, it's crucial to follow guidelines recommended by Canadian healthcare professionals:

• Always use the lowest effective dose for the shortest needed duration.
• Regularly consult your healthcare provider to review ongoing treatment plans.
• Be aware of potential side effects and communicate any unusual symptoms to your doctor.

Delivery Options Table

City	Region	Delivery Time
Toronto	Ontario	5–7 days
Vancouver	British Columbia	5–7 days
Montreal	Quebec	5–7 days
Calgary	Alberta	5–7 days
Ottawa	Ontario	5–7 days
Edmonton	Alberta	5–7 days
Winnipeg	Manitoba	5–7 days
Quebec City	Quebec	5–9 days
Halifax	Nova Scotia	5–9 days
Victoria	British Columbia	5–9 days
St. John's	Newfoundland	5–9 days
Saskatoon	Saskatchewan	5–9 days
Regina	Saskatchewan	5–9 days