Lornoxicam, also known as chlortenoxicam, is a potent non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that relieves moderate pain, inflammation and fever. It can be used as-needed to treat acute pain or, in smaller doses, to manage chronic inflammatory conditions such as arthritis.

Lornoxicam is commonly used to manage pain or inflammation from:

• Headaches
• Muscle strains or injuries
• Tooth or dental pain
• Post-surgical pain
• Menstrual pain
• Sciatica
• Osteoarthritis
• Rheumatoid arthritis

In many respects Lornoxicam is very similar to other NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen or aspirin. It does have some significant differences, however, primarily its potency---Lornoxicam is effective in very small doses and effects last longer than other widely available NSAIDs. This makes it more convenient in many cases, with patients achieving the same pain relief with fewer doses throughout the day.

Peak effects are typically felt within 30 minutes to one hour of taking a dose of Lornoxicam. The duration of effects may vary to some extent between individuals, but typically begin to gradually diminish after approximately 8 to 12 hours and may linger as long as 24 hours.

As with any pain medication effects are best if taken at the earliest symptoms of pain, if possible; for example, at the start of a headache or when joints start to feel stiff. Likewise if pain or inflammation is expected to continue for more than 8 to 12 hours, such as in arthritis or after a surgical procedure, taking the next dose on time is beneficial even if symptoms have not resurfaced; this method is particularly advantageous in treating inflammatory conditions.

Dosage & Administration

As mentioned above, Lornoxicam is a potent NSAID which is taken in very small doses, no more than 24 milligrams (mg) per day, compared to ibuprofen, aspirin and similar products which are often taken in the hundreds of milligrams. In otherwise healthy adults, dosing is typically as follows:

• For acute pain or fever, take 8 to 24 mg per day divided into 2 or 3 equal doses. For example, take 8 mg three times per day (every 8 hours) or 16 mg twice per day (every 12 hours). Do not exceed 24 mg in one day.
• For osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis or other chronic inflammatory conditions, take 12 to 16 mg per day divided into 2 or 3 equal doses. Do not exceed 16 mg in one day.

A glass of fluid is recommended with each dose of Lornoxicam. Food is optional, but may reduce or eliminate any gastrointestinal side effects, such as nausea or heartburn.

Warnings & Side Effects

While most people can take Lornoxicam without any problems, it is not the ideal choice for everyone. Avoid using Lornoxicam if there is a history of:

• Allergic reaction to other NSAIDs
• Severe kidney, liver or heart impairment
• Stomach ulcers or gastrointestinal bleeding

Lornoxicam should be strictly avoided during the third trimester of pregnancy. Speak with a doctor about potential risks before using during the first or second trimester, or if breastfeeding.

Side effects from Lornoxicam are very similar to those experienced with other NSAIDs. Most people experience no side effects at all, but some individuals do experience:

• Abdominal pain
• Indigestion (heartburn)
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Headache

Many people don't know that all NSAIDs can increase blood pressure, which may be a concern for those who have hypertension.

Risk of severe side effects, such as gastrointestinal bleeding, heart palpitations and kidney damage increase significantly if the medication is taken in very high doses or used daily for a long period (months or years). When Lornoxicam is prescribed long-term, regular doctor visits are highly advisable to monitor for developing problems, particularly in elderly patients.

Lornoxicam may interact with other medications; check with a doctor or pharmacist before use if taking prescription medications, particularly:

• Anticoagulants
• Diuretics
• ACE inhibitors
• Diabetic drugs
• Immunosuppressant drugs

Patients undergoing any kind of cancer treatment should also speak with a doctor before using Lornoxicam to ensure there will be no negative drug interactions.