While the brand-name Feldene 0.5% gel was discontinued in December 2022, generic piroxicam 0.5% gel continues to be available. This means that piroxicam, the active ingredient, remains accessible in its topical gel form.
Is Piroxicam Being Discontinued?
The availability of piroxicam depends on whether you are referring to the brand-name product or its generic counterpart, specifically in its 0.5% gel formulation.
Status of Piroxicam Gel Formulations
To provide clarity on the current status, here's a breakdown:
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Feldene 0.5% Gel (Brand-Name)
- Discontinuation: This specific brand-name formulation of piroxicam gel was officially set to be discontinued in December 2022.
- Stock Exhaustion: Following its discontinuation, remaining stocks of Feldene 0.5% gel were expected to be exhausted shortly thereafter.
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Generic Piroxicam 0.5% Gel
- Continued Availability: Crucially, generic piroxicam 0.5% gel remains on the market and continues to be available. This ensures that the therapeutic option of topical piroxicam is still accessible to patients.
What This Means for Patients and Prescribers
This distinction is important for individuals who use piroxicam 0.5% gel for conditions like osteoarthritis. Patients who previously relied on the brand-name Feldene 0.5% gel would typically transition to the generic version. Healthcare professionals can guide patients through this change, ensuring a seamless switch to the generic equivalent without interruption in treatment.
In summary, while a specific brand of piroxicam gel (Feldene) has been discontinued, the general availability of piroxicam in gel form is maintained through its generic formulations.
