Zicam 20mg Tablet (PIROXICAM)

What is the difference between Zicam and nimesulide?
Both Zicam and nimesulide are pain killers. However, Zicam is a non-selective COX (cyclooxygenase -an enzyme responsible for inflammation and pain) inhibitor whereas nimesulide is selective to the COX-2 enzyme. This selectivity of nimesulide is supposed to decrease the side effects as compared to Zicam tablet. It should not be used in children below 12 years of age.

Can I use Zicam if I have peptic ulcer disease?
No. Zicam is contraindicated in cases of active peptic ulcer disease. Zicam is known to cause gastric ulceration and bleeding.

What are the serious side effects of Zicam?
GI discomfort and, rarely, serious GI side effects, such as ulcers and bleeding, serious skin side effects such as exfoliative, Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS), and toxic epidermal necrolysis, liver failure, renal damage.

Is Zicam a blood thinner?
No. Zicam is not a blood thinner. It is a pain killer. It should be avoided in a patient with a bleeding disorder.

Can Zicam be used to treat menstrual cramp?
Zicam is not approved for the treatment of menstrual cramps. Research studies have shown that Zicam tablet is quite effective in significantly decreasing the menstrual cramps.

Who should not take a Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID)/ Zicam?
Patients who had an asthma attack, hives, or other allergic reaction with aspirin or any other NSAID medicine or for pain right before or after heart bypass surgery.