Drug Class: NSAID (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug) | Form: Oral Dispersible Tablet | Prescription Status: Prescription Only (Rx) — DRAP Registered
What is Zerax 20mg Tablet? Zerax 20mg contains Piroxicam — a long-acting NSAID that provides full-day pain and inflammation relief with a single daily dose. Its dispersible tablet form dissolves easily in water, making it convenient for patients who have difficulty swallowing standard tablets. Piroxicam is particularly effective for chronic inflammatory joint conditions where consistent around-the-clock anti-inflammatory coverage is needed. Due to its potent NSAID activity, it must always be taken with food, at the lowest effective dose, and under medical supervision.
What is Zerax 20mg Used For?
- Rheumatoid arthritis — painful swollen joints (ریمیٹائیڈ گٹھیا)
- Osteoarthritis — joint wear, pain, and stiffness (جوڑوں کا درد)
- Ankylosing spondylitis — inflammatory spine and back stiffness (ریڑھ کی ہڈی کی سوزش)
- Acute musculoskeletal disorders — sprains, strains, and soft tissue injuries (پٹھوں کی چوٹ)
- Acute gout — sudden severe joint pain and swelling (گنٹھیا کا شدید درد)
- Post-operative and post-traumatic pain with inflammation
How Does it Work? Piroxicam inhibits both COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes — blocking prostaglandin production at sites of inflammation. Reduced prostaglandins lower pain receptor sensitivity, decrease local swelling, and reduce fever. Piroxicam has a long half-life of approximately 50 hours, which allows once-daily dosing while maintaining steady anti-inflammatory levels throughout the day and night — an advantage for chronic conditions requiring consistent coverage.
Dosage and Administration
⚠️ Always take with food or after a meal. Never exceed 20mg per day. Avoid combining with other NSAIDs or Aspirin above 75mg. Use at the lowest effective dose for the shortest time necessary.
| Indication | Usual Adult Dose | Frequency | Maximum Daily Dose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rheumatoid / Osteoarthritis | 20mg | Once daily | 20mg per day |
| Ankylosing spondylitis | 20mg | Once daily | 20mg per day |
| Acute gout | 40mg on day one | Then 20mg once daily | 20mg per day after day one |
| Acute musculoskeletal pain | 20mg | Once daily | 20mg per day |
Active Ingredients
| Ingredient | Strength |
|---|---|
| Piroxicam | 20mg |
Who Should NOT Take Zerax 20mg?
- Allergy to Piroxicam, Aspirin, or any other NSAID
- Active stomach ulcer or history of gastrointestinal bleeding
- Severe heart failure or established cardiovascular disease
- Severe kidney or liver impairment
- Third trimester of pregnancy
- Aspirin-sensitive asthma
- Children and adolescents under 18 years
- Patients with history of gastrointestinal perforation or bleeding with prior NSAID use
Side Effects
Common: Stomach discomfort, nausea, indigestion, heartburn, mild dizziness or headache — significantly reduced by always taking with food.
Serious — Stop and seek emergency help immediately: Dark or black tarry stools or vomiting blood (پیٹ سے خون — فوری مدد لیں), severe upper abdominal pain, yellowing of skin or eyes (یرقان), chest pain or sudden breathlessness, significant ankle or facial swelling, sudden worsening of asthma after taking tablet, severe skin blistering or peeling, significantly reduced urination indicating kidney problems.
Drug Interactions
| Medicine | Interaction |
|---|---|
| Other NSAIDs or Aspirin above 75mg | Greatly increased gastrointestinal bleeding risk — never combine |
| Warfarin / blood thinners | Increased bleeding risk — close INR monitoring required |
| Antihypertensives (ACE inhibitors, ARBs, diuretics) | Piroxicam reduces their effectiveness and raises blood pressure |
| Methotrexate | Piroxicam increases Methotrexate toxicity — avoid combination |
| Lithium | Piroxicam increases Lithium blood levels — monitor closely |
| Corticosteroids (Prednisolone) | Increased risk of stomach ulceration and bleeding |
| SSRIs (Fluoxetine, Sertraline) | Increased gastrointestinal bleeding risk with NSAID combination |
| Cyclosporine | Increased kidney toxicity risk — monitor closely |
Storage: Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place. Protect from moisture and direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children (بچوں کی پہنچ سے دور رکھیں). Do not use after expiry date.
FAQs
Q: How do I take Zerax dispersible tablet correctly? Dissolve the tablet in a small glass of water and drink immediately — this makes it easier to swallow and may reduce stomach irritation compared to standard tablets. Always take with or after food.
Q: Can I take Zerax 20mg twice daily for stronger pain relief? No — Piroxicam's maximum safe dose is 20mg once daily. Its long half-life maintains effective levels all day, so exceeding this dose significantly increases serious side effect risk without additional benefit.
Q: Can Zerax be used long-term for arthritis management? Long-term use is possible under regular doctor supervision — however periodic monitoring of kidney function, blood pressure, and stomach health is essential as prolonged NSAID use carries cumulative risks.
⚕️ Medical Disclaimer: This information is for general awareness only and does not replace medical advice. Always consult a qualified doctor or pharmacist before taking any prescription medicine.