The absorption of piroxicam into the blood of rats is significantly slower after oral administration of piroxicam beta-cyclodextrin than of free piroxicam. 2. The pharmacokinetic profiles of piroxicam in rat lymph were very similar in both groups. 3. Bioavailability of piroxicam in plasma is higher after treatment with the inclusion product than with free piroxicam. On the other hand, bioavailability in lymph is higher when free piroxicam is administered.