Etoricoxib

Rheumatoid Arthritis, Ankylosing Spondylitis ... show more

DRUG STATUS

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Approvals

UK(BNF)

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Essential Medicine

NO

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Teratogenicity

Unlisted

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Pharmaceutical Class

N/A

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Drug Ingredient

Etoricoxib

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Summary

  • Etoricoxib is used to ease pain and reduce swelling caused by several types of arthritis including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and gout. It can also help alleviate pain after dental surgery.

  • Etoricoxib works by blocking the body's production of substances that cause inflammation. Your body breaks down this medicine using its natural processes, involving a specific enzyme.

  • Etoricoxib is taken orally with or without food. The dosage depends on the condition being treated. For example, for sudden severe gout pain, it's taken for eight days, while for dental surgery, it's taken for three days. Your doctor will advise the right amount.

  • Common side effects of Etoricoxib include fatigue, dizziness, abdominal pain, nausea, and diarrhea. Less common effects include mood changes, appetite changes, and trouble sleeping. Rare but serious side effects include liver damage, severe skin reactions, and blood clots.

  • Etoricoxib should not be taken by people with serious liver problems, poor kidney function, active stomach ulcers, or bleeding. It's not safe for pregnant women in their last three months or those breastfeeding. If you're taking any other medications, especially blood thinners, consult your doctor before starting Etoricoxib.

Indications and Purpose

What is Etoricoxib used for?

Etoricoxib is a medicine that helps reduce pain and swelling caused by several types of arthritis (osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and gout) in adults and teens 16 and older. It can also ease pain after dental surgery in adults and teens 16 and older.

How does Etoricoxib work?

Etoricoxib is a medicine that reduces pain and swelling. It works by blocking the body's production of substances that cause inflammation. Your body breaks down this medicine using its natural processes, and one important part of that process involves a specific enzyme. It's not safe for women who are trying to get pregnant or are pregnant in their last three months.

Is Etoricoxib effective?

Etoricoxib is a medicine that helps ease the pain of several types of arthritis (osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and gout) in adults and older teens. The amount you take depends on the type of arthritis and how much pain you have. For osteoarthritis, you might start with a lower dose and take more if needed. For rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and more severe pain like after dental surgery, a higher dose is usually needed. For a gout attack, the dose is even higher. A doctor will tell you the right amount to take.

How does one know if Etoricoxib is working?

The benefit is evaluated through the reduction of pain, swelling, or stiffness associated with the treated condition. Regular follow-ups with a doctor help assess progress 

Directions for Use

What is the usual dose of Etoricoxib?

Etoricoxib is a medicine for adult joint pain. Kids under 16 can't take it. The amount you take depends on what hurts: For most joint pain, you start with a low dose and may need more. For sudden, severe pain (like gout), a higher dose is used for a short time. Never take more than the doctor tells you.

How do I take Etoricoxib?

Etoricoxib is taken orally, with or without food. Taking it without food may speed up its effects. No specific food restrictions are necessary unless advised by a doctor

For how long do I take Etoricoxib?

Etoricoxib is a medicine for pain and inflammation. How long you take it depends on why you're taking it. For sudden, severe gout pain, it's eight days. After dental surgery, it's only three days. For long-term conditions like arthritis, take it for the shortest time needed and the lowest dose that works. Your doctor should regularly check if you still need it.

How long does it take for Etoricoxib to start working?

Etoricoxib's pain-relief effects may begin as early as 24 minutes after administration, depending on the condition being treated

How should I store Etoricoxib?

Store etoricoxib in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. It does not require special storage conditions 

Warnings and Precautions

Who should avoid taking Etoricoxib?

Etoricoxib is a medicine with some important restrictions. It shouldn't be used by people with serious liver problems, poor kidney function, children, those with active stomach ulcers or bleeding, or pregnant women in their last three months or breastfeeding. Older adults, people with a history of stomach problems, and those taking other similar medicines need to be extra careful. During the first six months of pregnancy, it should only be used if absolutely necessary, at the lowest possible dose, for the shortest time.

Can I take Etoricoxib with other prescription drugs?

Etoricoxib can interact badly with some other medicines. Taking it with rifampicin might make etoricoxib less effective. It can also increase bleeding risk if you're on blood thinners. Combining it with aspirin can increase stomach problems. It may also affect how your body handles methotrexate and birth control pills, possibly causing more side effects. If you're taking any of these medications, talk to your doctor before starting etoricoxib. They need to monitor you carefully.

Can I take Etoricoxib with vitamins or supplements?

While no specific interactions with vitamins or supplements are noted, consult your doctor if you are taking anticoagulants or other medications processed through the liver

Can Etoricoxib be taken safely while pregnant?

Etoricoxib is a medicine that shouldn't be taken during pregnancy, especially in the last three months. If it's absolutely necessary to use it during the first six months, the doctor will prescribe the smallest amount for the shortest time possible. Close monitoring of the baby's health is needed after a few days of taking the medicine, starting around the 20th week of pregnancy. The medicine needs to be stopped immediately if there are problems with the baby's lungs or kidneys. It's also best to avoid this medicine if you're trying to get pregnant or breastfeeding.

Can Etoricoxib be taken safely while breastfeeding?

It is not known if etoricoxib is excreted in human milk. Therefore, breastfeeding while using this medicine is not recommended 

Is Etoricoxib safe for the elderly?

Older adults can take this medicine at the usual dose, but they might have more stomach problems than younger people. If they're also taking blood pressure medicine (like ACE inhibitors or Angiotensin II antagonists), their kidney function needs to be checked regularly.

Is it safe to exercise while taking Etoricoxib?

Exercise is generally safe while taking etoricoxib. However, avoid strenuous activity if you experience dizziness, fatigue, or joint discomfort. Consult your doctor if symptoms interfere with your routine

Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Etoricoxib?

Drinking alcohol with etoricoxib is not advised, as it can increase the risk of gastrointestinal side effects like ulcers or bleeding. Limit or avoid alcohol consumption and speak with your doctor if needed