Etodolac

Etodolac is a pain relieving medicine. It effectively alleviates pain and inflammation in conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis and acute pain.

Etodolac is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID). It works by blocking the release of certain chemical messengers that cause pain and inflammation (redness and swelling).

• Osteoarthritis: Used for acute and long-term management of signs and symptoms.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis: Used for acute and long-term management of signs and symptoms.
• Acute Pain: Used for management of acute pain.
• Acute Gout: Used for treatment of gout.

Drugs for Osteoarthritis, Drugs used for Rheumatoid Arthritis, Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

NSAID (COX-2 selective)

Etodolac is an NSAID derived from pyrano-indoleacetic acid, inhibits cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2) resulting in decreased prostaglandin precursor formation. Similar to other NSAIDs, the anti-inflammatory effects of etodolac result from inhibition of the enzyme cyclooxygenase (COX). This decreases the synthesis of peripheral prostaglandins involved in mediating inflammation.

Etodolac inhibits cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2), reducing prostaglandin synthesis and thereby relieving pain and inflammation.

Adult Dose (Oral):

• Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis: 600-1000 mg/day in divided doses; Max: 1200 mg/day.
• ER tablet: Once daily.
• Acute Gout: As needed.

Child Dose (Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis): >=60 kg: 1000 mg PO once daily (ER).

Hepatic impairment: Dose adjustment not necessary.

Use it as advised by your doctor or check the label for directions before use. Etodolac is to be taken with food.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose.

Common Side Effects:

• Vomiting
• Stomach pain/epigastric pain
• Nausea
• Indigestion
• Loss of appetite
• Diarrhea
• Heartburn
• Flatulence
• Constipation

Others: Dizziness, edema, elevated liver enzymes, increased bleeding time, pruritis, rash, tinnitus.

Precautions:

• Etodolac may decrease alertness, affect vision or make you feel sleepy and dizzy; do not drive if these symptoms occur.
• Prescribed for relief of pain and inflammation.
• Take with food or milk to prevent upset stomach.
• Long term use may lead to stomach bleeding and kidney problems.
• Avoid alcohol (can cause excessive drowsiness and increase risk of stomach problems).
• Inform doctor if you have a history of heart disease or stroke.
• Your doctor may regularly monitor kidney function, liver function and blood components for long-term treatment.

Contraindications:

• Peptic ulcer
• Hypersensitivity to etodolac/NSAIDs
• Children (under 18 years)
• Pregnancy (3rd trimester)
• Lactation

Drug Interactions:

• Warfarin, lithium, methotrexate, digoxin, cyclosporin, aspirin: Increased effect.
• Aspirin: Effect may be reduced.
• Some diuretics and beta-blockers: Reduced effect.
• Alcohol: Enhances gastric mucosal irritation.
• ACE-inhibitors: Antihypertensive effect may be diminished.

Food Interactions: It is unsafe to consume alcohol with Etodolac.

Use in Pregnancy: Etodolac may be unsafe; animal studies have shown harmful effects on the developing baby.

Use in Lactation: Etodolac is probably unsafe; limited data suggests drug may pass into breastmilk and harm the baby.

Pediatric Use: Safety and effectiveness in children under 18 years have not been established.

Geriatric Use: No specific dosage adjustment is necessary for elderly patients.

Renal Impairment: Mild-to-moderate: no adjustment; Severe: not recommended.

Hepatic Impairment: Limited information available; use with caution.

Overdose: Symptoms following acute NSAID overdose: lethargy, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, epigastric pain; generally reversible with supportive care.

Storage: Do not store above 30 degree C. Keep away from light and out of reach of children.

Etodolac