Etodolac
Pain, Arthritis, Rheumatoid ... show more
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
Possible
Pharmaceutical Class
Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug
Controlled Drug Substance
NO
Etodolac
Summary
Etodolac is mainly used for relieving symptoms in osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. It is also used for managing juvenile rheumatoid arthritis and for general control of pain and inflammation.
Etodolac works by inhibiting enzymes called cyclooxygenase, particularly COX-2. This reduces the production of prostaglandins, substances that cause inflammation and pain in the body.
Etodolac is taken orally, with or without food. For sudden, sharp pain, up to 1000mg a day can be taken, spread out in doses every 6 to 8 hours. For long-term pain or arthritis, a lower dose may be sufficient. The maximum daily dose should not exceed 1000mg unless instructed by your doctor.
Common side effects of Etodolac include stomach upset, nausea, abdominal pain, and headaches. Less common but serious side effects include heart problems, chest pain, breathing difficulties, ulcers, and liver problems. If you experience any of these, consult your doctor immediately.
Etodolac should not be used late in pregnancy as it can harm the baby. It can interact with blood thinners, ACE inhibitors, diuretics, and lithium. Avoid combining it with supplements that increase bleeding risk. It can cause dizziness or drowsiness, so avoid driving or operating heavy machinery while taking it. If you experience severe side effects, stop taking it and consult your doctor immediately.
Indications and Purpose
How does Etodolac work?
Etodolac inhibits cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, particularly COX-2, reducing prostaglandin production, which leads to decreased inflammation and pain.
Is Etodolac effective?
Yes, clinical studies show Etodolac effectively reduces pain and inflammation, with significant improvement in arthritis symptoms compared to a placebo.
What is Etodolac?
Etodolac is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to reduce inflammation, pain, and fever. It is commonly prescribed for conditions like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. Etodolac works by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis, which decreases pain and inflammation in the body.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take Etodolac?
Typically prescribed for as long as symptoms persist. Long-term use should be regularly monitored due to potential side effects.
How do I take Etodolac?
Take Etodolac orally, with or without food. For those with gastrointestinal sensitivity, taking it with food or milk can help. Avoid alcohol while using this medicine, as it may exacerbate side effects.
How long does it take for Etodolac to start working?
Etodolac is a medicine for long-term health problems. It might take a week to feel better, but usually, you'll see the best results after two weeks. Once you feel better, your doctor will check your dose to make sure it's still right for you.
How should I store Etodolac?
Store at room temperature (20–25°C) in a tightly sealed container, away from moisture and heat.
What is the usual dose of Etodolac?
Etodolac is a pain reliever. For sudden, sharp pain, you can take up to 1000mg a day, spread out in doses every 6 to 8 hours. For long-term pain, a lower amount is usually enough. For arthritis, your doctor might start you on a different dose and schedule. Don't take more than 1000mg daily unless your doctor says it's okay. It's not been tested on children under 6.
Warnings and Precautions
Can Etodolac be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Etodolac is a medicine. It might pass into breast milk and could harm a baby. Doctors need to decide if the mom should stop breastfeeding or stop taking the medicine, depending on how important the medicine is for her health. While small amounts of similar medicines have been found in breast milk, we don't know for sure how much etodolac passes through.
Can Etodolac be taken safely while pregnant?
Taking certain pain relievers (NSAIDs) late in pregnancy can harm the baby. After 20 weeks, these medicines might cause kidney problems for the baby, leading to low amniotic fluid and even kidney damage after birth. It's especially risky after 30 weeks, possibly causing a heart problem in the baby. Doctors try to avoid using them in late pregnancy. If they must be used, it's only for a short time and at the lowest dose possible, with close monitoring. Keep in mind that there's a small chance of problems during pregnancy even without these medicines.
Can I take Etodolac with other prescription drugs?
Etodolac may interact with:
- Blood thinners (e.g., warfarin) — increased bleeding risk.
- ACE inhibitors or diuretics — reduced effectiveness.
- Lithium — increased toxicity.
Is Etodolac safe for the elderly?
Older adults (65 and up) can have more problems with stomach and kidney issues when taking NSAIDs (like ibuprofen or naproxen). Even though the dose doesn't usually need changing, their bodies might not handle the side effects as well as younger people. So, be careful.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Etodolac?
Avoid alcohol while taking Etodolac as it increases the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding and worsens side effects like dizziness or drowsiness.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Etodolac?
Exercise is generally safe while using Etodolac, but avoid high-impact activities if experiencing dizziness or joint pain. Consult your doctor about specific routines suitable for your condition.
Who should avoid taking Etodolac?
Etodolac can have serious side effects. These include heart problems (chest pain, trouble breathing, weakness, slurred speech), stomach problems (ulcers, bleeding), and liver problems (nausea, tiredness, yellowing of skin or eyes). If you get a rash, fever, trouble breathing, or swelling in your face or throat, stop taking them and go to the doctor right away. Pregnant women shouldn't take them after seven months, and should talk to their doctor if they need to use them between five and seven months.
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