Etoricoxib

Please note: these are basic guidelines, refer to your doctor for a professional medical opinion.

Popular brand names:

Arcoxia

Drug type:

Anti-inflammatory drug

Prescription needed?

Yes

What does it do?

Etoricoxib is an anti-inflammatory drug useful in the treatment of:

• Arthritic conditions - gout, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, ankylosing spondylitis
• Primary dysmenorrhoea (menstrual cramps)
• Acute pain - including moderate to severe postoperative pain

How does it work?

• Etoricoxib is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, specifically a selective COX-2 inhibitor
• It helps to reduce pain and inflammation (swelling) in muscles and joints

How should it be used?

• Etoricoxib can be taken with or without food, but its effect may be faster if taken on an empty stomach
• Do not take etoricoxib if you are dehydrated, exercising, or if you are allergic to other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (including aspirin)
• Use the lowest effective doses for the shortest duration possible

What is the typical dosage?

Your doctor will recommend a dosage tailored to your need, but typically:

• Rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis: 90mg taken once daily
• Osteoarthritis: 60mg taken once daily
• Gout and primary dysmenorrhoea: 120mg taken once daily for a maximum of 8 days
• Acute pain: 90-120mg taken once daily for a maximum of 8 days

How quickly will it start to work?

Within 1 hour.  
                                

How long will the effects last?

24 hours. 
                

When should I stop using it?

The drug should be stopped as soon as no longer needed.
        

Is it safe for prolonged use?

Long-term use is associated with a higher risk of heart attack, stroke, hypertension, liver/kidney abnormalities, and stomach ulceration.

You will need regular blood pressure checks, and blood tests to monitor your blood cell count, and kidney/liver function.

What are the possible side effects?

The following have been reported:

• More common: abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhoea, swelling of the legs/feet, dizziness, headache, palpitations, shortness of breath, bruising
• Less common: disturbance in taste/sight, vertigo, muscle cramps, insomnia
• Report to your doctor before taking your next dose if you experience: swelling of the face/ lips/tongue, rash, chest pain, severe abdominal pain, confusion, hallucinations, jaundice

What other considerations are important?

Dosage may be adjusted by your doctor under certain conditions.

• Certain health problems: liver/kidney/heart problems, peripheral or coronary artery disease, active peptic ulcers or gastro-intestinal bleeding, inflammatory bowel disease, current/planned pregnancy, allergy to NSAIDS
• Other medicines: high dose aspirin, cyclosporin, tacrolimus, warfarin, rifampicin, methotrexate, antihypertensives, oral contraceptives, hormone replacement therapy, ketoconazole, lithium
• Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Not safe, do not use
• Children: Not recommended in patients <16 years
• Over 60: No special problems
• Driving and hazardous work: Caution, the drug can cause dizziness or sleepiness
• Alcohol: Avoid, increased risk of stomach ulcers