Arcoxia

etoricoxib

Brand(s):

• Intacoxia Etrobax

Manufacturer:

• Intas Pharmaceuticals Ltd. / Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd.

Disease(s):

• Osteoarthritis / Rheumatoid Arthritis / Ankylosing Spondylitis / Gout

Etoricoxib Tablets

What is Etoricoxib?

Etoricoxib is a COX-2 selective inhibitor prescribed for managing various types of pain and inflammatory conditions. Specifically, it's used to treat chronic and acute pain, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and chronic low back pain. It works by reducing inflammation and pain signals in the body.

Important Information for Your Doctor

Before starting etoricoxib, it's crucial to inform your healthcare professional about your medical history. This includes disclosing if you have, or have ever had, any of the following:

• Heart failure or a history of heart attack
• Undergone bypass surgery
• Experienced chest pain (angina)
• Peripheral arterial disease (narrowed or blocked arteries in the limbs)
• Suffered a stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA)
• High blood pressure
• Kidney disease
• Liver disease
• Experienced any allergic reaction to etoricoxib, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• Are pregnant, trying to conceive, or breastfeeding

How to Take Etoricoxib

Always follow your doctor's instructions precisely when taking etoricoxib. Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water; do not crush, chew, or break it. Aim to take your dose at roughly the same time each day for consistent effectiveness and better adherence to the medication schedule. You can take it with or without food. Never exceed the prescribed dosage or duration of treatment.

Overdosage: In case of suspected overdose, contact a poison control center or emergency room immediately.

Important Note: This medication is solely for your use. Do not share it with others.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Never double up on doses.

Potential Drug Interactions

Etoricoxib can interact with several other medications. Inform your doctor or pharmacist about all medications you are taking, including:

• Warfarin
• Rifampicin
• Water pills (diuretics)
• ACE inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers (medications for high blood pressure or heart failure)
• Lithium
• Birth control pills
• Hormone replacement therapy
• Methotrexate

Also mention any regular consumption of caffeine, alcohol, tobacco, or illicit drugs, as these substances can influence the efficacy of etoricoxib. Always consult your healthcare professional before starting or stopping any medication.

Monitoring While on Etoricoxib

Regular check-ups with your doctor are essential to monitor your progress and ensure the medication is working effectively. Using the lowest effective dose is crucial, and long-term use should be avoided whenever possible. Prolonged treatment, especially at higher doses, may increase the risk of heart attack and stroke.

The duration of etoricoxib treatment depends on your individual condition; it may range from a few days to an extended period. Immediately inform your doctor if you become pregnant while taking etoricoxib or if you develop an infection, as etoricoxib may mask fever symptoms.

Always inform your doctor and pharmacist about your etoricoxib use before starting any new medications.

Possible Side Effects

Side effects requiring immediate medical attention:

• Facial, lip, tongue, or throat swelling (potentially causing difficulty swallowing or breathing)
• Abnormal heart rhythm (atrial fibrillation)
• Heart failure
• Palpitations
• Serious kidney problems
• Serious liver problems
• Severe stomach pain
• Stomach ulcers (which can be serious and may bleed, and may occur unexpectedly)
• Nausea and vomiting
• Heartburn, indigestion, or stomach discomfort
• Diarrhea
• Swelling of legs, ankles, or feet
• High blood pressure
• Dizziness
• Headache

Side effects that usually don't require immediate medical attention (but report to your doctor if persistent or bothersome):

• Allergic reactions (rash, itching, hives)
• Severe skin reactions (can occur without warning)
• Altered taste
• Wheezing
• Insomnia
• Anxiety
• Drowsiness
• Mouth ulcers
• Diarrhea
• Severe increase in blood pressure
• Confusion
• Hallucinations
• Decreased platelets

This is not an exhaustive list of all possible side effects.

Storage of Etoricoxib

Keep etoricoxib out of reach of children, preferably in a child-resistant container. Store in a cool, dry place below 30°C (86°F). Avoid storing in bathrooms, near sinks, in cars, or on window sills. Heat and moisture can degrade the medication.