Etodolac for pain and inflammation

About etodolac

What is etodolac used for?

Etodolac is a type of anti-inflammatory painkiller called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

It is used to ease pain and reduce inflammation in people with rheumatic conditions such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

How does etodolac work?

Etodolac works by blocking COX enzymes in the body. These enzymes help produce prostaglandins, chemicals that cause pain and inflammation.

When e blocks COX enzymes, fewer prostaglandins are made, so pain and inflammation decrease.

Side effects of etodolac

Common side effects of etodolac include:

• Indigestion.

• Heartburn (reflux).

• Stomach pain.

• Feeling sick.

• Being sick (vomiting).

• Diarrhoea.

• Constipation.

• Feeling dizzy or tired.

A full list of the side effects can be found the manufacturer's printed information leaflet supplied with the medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any side effects continue or become troublesome.

How to manage etodolac side effects

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to etodolac, speak with your doctor or pharmacist for further advice.

Who should not take etodolac?

Some medicines aren’t suitable for everyone. Before taking etodolac, your doctor needs to know:

• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to any other NSAID (such as aspirin, naproxen, diclofenac, and indometacin), or to any other medicine.

• If you have ever had a problem with bleeding from the stomach or intestines, such as from a peptic or duodenal ulcer.

• If you have asthma or any other allergic disorder.

• If you have a heart condition, or a problem with your blood vessels or circulation.

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby, or breastfeeding.

• If you have ever had blood clotting problems.

• If you have an inflammatory bowel disorder such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis.

• If you have high blood pressure.

• If you have a connective tissue disorder such as systemic lupus erythematosus. This is an inflammatory condition which is also called lupus or SLE.

• If you have any problems with the way your liver works, or if you have any problems with the way your kidneys work.

• If you are taking any other medicines which are available to buy without a prescription, as well as herbal and complementary medicines.

How to take etodolac

• Read the leaflet that comes with the medicine before you start. It explains how etodolac works and lists possible side effects.

• Etodolac comes in two forms:

  • Tablets that release the medicine slowly. Usually, you take one 600 mg tablet once a day.

  • Capsules that release the medicine faster. You may take one or two 300 mg capsules a day.

• Try to take your doses at the same time(s) each day as this will help you to remember to take etodolac regularly.

• Swallow the tablet or capsule whole; do not chew or break the tablets, and do not open the capsules. Most people find it helps to swallow the tablet/capsule with a drink of water.

• Take your doses with food, such as with a snack or at a mealtime. This is because the food in your stomach will help to protect from side effects such as indigestion and stomach irritation.

• If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it’s almost time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at once.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Your doctor will prescribe the lowest dose for the shortest time to reduce side effects.

• If you need to take etodolac over a long period of time, your doctor may want to prescribe another medicine along with it to protect your stomach from irritation.

• Keep your regular appointments with your doctor. This is so your doctor can check on your progress.

• If you have asthma, symptoms such as wheeze or breathlessness can be made worse by etodolac. If this happens to you, you should stop taking the tablets and see your doctor as soon as possible.

• Long-term use of some anti-inflammatory painkillers can slightly increase the risk of heart or blood vessel problems. Do not take more than prescribed.

• Check with a pharmacist before taking any other medicines. Do not take etodolac with other anti-inflammatory painkillers, including some over-the-counter cold and flu remedies.

• If you are due to have an operation or dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.

How to store etodolac

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.

• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take for etodolac to work?

Etodolac usually starts to reduce pain and inflammation within 1-2 hours of taking it. If you are using it regularly for conditions such as arthritis, it may take a few days to feel the full benefit.

Can you drink alcohol with etodolac?

It’s best to avoid or limit alcohol while taking etodolac. Drinking alcohol can increase the risk of stomach irritation, indigestion, or bleeding, especially if you take etodolac regularly or at higher doses.

Is it safe to take etodolac during pregnancy?

Etodolac is not recommended during pregnancy, especially in the third trimester, as it may harm the unborn baby. Always let your doctor know if you are pregnant or are planning on becoming pregnant.

How is etodolac different to ibuprofen?

Etodolac and ibuprofen are both anti-inflammatory painkillers, but etodolac is commonly used for long-term conditions such as arthritis, whereas ibuprofen is often used for short-term pain.