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Etodolac: Brands, Price & Uses in Bangladesh

Etodolac is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is FDA-approved for the following indications: Osteoarthritis (OA): Relief of the signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis and more.

Forms:TabletCapsule

About Etodolac

Indications of Etodolac

Etodolac is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is FDA-approved for the following indications:

  • Osteoarthritis (OA): Relief of the signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis, for both acute flares and long-term management.
  • Rheumatoid arthritis (RA): Relief of the signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.
  • Acute pain management: Management of mild to moderate acute pain in adults (e.g., post-surgical or musculoskeletal pain).

These are established, FDA-approved uses. Etodolac is not indicated for use in children for these conditions, and pediatric osteoarthritis/rheumatoid arthritis use in patients under 18 has not been demonstrated as safe and effective for this drug.

Dosage & Administration of Etodolac

IndicationAdult Dosage
Osteoarthritis / Rheumatoid arthritis (immediate-release)300 mg two or three times daily, or 400-500 mg twice daily; total daily dose generally not to exceed 1000 mg
Osteoarthritis / Rheumatoid arthritis (extended-release)400-1000 mg once daily, individualized to patient response
Acute pain200-400 mg every 6-8 hours as needed; total daily dose not to exceed 1000 mg (immediate-release only; extended-release is not indicated for acute pain)

Etodolac should be taken with food, milk, or an antacid if gastrointestinal upset occurs, although this does not eliminate the risk of GI ulceration. The lowest effective dose should be used for the shortest duration consistent with individual treatment goals, in line with NSAID class safety recommendations. Extended-release tablets must be swallowed whole and must not be crushed, split, or chewed.

For dosing adjustment in hepatic or renal impairment, see Use in Special Populations.

Side Effects of Etodolac

Common side effects of Etodolac include:

  • Gastrointestinal: dyspepsia, abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea, constipation, flatulence
  • Central nervous system: headache, dizziness, drowsiness
  • Other: fluid retention/edema, rash, pruritus, tinnitus

Serious but less common adverse effects include gastrointestinal ulceration/bleeding/perforation, cardiovascular thrombotic events (myocardial infarction, stroke), hepatotoxicity, renal impairment, hypertension, heart failure exacerbation, severe skin reactions (Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis), and anaphylactoid reactions. Patients should seek prompt medical attention for signs of GI bleeding (black stools, vomiting blood), chest pain, shortness of breath, sudden weakness, or slurred speech while taking Etodolac.

Contraindications of Etodolac

Etodolac is contraindicated in the following situations:

  • Known hypersensitivity to Etodolac or any component of the formulation.
  • History of asthma, urticaria, or other allergic-type reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs (due to risk of severe, potentially fatal anaphylactoid reactions).
  • Use in the setting of coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery (perioperative use has been shown to increase the risk of myocardial infarction and stroke).
  • Use in the third trimester of pregnancy (risk of premature closure of the fetal ductus arteriosus).

Frequently Asked Questions about Etodolac

What is Etodolac used for?

Etodolac is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to relieve pain, swelling, and stiffness caused by osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, and to manage mild to moderate acute pain.

Can I take Etodolac with other painkillers like aspirin or ibuprofen?

No. Combining Etodolac with aspirin or other NSAIDs increases the risk of stomach ulcers and bleeding without added pain relief benefit. Always tell your doctor about all medicines you take before starting Etodolac.

Is Etodolac safe during pregnancy?

Etodolac should be avoided from 20 weeks of pregnancy onward due to risks to the baby's kidneys, and it is contraindicated in the third trimester because it can cause premature closure of a blood vessel in the fetal heart. In early pregnancy, use Etodolac only if your physician determines the benefit outweighs the risk.

What are the serious risks of taking Etodolac?

Like other NSAIDs, Etodolac carries a risk of serious cardiovascular events (heart attack, stroke) and serious gastrointestinal events (bleeding, ulcers, perforation), which can occur without warning. Seek immediate medical help for chest pain, shortness of breath, black or bloody stools, or vomiting blood while taking Etodolac.

Who should not take Etodolac?

People with a known allergy to Etodolac, aspirin, or other NSAIDs (including those with a history of asthma or hives after taking NSAIDs), patients undergoing coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery, and women in the third trimester of pregnancy should not take Etodolac.

Can children take Etodolac?

The safety and effectiveness of Etodolac in children have not been established, so it is not recommended for pediatric use. Consult a physician for appropriate alternatives for children.

Disclaimer

The information provided is accurate to the best of our knowledge, but it does not replace professional medical advice. We cannot guarantee its completeness or accuracy, and the absence of specific information about a drug should not be taken as an endorsement. We are not responsible for any consequences arising from this information, so please consult a healthcare professional for any concerns or questions.

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