Drug Name: Etodolac
Brand Names: Lodine, Lodine XL
Generic Name: Etodolac
Uses: Etodolac is a type of NSAID or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication used to treat pain, tenderness, inflammation and stiffness caused by osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis or other causes. These include injuries, menstrual cramps and other musculoskeletal conditions. Etodolac works by stopping the substance responsible for these symptoms.
How to use: Etodolac comes in tablets and capsules. It is taken 2 to 3 times a day (tablet) or once a day (extended-release tablet) for the treatment of arthritis. Your doctor may start you with a lower dose and gradually increase it. Other causes of pain would need a dose every 6 to 8 hours. The tablets should be swallowed whole and should not be cut, chewed or crushed.
Side Effects: Most common side effects of etodolac are gastrointestinal. These include stomach pain, diarrhea, gas or bloating, upset stomach and constipation. Other mild symptoms are weakness, dizziness, depression, chills, nervousness and vomiting. Some side effects can also be serious and these often need immediate medical treatment. These are having black and tarry stools, having red blood in stools, bloody vomit, blurred vision, swelling of the hands, feet, ankles or lower legs, unexplained weight gain, skin rash, hives, difficulty breathing or swallowing, yellowing of the skin or eyes, pale skin and ringing in the ears.
Precautions: Before starting the medication, you should inform your doctor if you have or had a history of ulcer, asthma, endema, high blood pressure, heart failure, and kidney or liver disease. These may have certain effects to the treatment. You should also consult your doctor first if you are pregnant or are planning to get pregnant before you start taking etodolac. In taking laboratory tests and surgery while under etodolac treatment, you should also inform the doctor or laboratory personnel about that you are taking etodolac.
Drug Interaction: Anticoagulants, digoxin, lithium, methotrexate, other NSAIDs, vitamins, nutritional supplements and herbal products may interact with etodolac. Be sure to inform your doctor if you are taking any of these before starting your medication on etodolac.
Overdose: Symptoms of etodolac overdose are lack of energy, drowsiness, upset stomach, vomiting and coma. Contact your local emergency unit if you suspect an overdose.
Notes: Smoking and alcohol use may have an affect the effectiveness of etodolac. Individuals taking entodolac also are more at risk of developing ulcer when they are involved in excessive alcohol use.
Missed Dose: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, just skip your missed dose if it is nearly time for the next one. Never double up your doses.
Important Note: Don’t let anybody else take your medication and consult your doctor about the refilling. Laboratory tests may also be conducted during the treatment to test your response to the medicine. Do not miss any doctor’s appointment and laboratory schedules.
Storage: Store etodolac at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
External links about Etodolac:
Questions about Etodolac Drug effects and interactions
MedicineNet Etodolac Health related articles
