Etodolac

Dosage Forms Available

• Etodolac can be taken orally (immediate-release tablet, extended-release tablet and capsules).

Age and Dose Restrictions

• This medicine is intended for use by adults aged 18 and above.

Contraindications

• Etodolac is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to it. It is also contraindicated for perioperative pain in coronary artery bypass graft surgery. Patients with active gastrointestinal bleeding or peptic ulcer disease should not use this medicine. Additionally, it is contraindicated in patients with advanced renal disease.

Other Medications to Avoid

• Etodolac may interact with anticoagulants (such as warfarin), antiplatelets (such as clopidogrel), angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors (such as lisinopril), angiotensin receptor blockers (such as losartan), and diuretics (such as furosemide and hydrochlorothiazide).

Overdose and Missed Dose

• Overdosing on Etodolac could lead to symptoms like lethargy, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, and epigastric pain. If you observe this symptom, inform your doctor and follow the advice accordingly.

• If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as you remember. But avoid doubling up on the dose to make up for the missed one.

Management of Side Effects

Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor.

• Drinking plenty of water can help manage side effects like constipation.

• For side effects like dizziness or headache, try lying down and resting in a quiet, dimly lit room.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• Etodolac may cause dizziness, affecting the ability to drive or operate heavy machinery.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• Etodolac should be avoided in late pregnancy as it may cause premature closure of the ductus arteriosus. As it enters breast milk, it is advisable to avoid this medicine while nursing. Always consult your doctor before using this medicine during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Patients with renal or hepatic impairment should exercise caution when taking Etodolac.

• Careful dose adjustment and regular monitoring of kidney and liver function may be needed in these patients.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• Maintaining a healthy body can help reduce the amount of stress on your joints, which is beneficial when managing conditions like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, for which Etodolac is commonly prescribed.