Etoricoxib 60mg Tablets

What are Etoricoxib tablets?

Etoricoxib belongs to a class of medications called 'Coxibs'. They selectively inhibit the COX-2 enzyme, reducing the production of inflammatory chemicals that are linked to increasing pain sensation. They are very similar to other anti-inflammatories, such as ibuprofen or naproxen in their mode of action though are more selective.

What is Etoricoxib best used for?

Etoricoxib is indicated for the treatment of pain that is associated with inflammation such as musculoskeletal pain, dental pain and gout.

They can also be used for chronic pain conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, osteoarthritis and ankylosing spondylitis.

What’s the difference between Etoricoxib and other medications like Naproxen and Ibuprofen

Both of these treatments offer pain relief and anti-inflammatory effects. Most anti-inflammatories are non-selective and target both COX-1 and COX-2 whereas Etoricoxib is selective for COX-2. It would appear that blocking COX-1 is related the the majority of the side effects of most anti-inflammatories so Etoricoxib is able to provide the same reduction in pain and inflammation without most of the usual side effects.

The choice between other anti-inflammatories and Etoricoxib is highly individual. Your healthcare provider will consider your unique medical history, any existing conditions, and the nature of your pain or inflammation when recommending the most suitable option.

Is Etoricoxib free of all side effects associated with anti-inflammatories?

Like all medications, you should use the lowest dose for the shortest time possible. Taking coxibs and NSAIDs long-term can have implications for renal and cardiovascular health. It is important that if you need these treatments long-term you have an annual review. Discuss this with your healthcare provider.

Etoricoxib ingredients

Each film-coated tablet contains 60 mg of etoricoxib.

The inactive ingredients are as follows:

Core: Microcrystalline cellulose, Calcium hydrogen phosphate anhydrous, Croscarmellose sodium, Lactose monohydrate, Hydroxypropyl cellulose, Magnesium stearate

Tablet coating: Hypromellose, Lactose monohydrate, Titanium dioxide (E171), Triacetin, indigo carmine aluminium lake (E132), Iron oxide yellow (E172).

Source: https://www.medicines.org.uk/e...

Etoricoxib side effects

Like all medicines, there are possible side effects when taking etoricoxib tablets although not everybody gets them. If you do experience any of the following, stop taking the treatment and discuss it with your GP.

The most common side effect is

• Stomach pain

If you develop any of these signs you should stop Etoricoxib Tablets and talk to your doctor immediately

• Shortness of breath, chest pains, or ankle swelling appear or if they get worse
• Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice) – these are signs of liver problems
• Severe or continual stomach pain or your stools become black
• An allergic reaction- which can include skin problems such as ulcers or blistering, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat which may cause difficulty in breathing

For a full list of the potential side effects please read the patient information leaflet

Etoricoxib warnings

Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking Etoricoxib Tablets if:

• You have a history of stomach bleeding or ulcers
• You are dehydrated, for example by a prolonged bout of vomiting or diarrhoea
• You have swelling due to fluid retention.
• You have a history of heart failure or any other form of heart disease
• You have a history of high blood pressure.
• Etoricoxib Tablets can increase blood pressure in some people, especially in high doses, and your doctor will want to check your blood pressure from time to time.
• You have any history of liver or kidney disease
• You are being treated for an infection. Etoricoxib Tablets can mask or hide a fever, which is a sign of infection
• You have diabetes, high cholesterol, or are a smoker. These can increase your risk of heart disease
• You are a woman trying to become pregnant
• You are over 65 years of age

How to take Etoricoxib tablets

Always follow the instructions given to you by your doctor or as listed on the prescription. Depending on the type of condition or pain you’re trying to treat, the dosage may vary.

The recommended dose for acute pain is:

• ONE 60mg tablet taken once daily

Chronic conditions include: Rheumatoid arthritis, Ankylosing spondylitis and Gout.