Etodolac
Introduction To Etodolac
Etodolac is a pain-relieving medicine. It effectively alleviates pain and inflammation in conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and acute pain.
Etodolac should be taken in the dose and duration as advised by your doctor.
It should be taken with food or milk to prevent stomach upset. Inform your
doctor if you have any history of heart disease or stroke.
Vomiting, stomach pain, nausea, and indigestion are some of the common side
effects that might be observed on taking this medicine. It may also cause
dizziness, drowsiness, or visual disturbances. Your doctor may regularly
monitor your kidney function, liver function, and levels of blood components
if you are taking this medicine for long-term treatment. Long-term use may
lead to serious complications such as stomach bleeding and kidney problems.
Uses of Etodolac
- Pain relief
Benefits of Etodolac
Pain relief
Etodolac belongs to a group of medicines called nonsteroidal anti-
inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). It is used for short-term relief of pain,
inflammation, and swelling in conditions that affect joints and muscles. It
works by blocking chemical messengers in the brain that tell us we have pain.
It can help relieve pain in conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and
osteoarthritis.
Take it as it is prescribed to get the most benefit. Do not take more or for longer than needed as that can be dangerous. In general, you should take the lowest dose that works, for the shortest possible time. This will help you to go about your daily activities more easily and have a better, more active, quality of life.
Side effects of Etodolac
Most side effects do not require any medical attention and disappear as your body adjusts to the medicine. Consult your doctor if they persist or if you’re worried about them
Common side effects of Etova LP
- Vomiting
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Diarrhea
- Heartburn
- Abdominal pain
- Flatulence
- Dyspepsia
How to use Etodolac
This medicine is for external use only. Use it in the dose and duration as advised by your doctor. Check the label for directions before use. Clean and dry the affected area and apply the gel. Wash your hands after applying, unless hands are the affected area.
How Etodolac works
Etodolac is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID). It works by blocking the release of certain chemical messengers that cause pain and inflammation (redness and swelling).
Quick tips
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You have been prescribed Etodolac to relieve pain and inflammation.
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Take it with food or milk to prevent upset stomach.
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Take it as per the dose and duration prescribed by your doctor. Long term use may lead to serious complications such as stomach bleeding and kidney problems.
-
It may cause dizziness, drowsiness or visual disturbances. Use caution while driving or doing anything that requires concentration.
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Avoid consuming alcohol while taking Etodolac as it can cause excessive drowsiness and increase your risk of stomach problems.
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Inform your doctor if you have a history of heart disease or stroke.
-
Your doctor may regularly monitor your kidney function, liver function and levels of blood components, if you are taking this medicine for long-term treatment.
Safety Advice
PregnancyCONSULT YOUR DOCTOR
Can I take Etodolac if I’m pregnant?
Etodolac may be unsafe to use during pregnancy. Although there are limited studies in humans, animal studies have shown harmful effects on the developing baby. Your doctor will weigh the benefits and any potential risks before prescribing it to you. Please consult your doctor.
BreastfeedingCONSULT YOUR DOCTOR
Can I take Etodolac if I’m breastfeeding?
Etodolac is probably unsafe to use during breastfeeding. Limited human data suggests that the drug may pass into the breastmilk and harm the baby.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Is Etodolac a narcotic?
No, Etodolac is not a narcotic. It belongs to non-steroidal anti- inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) group of medicines.
Q. Does Etodolac get you high?
No, Etodolac does not get you high. It does not have an abuse potential (drug-seeking behavior) and does not cause physical or psychological dependence. However, if you do not feel well, consult your doctor.
Q. Who should not use Etodolac?
Use of Etodolac should be avoided in patients who are allergic to Etodolac or any of its components. However, if you are not aware of any allergy or if you are using Etodolac for the first time, consult your doctor.
Q. Can Etodolac hurt your kidneys?
Long-term use and high doses of Etodolac may cause renal problems, such as protein or blood in urine and pain during urination. Patients who had or have heart failure, impaired kidney function and hypertension are at risk of kidney problems. The risk of developing kidney problems is also high in patients who are on medicines which cause excess urination (diuretics), or medicines which have significant impact on kidney function. Along with that, Etodolac can affect kidneys of patients who are above 65 years of age or who remain dehydrated. Therefore, kidney function monitoring is recommended for such patients.
Q. Does Etodolac make you drowsy?
Etodolac can cause drowsiness and also dizziness, fatigue (tiredness) and visual disturbances. However, it is not very common and may not affect everyone. If you experience these symptoms avoid driving or operating heavy machinery.
Q. Is Etodolac effective?
Etodolac is effective if used in the dose and duration advised by your doctor. Do not stop taking it even if you see improvement in your condition. If you stop using Etodolac too early, the symptoms may return or worsen.
References
Written By:
Dr Advikka Ridhy
MBBS
RMO, Aster MIMS
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