About Etoricoxib 90 mg Tablet
Etoricoxib 90 mg Tablet contains Etoricoxib 90 mg. This is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to relieve pain and swelling in arthritis and some other painful conditions. It belongs to a group called COX-2 inhibitors, which are a little gentler on the stomach than older NSAIDs, but it can raise blood pressure and is not suitable for people with certain heart problems.
Uses of Etoricoxib 90 mg Tablet
- Osteoarthritis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Ankylosing spondylitis
- Acute gout attacks
- Short-term pain, such as after dental surgery
Benefits
In arthritis
It helps reduce joint pain, swelling and stiffness, which can make it easier to move. It eases symptoms but does not change the underlying disease.
In acute gout and short-term pain
It helps calm the pain and swelling of a gout attack or after a dental procedure when used for the short time your doctor advises.
Side effects
Most side effects are mild and settle as your body gets used to the medicine. Talk to your doctor if any of them bother you or do not go away.
Common
- Indigestion or stomach pain
- Swelling of the legs or ankles (fluid retention)
- Raised blood pressure
- Dizziness
- Headache
Get medical help if you notice
- Chest pain, breathlessness, sudden weakness on one side or trouble speaking — seek emergency care
- Signs of bleeding in the stomach or gut: black or tarry stools, vomiting blood or material that looks like coffee grounds, or severe stomach pain — stop and get medical help straight away
- Reduced urine or marked swelling — may be a sign of kidney problems; contact your doctor
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes — contact a doctor straight away
- Allergic reaction: rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips or throat, or difficulty breathing — seek emergency care
How to use
Take it exactly as your doctor prescribed, usually once a day. Swallow the tablet with water; it can be taken with or without food. Use the lowest dose for the shortest time your doctor advises.
How it works
It blocks an enzyme called COX-2, which the body uses to make chemicals (prostaglandins) that cause pain and swelling.
Safety advice
Alcohol Caution
Avoid alcohol or keep it to a minimum. It can add to the risk of stomach irritation and bleeding.
Pregnancy Unsafe
It must not be used in pregnancy. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy.
Breastfeeding Unsafe
It should not be used while breastfeeding. Ask your doctor about other options.
Driving Caution
It may cause dizziness or tiredness. Do not drive if you feel affected.
Kidney Caution
Use with caution in kidney disease. It should not be used in severe kidney disease.
Liver Caution
Your doctor may limit the dose in liver disease. It should not be used in severe liver disease.
If you miss a dose
If you miss a dose, take it when you remember. If it is nearly time for the next dose, skip the missed one. Do not take two doses together.
Quick tips
- Get your blood pressure checked regularly while taking it.
- Tell your doctor if you have heart disease, have had a stroke, or have high blood pressure that is not controlled — it may not be suitable.
- Do not take it with other NSAID painkillers.
- Use it only for as long as your doctor advises.
Substitutes
Same salts in the same strength from other makers. Only switch brands on your doctor's or pharmacist's advice; our pharmacist checks every order against the prescription.
Fact box
- Chemical class
- Bipyridine derivative
- Therapeutic class
- Pain relief / anti-inflammatory
- Action class
- Selective COX-2 inhibitor (NSAID)
- Habit forming
- No
- Prescription
- Required
Interactions with other medicines
Tell your doctor and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin and herbal product you take.
| Medicine | What can happen |
|---|---|
| Warfarin and other blood thinners | Higher risk of bleeding; blood tests may be needed |
| Blood pressure medicines (ACE inhibitors, ARBs, diuretics) | Their effect may be reduced and the kidneys may be strained |
| Low-dose aspirin and other NSAIDs | Higher risk of stomach ulcers and bleeding |
| Rifampicin | May reduce the effect of etoricoxib |
| Lithium, methotrexate | Levels of these medicines may rise |
This page is general information to help you understand your medicine. It is not a substitute for advice from your doctor or pharmacist. Do not start, stop or change a medicine on your own.
Written by the Asthra Health Care team from the approved prescribing information (Etoricoxib prescribing information (CDSCO-approved labelling); Etoricoxib Summary of Product Characteristics (EMC)). Pharmacist review pending.