Etodolac is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) specifically formulated to manage pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Its unique pharmacologic profile offers effective symptomatic relief while demonstrating a potentially lower incidence of certain gastrointestinal adverse effects compared to some older NSAIDs. As a prescription medication, etodolac should be used under appropriate medical supervision to ensure optimal therapeutic outcomes and monitoring.

Features

• Active ingredient: Etodolac
• Available in tablet and extended-release tablet formulations
• Selective COX-2 inhibitor with relative COX-1 sparing properties
• Multiple strength options (400mg, 500mg, 600mg immediate-release; 400mg, 500mg, 600mg extended-release)
• Bioavailability of approximately 80% following oral administration
• Peak plasma concentrations reached within 1-2 hours (immediate-release) or 5-7 hours (extended-release)
• Plasma half-life of approximately 7 hours
• Highly protein-bound (greater than 99%)
• Hepatic metabolism via cytochrome P450 system (primarily CYP3A4 and CYP2C9)
• Renal excretion of metabolites

Benefits

• Provides effective relief from inflammatory pain and stiffness associated with arthritis
• Reduces joint swelling and improves mobility through potent anti-inflammatory action
• Demonstrates preferential COX-2 inhibition, potentially offering improved gastrointestinal tolerability
• Extended-release formulation provides sustained 24-hour pain control with once-daily dosing
• Established efficacy in managing chronic musculoskeletal pain conditions
• Well-documented safety profile with extensive clinical experience

Common use

Etodolac is primarily indicated for the management of signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. It is prescribed to reduce pain, tenderness, swelling, and stiffness in affected joints, thereby improving physical function and quality of life. Healthcare providers may also consider etodolac off-label for other painful inflammatory conditions when appropriate, though such use requires careful risk-benefit assessment. The medication is typically employed as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that may include physical therapy, weight management, and other non-pharmacological interventions.

Dosage and direction

For osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, the recommended initial dosage for immediate-release etodolac tablets is 300 mg twice daily, 400 mg twice daily, or 500 mg twice daily. The total daily dose should not exceed 1,000 mg for patients weighing 60 kg or less, or 1,200 mg for those weighing more than 60 kg. For extended-release tablets, the recommended dosage is 400 mg to 1,000 mg administered once daily. Dosage should be individualized based on the patient’s condition, response to therapy, and risk factors for adverse events. Administration with food or milk may minimize potential gastrointestinal discomfort. Tablets should be swallowed whole and not crushed, chewed, or divided.

Precautions

Patients should be monitored for signs of gastrointestinal ulceration and bleeding, particularly those with a history of peptic ulcer disease or gastrointestinal bleeding. Use with caution in patients with fluid retention, hypertension, or heart failure due to potential for NSAID-induced sodium and fluid retention. Renal function should be assessed periodically, especially in elderly patients or those with pre-existing renal impairment, dehydration, or concomitant use of nephrotoxic agents. Hepatic function monitoring is recommended during prolonged therapy. Patients should be advised to report any signs of skin reactions, as serious cutaneous adverse reactions have been reported with NSAID use. Caution is advised when driving or operating machinery until the patient’s response to therapy is known.

Contraindications

Etodolac is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to etodolac or any components of the formulation. It should not be used in patients who have experienced asthma, urticaria, or allergic-type reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs. Contraindicated in the setting of coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery. Should not be administered to patients with active peptic ulcer disease or recent gastrointestinal bleeding. Avoid use in patients with severe heart failure, advanced renal disease, or severe hepatic impairment. Not recommended during the third trimester of pregnancy due to potential for premature closure of the ductus arteriosus.

Possible side effect

Common adverse reactions (occurring in >1% of patients) include dyspepsia, abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea, flatulence, headache, dizziness, and peripheral edema. Less frequent but potentially serious side effects include gastrointestinal ulceration and bleeding, hypertension, congestive heart failure, renal impairment, hepatotoxicity, and severe skin reactions. Hematologic effects such as anemia and prolonged bleeding time may occur. Some patients may experience tinnitus, visual disturbances, or depression. Allergic reactions ranging from rash to anaphylaxis have been reported. Long-term use may be associated with increased risk of cardiovascular thrombotic events.

Drug interaction

Etodolac may increase the effects of warfarin and other anticoagulants, potentially increasing bleeding risk. Concurrent use with other NSAIDs or aspirin may increase the risk of gastrointestinal adverse effects without therapeutic benefit. May reduce the antihypertensive effect of ACE inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor blockers, and diuretics. Can decrease the natriuretic effect of furosemide and thiazides. May increase lithium levels and risk of lithium toxicity. Concomitant use with corticosteroids may increase risk of gastrointestinal ulceration. Cyclosporine levels may be increased with potential nephrotoxicity. Methotrexate toxicity may be enhanced. Phenytoin levels may be increased. SSRIs may increase risk of bleeding when combined with etodolac.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered unless it is almost time for the next scheduled dose. In that case, the missed dose should be skipped and the regular dosing schedule resumed. Patients should not double the dose to make up for a missed one. For extended-release formulations, if remembered within 12 hours of the scheduled time, the dose may be taken. If more than 12 hours have passed, the missed dose should be skipped. Maintaining a consistent dosing schedule is important for optimal pain control.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose may include lethargy, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, epigastric pain, gastrointestinal bleeding, hypertension, acute renal failure, respiratory depression, and coma. Management is supportive and symptomatic. There is no specific antidote. Gastric lavage may be considered if performed soon after ingestion. Activated charcoal may be administered. Forced diuresis, alkalinization of urine, hemodialysis, or hemoperfusion are unlikely to be beneficial due to etodolac’s high protein binding. Supportive measures should include maintenance of adequate renal function and monitoring for gastrointestinal bleeding. Symptomatic treatment of hypotension and electrolyte imbalance may be necessary.

Storage

Store at controlled room temperature between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), with excursions permitted between 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Keep in the original container, tightly closed, and protect from moisture and light. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use after the expiration date printed on the packaging. Properly discard any unused medication that is no longer needed or has expired. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so.

Disclaimer

This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Etodolac is a prescription medication that should be used only under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. Individual response to therapy may vary. Patients should consult their healthcare provider for personalized medical advice, including information about potential risks and benefits. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read in this product information. Report any adverse reactions to your healthcare provider and the appropriate regulatory authority.

Reviews

Clinical studies have demonstrated etodolac’s efficacy in managing arthritis symptoms, with many patients reporting significant improvement in pain scores and functional status. In comparative trials, etodolac has shown similar efficacy to other NSAIDs with some studies suggesting better gastrointestinal tolerability. Patient reviews often highlight improved mobility and reduced morning stiffness. Some users report preference for the extended-release formulation due to convenience of once-daily dosing. However, individual experiences vary, and some patients may not achieve adequate symptom control or may experience side effects requiring discontinuation. Long-term observational data support its position as a valuable option in the NSAID class when used appropriately in selected patients.