Home > Medicines & Drugs > Etodolac

Print this page

Etodolac


  • Etodolac is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (also known as an NSAID).
  • It is best to take etodolac with a snack or after a meal to help prevent unwanted indigestion.
  • If you are taking the modified-release tablets, these must be swallowed whole with a drink of water and should not be crushed or chewed.
  • If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with etodolac.

About etodolac

Type of medicineNon-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)
Used forRelief of pain and inflammation in adults with arthritis
Also calledEccoxolac®
Etopan® XL
Lodine® SR
Available asCapsules and modified-release tablets

Etodolac is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug. It is also known as an NSAID. It is used to relieve the pain and inflammation caused by rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis.

Etodolac works by blocking a substance in the body called cyclo-oxygenase (also called COX) which is involved in the production of certain irritant chemicals in response to conditions such as arthritis. By blocking the action of COX, etodolac reduces the symptoms of pain and inflammation.

Before taking etodolac

Before taking etodolac make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

  • If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
  • If you are 65 years of age or older.
  • If you have liver or kidney problems.
  • If you have asthma or any other allergic disorder.
  • If you have ever had a stomach or duodenal ulcer.
  • If you have heart problems.
  • If you have ever had blood clotting problems.
  • If you have blood in your stools.
  • If you have systemic lupus erythematosus (an inflammatory condition also called lupus or SLE).
  • If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
  • If you have ever had an allergic or unusual reaction to any other NSAID (this includes aspirin, naproxen, diclofenac and ibuprofen) or to any other medicine.

How to take etodolac

  • Before starting this treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
  • Take etodolac exactly as your doctor has told you.
  • If you have been given the capsules, it is usual to take two each day. Your doctor will tell you whether to take both capsules at the same time of day or to take one in the morning and one in the evening.
  • If you have been given the modified-release tablets of etodolac, take one each day swallowed with a drink of water. Do not chew or crush the tablets.
  • Try to take your doses of etodolac at the same time(s) each day to avoid missing any doses.
  • If you forget to take a dose, take one as soon as you remember unless it is nearly time for your next dose, in which case leave out the missed dose. Do not take two doses together to make up for a missed dose.

Getting the most from your treatment

  • Keep your regular doctor's appointment so your progress can be monitored.
  • If you need to take etodolac for a long time, your doctor may want to prescribe another medicine along with it to protect your stomach from irritation.
  • If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with etodolac.
  • If you are having an operation or any dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.

Can etodolac cause problems?

Along with their useful effects, most medicines can cause unwanted side-effects although not everyone experiences them. These usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine, but speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side-effects continue or become troublesome.

Possible side-effectsWhat can I do if I experience this
Indigestion, heartburn, stomach painTry taking your dose with a glass of milk or after a meal. If the discomfort continues, speak with your doctor
Feeling or being sickEat little and often. Stick to simple or bland foods - avoid rich or spicy food
DiarrhoeaDrink plenty of water to replace the lost fluids
Drowsiness, dizziness, tirednessMake sure your reactions are normal before driving, operating any machinery or doing any other jobs which could be dangerous if you were not fully alert
Other possible side-effects: constipation, wind, headache, nervousness, confusion, mood changes, sore mouth, palpitations, shakiness, skin itchiness and rash, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), tingling in the hands or toes, increased frequency of passing urine, and difficulty sleepingIf any of these become troublesome, speak with your doctor

Important: If you experience any of the following, speak with your doctor immediately or go to your local accident and emergency department without delay:

  • Any sign of bleeding in the stomach or intestine, such as blood in vomit or dark stools.
  • Any shortness of breath, or swelling of the mouth or face.
  • A severe skin rash.
  • A severe headache with a high temperature and a stiff neck.

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store etodolac

  • Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
  • Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines


  • Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of this medicine, go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Take the container with you, even if it is empty.
  • This medicine is for you. Never give it to other people even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
  • Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you.
  • If you have any questions about this medicine ask your pharmacist.

References

  • Manufacturer’s PIL, Eccoxolac®, Meda Pharmaceuticals, electronic Medicines Compendium. Dated March 2007.
  • Manufacturer’s PIL, Lodine® SR, Almirall Limited, electronic Medicines Compendium. Dated April 2010.
  • British National Formulary; 60th Edition (September 2010) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London.
Comprehensive patient resources are available at www.patient.co.uk
© EMIS 2011DocID: 3311DocRef: dils2259Last Reviewed: 10 Mar 2011Version: 22
For the planned review period see the Data Creation and Quality Control Process.
Provide feedback