Etoricoxib can ease severe joint pain fast — but it’s not risk-free. If you are thinking about this drug, know what it treats, how to use it safely, and when to avoid it.
Etoricoxib is a selective COX-2 inhibitor. Doctors prescribe it for osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and acute gout. It reduces inflammation and pain with less stomach upset than older NSAIDs for some people.
Typical starting doses vary by condition. For osteoarthritis doctors often use 30 mg once daily. For rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis doses commonly range from 60 to 90 mg daily. Acute gout pain may need 120 mg for a short period. The usual maximum is 120 mg per day. Always follow your doctor’s dose and stop if you get worrying symptoms.
Common side effects include headache, dizziness, stomach pain, and swelling of legs or ankles. More serious risks include increased chance of heart attack or stroke, high blood pressure, serious stomach bleeding, kidney problems, and liver injury. The cardiovascular risk may rise with higher doses and long-term use. People with existing heart disease or high stroke risk should avoid it unless a doctor says otherwise.
Before you start etoricoxib tell your doctor if you have heart disease, high blood pressure, kidney or liver disease, a history of stomach ulcers, bleeding problems, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Do not take etoricoxib in the third trimester of pregnancy. Older adults may need lower doses and closer monitoring.
Avoid mixing etoricoxib with other NSAIDs like ibuprofen or naproxen. Combining increases the chance of bleeding and kidney harm. Use caution if you take blood thinners such as warfarin, antiplatelet drugs, ACE inhibitors, ARBs, diuretics, or certain antidepressants. Alcohol can raise the risk of stomach bleeding, so limit drinks while on the drug.
Practical tips: use the lowest effective dose for the shortest time that controls your symptoms. Check your blood pressure while taking it, and ask your doctor about kidney and liver blood tests if you plan to use it for months. Report sudden chest pain, shortness of breath, severe stomach pain, black stools, or yellowing of the skin to a doctor right away.
Alternatives include non-selective NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen), acetaminophen for mild pain, topical NSAIDs, and for long-term inflammatory disease, disease-modifying drugs prescribed by a rheumatologist. Choice depends on your condition, other health issues, and risk profile.
If you are buying medicines online, make sure the source is reputable and requires a prescription where appropriate. Fake or poor-quality drugs can be dangerous.
Talk with your clinician before starting or stopping etoricoxib. They can weigh benefits and risks based on your health and find the safest plan for pain control.
Etoricoxib is sold under the brand name Arcoxia in many countries and is available only with a prescription. It is not approved by the FDA for use in the United States. If your medication name is different, check the active ingredient. Always keep a record of what you take and read the leaflet for side effect details.
In my latest blog post, I delve into the effects of Etoricoxib on cardiovascular health. This drug, mainly used to treat arthritis and chronic pain, has raised some concerns due to its potential impact on the heart. Some studies suggest it can increase the risk of heart disease, with higher doses seemingly posing more risk. However, it's essential to note that the relationship between Etoricoxib and cardiovascular health is complex and more research is needed. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new medication.