Etodolac

Generic name: etodolac [ ee-toe-DOE-lak ]
Brand names: Lodine, Lodine XL

Drug Class: Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID)

Dosage Form:

• Tablets
• Extended-Release Tablets
• Capsules

Route of Administration: Oral

Dose:

• Tablets: 400 mg, 500 mg
• Extended-Release Tablets: 400 mg, 500 mg, 600 mg
• Capsules: 200 mg, 300 mg

Mechanism of Action: Etodolac works by inhibiting the enzyme cyclooxygenase (COX), which is involved in the synthesis of prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are chemicals that are important in promoting inflammation, pain, and fever. By inhibiting COX, etodolac reduces the levels of prostaglandins, thereby reducing inflammation, pain, and fever.

Drug Usage Cases: Etodolac is used to relieve pain from various conditions. It is also used to reduce pain, swelling, and joint stiffness from arthritis.

Drug Contraindications: Contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to etodolac, patients who have experienced asthma, urticaria, or allergic-type reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs. Serious gastrointestinal bleeding, ulceration, and perforation can occur with or without warning symptoms in patients treated with NSAIDs.

Side Effects: Common side effects include nausea, stomach pain, headache, dizziness, and rash. Serious side effects can include heart attack, stroke, gastrointestinal ulcers and bleeding, liver damage, and kidney damage.

Warnings: NSAIDs, including etodolac, can lead to the onset of new hypertension or worsening of pre-existing hypertension, which may contribute to the increased incidence of cardiovascular events. Use with caution in patients with cardiovascular disease or risk factors for cardiovascular disease. Etodolac should be used with caution in patients with a history of ulcer disease or gastrointestinal bleeding.

Use During Pregnancy or Breastfeeding: Etodolac is classified under FDA Pregnancy Category C during the first two trimesters of pregnancy and Category D during the third trimester. It is not recommended for use in pregnant women due to the potential for harm to the developing fetus. It is not known if etodolac is excreted in human milk; caution should be exercised when etodolac is administered to a nursing woman.