Etoricoxib

1 medicine

Etoricoxib is a COX-2 selective NSAID used for arthritis and acute pain. It is contraindicated in uncontrolled high blood pressure and in people with heart disease or a history of stroke because it raises cardiovascular risk.

Arcoxia

Etoricoxib

60/90/120mg

Arcoxia is a painkillers medication containing Etoricoxib, available as 60/90/120mg tablets.

from $0.67 / tablet View

Key facts

  • Etoricoxib is a COX-2 selective anti-inflammatory drug used for osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, gout attacks, and short-term pain such as after dental surgery.
  • It's taken once a day by mouth, with or without food, and effects on pain typically begin within an hour or two.
  • Etoricoxib raises the risk of heart attack and stroke and is contraindicated in people with uncontrolled high blood pressure, heart disease, or a previous stroke.
  • Seek urgent care for chest pain, sudden weakness on one side of the body, slurred speech, or shortness of breath.

What etoricoxib treats

Etoricoxib treats pain and inflammation in osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis, and is used for acute gout attacks and short-term pain after surgical or dental procedures. It is not a treatment for the underlying joint damage, only its pain and swelling.

How etoricoxib works

Etoricoxib selectively blocks the COX-2 enzyme, which produces the prostaglandins responsible for pain, swelling and fever, while largely sparing the COX-1 enzyme that protects the stomach lining. This gives pain relief with a somewhat lower risk of stomach ulcers than older NSAIDs, though its cardiovascular risk is higher.

Before you take it

  • Do not take etoricoxib if you have uncontrolled high blood pressure, ischaemic heart disease, heart failure, or a history of stroke or mini-stroke.
  • Avoid it if you have active stomach or intestinal ulcers or bleeding, significant liver or kidney disease, or an allergic reaction to aspirin or another NSAID.
  • Avoid etoricoxib in the last three months of pregnancy.
  • Tell your doctor about blood pressure medicines, blood thinners, and other NSAIDs, since combining them raises bleeding and blood pressure risks.

Side effects

Common effects include indigestion, mild swelling of the ankles, and a rise in blood pressure.

Stop and seek urgent medical care for any of these:

  • Chest pain, shortness of breath, sudden weakness, or slurred speech.
  • Black or bloody stools, or vomiting blood.
  • Sudden swelling of the face, lips or throat.
  • Yellowing of the skin or eyes.

Safety essentials

  • Have your blood pressure checked before starting etoricoxib and periodically during treatment. Stop the drug and seek medical advice if it rises significantly.
  • Do not use etoricoxib if you have established heart disease, heart failure, or a history of stroke, since it increases the risk of further cardiovascular events.
  • Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest time needed, and avoid combining it with other NSAIDs or aspirin unless a doctor has advised otherwise.

This page is educational and does not replace advice from a doctor or pharmacist who knows your health history.