Etoricoxib
Uses of Etoricoxib
Etoricoxib is commonly used in the treatment of ankylosing spondylitis, arthralgia/joint pain, gout, muscle pain, osteoarthritis, pain during menstruation, post-operative pain and rheumatoid arthritis.
How Etoricoxib Works
Etoricoxib is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAIDs) and works as a selective inhibitor of COX-2. Which responsible for inducing pro-inflammatory stimulus and is hypothesized as the cause for the synthesis of prostanoid mediators of pain, inflammation, and fever.
Side Effects of Etoricoxib
Abdominal pain, Peptic ulcer disease, Diarrhea, Vomiting, Jaundice, Anxiety, Insomnia, Blurred vision, Bronchospasm, Rash, Renal failure
Warnings
Kidney Use With Care
Etoricoxib is not recommended to be used in patients with severe renal disease however, if there is a need for starting the drug in such patients, it is important to monitor the renal function closely. If the renal perfusion is compromised, the usage of Etoricoxib may reduce Etoricoxib formation and impair renal function. Therefore, patients with pre-existing impaired renal function, uncompensated heart failure or liver cirrhosis would require monitoring of renal function if they are using this drug.
Alcohol Safe
It is safe to consume alcohol while taking NSAIDs but it is recommended to drink in moderation as too much alcohol may irritate the stomach.
Pregnancy Not Safe
It is not recommended to use Etoricoxib in women trying to conceive. There is limited human data on the effects of Etoricoxib in pregnancy however, animal studies have shown that it can cause adverse effects to the fetus. As Etoricoxib inhibits Etoricoxib synthesis, this may cause uterine inertia and premature closure of ductus arteriosus in the last trimester of pregnancy. The risk for humans remained unknown. It is best to avoid Etoricoxib during pregnancy if possible.
Driving Generally Safe
Etoricoxib usually does not affect the ability to drive. Do not drive unless you are feeling well.
Liver Limited Data
If a patient has symptoms or signs suggestive of liver impairment, or abnormal liver function test, the following tests must be evaluated for persistently abnormal liver function. If persistently abnormal liver function tests ( three times the upper limit of normal) are found, Etoricoxib should be discontinued.
Lactation Limited Data
It is found that Etoricoxib is excreted in the milk of lactating animals though it is not known whether it is excreted in human breast milk. Since many drugs are excreted in breast milk and there is a potential risk to the breastfeeding infant, the decision to discontinue breastfeeding or stop taking Etoricoxib depends on the importance of Etoricoxib to the mother.
Frequently Asked Questions
Written by Dr Sri Viknarajan, MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)
Reviewed by Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli, MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).
