Etodolac

(generic for Lodine)

This is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication similar to Motrin.  It is more effective for most people.  It is generally well tolerated and seems to cause less stomach upset than most in its class.  It occasionally causes diarrhea.  Stop the medicine if you develop stomach upset, heartburn, or diarrhea.  It can be used while driving or working.  It can be used with other painkillers (like Vicodin) and with other muscle relaxants (like Soma or Valium).  We stock this medicine because it is effective, has a low rate of side effects and is inexpensive.

The following is the package insert.  It is complete and lengthy but not easily understood

Etodolac Tablets

A nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) for the acute or long-term treatment of signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, and for the management of pain in adults.

Precautions: DO NOT USE if you are allergic to this medicine, any of its ingredients, or any other NSAID; or if you are allergic to aspirin.

BEFORE USING THIS MEDICATION, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding; if you are taking, will be taking, or stop taking any prescription or nonprescription medicine; if you have any other medical conditions such as alcoholism, asthma, bleeding disorders, dehydration, heart disease or failure, high blood pressure, infection, kidney or liver disease, poor general health, or a history of peptic ulcer or gastrointestinal bleeding or disease; or if you are taking anticoagulants, corticosteroids, or diuretics.

Side Effects: Every medicine can cause side effects, but many people have no, or minor, side effects. Tell your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following occurs: Nausea; vomiting; indigestion; stomach upset or pain; diarrhea; constipation; belching; gas; appetite changes; blood in stool; mouth sores; drowsiness; fatigue; dizziness; nervousness; depression; sleeplessness; sleepiness; weakness; changes in blood pressure; pounding in the chest; rash; hives; itching; redness, irritation, peeling, or discoloration of the skin; flushing; visual disturbances; blurred or double vision; ringing in the ears; unexplained bleeding or bruising; general body discomfort; yellowing of skin or eyes; fainting; fluid retention; fever; chills; sweating; thirst; swelling of the arms or legs; asthma; dry mouth; changes in blood sugar; flu-like symptoms; sensitivity to sunlight.

Guidelines for Use: USE EXACTLY AS PRESCRIBED.

• Dosage will be individualized. Take exactly as prescribed. Do not change the dose or discontinue use unless advised to do so by your doctor.
• The lowest dose possible should be used for each patient.
• Take with food, milk, or antacids if stomach upset occurs.
• Avoid aspirin or alcoholic beverages while taking this medicine.
• Long-term use may cause serious gastrointestinal problems such as bleeding, ulceration, or perforation. Notify your doctor of signs of ulceration and bleeding (eg, bloody vomit, black or bloody stools, dizziness).
• May cause drowsiness, dizziness, or blurred vision. Use caution while driving or performing other tasks that require alertness, coordination, or physical dexterity.
• May cause sensitivity to sunlight. Avoid prolonged exposure to the sun or other forms of ultraviolet (UV) light (eg, tanning beds). Use sunscreens and wear protective clothing until tolerance is determined.
• Notify your doctor immediately if you experience skin rash, itching, visual disturbances, weight gain, swelling, stomach pain, black stools, bloody vomit, fatigue, lethargy, flu-like symptoms, yellowing of the skin or eyes, nausea, or persistent headache.
• Lab tests may be required to monitor therapy. Be sure to keep appointments.
• Store at controlled room temperature (68 to 77 degrees F). Protect from moisture.

This information is advisory only; it does not contain all information about this medicine. If you have any questions about your medicine, ask your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

Copyright 2000 by Facts and Comparisons, used by permission of Southwood Pharmaceuticals

Go to the next page on the medication hydrocodone (generic for Vicodin).

Go to the next chapter on orthotics.