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Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), COX-2 selective inhibitor

Etoricoxib: uses, side effects & precautions

Also known as Arcoxia.

Esta información es solo orientativa de carácter general y no constituye un consejo médico. Consulta siempre a un profesional sanitario cualificado para cualquier asunto médico personal. En caso de emergencia, llama al número de emergencias de tu zona.

What it is used for

  • Pain and inflammation from osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis
  • Ankylosing spondylitis
  • Acute gout attacks
  • Some forms of acute pain such as after dental surgery

How it works

Etoricoxib selectively blocks the COX-2 enzyme involved in pain and inflammation, with less effect on the stomach-protecting COX-1, which can mean fewer stomach ulcers than older NSAIDs.

How it is taken

Comes as tablets taken by mouth. Take it exactly as your doctor or the label directs, with or without food (it may work faster on an empty stomach). It is a prescription medicine and not available in every country, so use it only under medical guidance.

No doses here on purpose. The right strength and schedule depend on you — only a doctor or pharmacist should set them. Always follow your prescription and the label.

Common side effects

  • Headache or dizziness
  • Indigestion or stomach discomfort
  • Swelling of the ankles or feet
  • Raised blood pressure

Serious effects — get help

  • Heart attack or stroke warning signs (chest pain, breathlessness, one-sided weakness)
  • Stomach or gut bleeding or ulcers
  • Serious allergic or severe skin reactions
  • Signs of liver or kidney problems (yellowing skin, reduced urination, swelling)
  • Very high blood pressure

If a reaction is severe — for example trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or collapse — go to the nearest emergency room now or call your local emergency number. Do not wait for an online consultation.

Interactions to watch

  • Other NSAIDs and aspirin
  • Blood thinners such as warfarin
  • Some blood pressure medicines and diuretics
  • Lithium and methotrexate
  • Certain hormonal medicines
  • Alcohol

Who should take care

  • Not recommended for people with uncontrolled high blood pressure or significant heart disease
  • Avoided in late pregnancy; use only on clinician advice otherwise
  • Blood pressure should be checked before and during treatment
  • Tell your doctor about heart disease, high blood pressure, ulcers, or kidney or liver problems
  • Use the lowest effective amount for the shortest time

Frequently asked questions

Is etoricoxib gentler on the stomach?
By targeting COX-2 it tends to cause fewer stomach ulcers than older NSAIDs, but it still carries heart, blood pressure and kidney cautions.
Why does my blood pressure need checking?
Etoricoxib can raise blood pressure, so your doctor checks it before and during treatment, especially if you already have hypertension.
Can it be used for gout?
Yes, it is used to relieve the pain and inflammation of acute gout attacks. Your doctor decides if it is appropriate for you.
Is it available everywhere?
It is approved in many countries but not all, and is prescription-only where available. Use it only under medical supervision.
Is Etoricoxib safe to take?
For most people it is safe when taken exactly as a doctor or pharmacist advises and as printed on the label. Tell your clinician about your other medicines and health conditions, and seek urgent care for any serious reaction.

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