home > drugs a-z list > etodolac xr (etodolac extended release) drug center > etodolac xr (etodolac extended release) drug - consumer uses and warnings

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.

ETODOLAC - ORAL

(e-TOE-doe-lak)

WARNING: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (including etodolac) may rarely increase the risk for a heart attack or stroke. The risk may be increased if you have heart disease or increased risk for heart disease (due to conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes), or with longer use. This drug should not be taken right before or after heart bypass surgery (CABG).

This drug may infrequently cause serious (rarely fatal) bleeding from the stomach or intestines. This effect can occur without warning at any time while taking this drug. Older adults may be at higher risk for this effect.

Stop taking etodolac and get medical help right away if you notice any of these rare but serious side effects: black/tarry stools, persistent stomach/abdominal pain, vomit that looks like coffee grounds, chest/jaw/left arm pain, shortness of breath, unusual sweating, confusion, weakness on one side of the body, slurred speech, sudden vision changes.

Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about the benefits and risks of taking this drug.

USES: Etodolac is used to relieve pain from various conditions. It also reduces pain, swelling, and joint stiffness from arthritis. This medication is known as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It works by blocking your body's production of certain natural substances that cause inflammation.

HOW TO USE: Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you start using etodolac and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually 2 or 3 times a day with a full glass of water (8 ounces/240 milliliters). Do not lie down for at least 10 minutes after taking this drug. To prevent stomach upset, take this medication with food, milk, or an antacid.

The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. To reduce your risk of stomach bleeding and other side effects, take this medication at the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible time. Do not increase your dose or take it more often than directed. For ongoing conditions such as arthritis, continue taking this medication as directed by your doctor.

If you are taking this drug "as needed" (not on a regular schedule), remember that pain medications work best if they are used as the first signs of pain occur. If you wait until the pain has worsened, the medication may not work as well.

For certain conditions (such as arthritis), it may take up to two weeks of taking this drug regularly until you get the full benefit.

Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens.