Arcoxia

Uses
Arcoxia (Etoricoxib) is a type non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) which belongs to a specific group of medicines known as COX-2 inhibitors. It is indicated for the treatment of inflammation and pain caused by conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis and osteoarthritis (a degenerative disease affecting the joints which occurs due to the breakdown of cartilage). Other uses include being administered on a short term basis to relieve pain caused by dental surgery and treating acute gout (joint inflammation triggered by high uric acid levels).

This medicine is different to certain other NSAIDs as it does not block COX-1, an enzyme which plays an important role in maintaining the health of the stomach and intestines. COX-1 also does not produce prostaglandins. Instead, it selectively inhibits the action of a different form of cyclo-oxygenase, known as COX-2. This enzyme is known to produce prostaglandins (compounds which can contribute to pain and inflammation). Blocking COX-2 helps prevent these prostaglandins from being produced, which leads to a reduction in pain and inflammation. By not inhibiting COX-1, this medicine also reduces the risk of side effects on the stomach which may occur with other NSAIDs.

Dosage and Administration
Arcoxia (Etoricoxib) tablets contain 90mg of the active ingredient. The dosage will be individualised by your doctor, who will take various factors into account, such as the specific condition requiring treatment and the medical response. Adults taking this medicine for rheumatoid arthritis or ankylosing spondylitis may be told by their doctor to take 90mg per day. It is worth noting that this may differ for certain patients, depending on the opinion of their doctor. Also, other conditions such as osteoarthritis, gout and acute pain may require a different amount of medicine. In all cases, you must follow the instructions of your doctor and never exceed the recommended dosage.

Side effects
Patients who are being treated with Arcoxia (Etoricoxib) may experience side effects, such as:

• Headache
• Dyspepsia
• Loose stools
• Cold symptoms
• Spinning sensation

Your doctor should be informed of any reactions which occur. Other less common side effects include appetite or body weight changes, pins and needles, muscular cramps, blurring of vision and ringing in the ears. The list of side effects provided here is not complete and other reactions may also occur. Although it is considered to be less common, some patients may be affected by serious reactions when taking this medicine. You must seek emergency medical attention if any serious side effects are noticed during treatment.

Precautions
If you are undergoing treatment with this medicine on a long term basis, your doctor may schedule medical appointments so that blood tests can be conducted. This is to monitor the function of your liver. You must attend all scheduled visits to your doctor.

You will need medical treatment immediately if any signs of intestinal bleeding or bleeding from the stomach occur, such as bloody stools.

Seek immediate emergency medical attention if you suffer an allergic reaction. Symptoms to watch for, which may be indicative of a reaction, include skin rashes, hives, swelling of the face or limbs, trouble breathing, and trouble swallowing.

Always use Arcoxia (Etoricoxib) as you have been prescribed by your doctor. Never self-medicate or change your dosage without first consulting your doctor. The correct dosage can vary depending on your health, medical history, and the severity of the condition being treated.

This medication may not be safe for all patients. Before you begin using it always disclose the following to your doctor:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• If you suffer from any allergies.
• If you suffer from any other health conditions or illnesses.
• If you are using any other medicine (including all non-prescription).
• If you are using any supplements, vitamins, or herbal products of any kind.