Common Use

Arcoxia is prescribed to manage acute and chronic osteoarthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, acute gouty arthritis, and chronic musculoskeletal pain. It contains etoricoxib, a selective COX-2 inhibitor that blocks prostaglandin production, substances responsible for inflammation, pain, and fever. Arcoxia does not affect platelet function or gastrointestinal mucosa.

Dosage and Directions

Take Arcoxia tablets orally with water, with or without food. The recommended dosage varies by condition:

• Osteoarthritis: 60 mg once daily.
• Rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis: 90 mg once daily.
• Acute gouty arthritis: 120 mg once daily for no more than eight days.
• Chronic pain: 60 mg once daily.

Always follow your doctor's prescription and do not exceed the recommended dose.

Precautions

Consult your doctor before using Arcoxia if you:

• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding.
• Have a history of allergies to Arcoxia or NSAIDs.
• Have experienced heart failure, heart attack, bypass surgery, chest pain, stroke, or arterial blockages.
• Have conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, or are a smoker.

Extra caution is needed for patients over 65 or those with lactase deficiency, as the tablet coating contains lactose.

Contraindications

Arcoxia is not recommended for individuals with:

• Hypersensitivity to its components.
• Infancy, pregnancy, or breastfeeding.
• Bronchial asthma, nasal polyps, or aspirin/NSAID intolerance.
• Gastrointestinal ulcers, bleeding, or inflammatory bowel disease.
• Severe heart, liver, or kidney failure.
• Hyperkalemia or uncontrolled hypertension.

Possible Side Effects

Common side effects include:

• Swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet.
• Nausea, vomiting, heartburn, or indigestion.
• Stomach pain or diarrhea.
• High blood pressure, dizziness, or headaches.

Drug Interactions

Inform your doctor about all medications you are taking, especially:

• Warfarin or ACE inhibitors.
• Acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin) to avoid gastrointestinal ulcers.
• Rifampicin, which may reduce Arcoxia's effectiveness.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, skip it and continue with the next scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose.

Overdose

Seek immediate medical attention if you suspect an overdose, even if no symptoms are present.

Storage

Store Arcoxia at room temperature (59-86°F or 15-30°C), away from moisture and sunlight. Avoid storing it in the bathroom.

Disclaimer

This information is for general purposes only and does not cover all instructions, drug interactions, or precautions. Do not use this information for self-treatment or diagnosis. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance. We are not responsible for any consequences resulting from the use of this information or self-treatment.