Unveiling the Power of Etodolac - Pain Relief Redefined

Overview:

Etodolac is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that was first approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1991 for treating acute and chronic pain in rheumatoid arthritis. After its initial approval, the drug has been used for several other purposes, including the management of acute pain and juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. The drug reduces the pain-causing mediators and relieves any symptoms of pain.

How Does Etodolac Work?

Etodolac is an anti-inflammatory drug that is used to relieve pain and reduce inflammation by blocking certain chemicals in the body. The drug is frequently used in the treatment of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and acute pain caused by injury or surgery. The drug gives anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting the enzyme cyclooxygenase. This reduces the prostaglandins which are involved in mediating the inflammatory action. This binds with the upper portion of the cyclooxygenase enzyme and prevents the arachidonic acid from entering into the active site. The drug is more selective toward COX-2 than COX-1. The antipyretic action will occur in the hypothalamus, which results in dilation of the peripheral vessels and increases cutaneous blood flow and resulting in heat loss.

Uses:

The uses of Etodolac are mentioned below:

• To treat acute pain caused by injury.

• Rheumatoid arthritis.

• Osteoarthritis.

• Inflammation.

• Swelling.

• Joint pain.

Dosage:

The drug is available in different doses; however, the doctor may prescribe different doses depending on the severity of the condition. A starting dose of 300 to 400 milligrams is initially recommended. This may be gradually increased, depending on the symptoms, to a maximum dose of 1200 mg.

Warnings:

The following are some of the warnings to be kept in mind before undergoing treatment.

• Risk of heart diseases.

• Increased gastrointestinal bleeding.

• Damages to kidney and liver.

• Chances of allergic reactions.

• Avoid drug administration in the third trimester of pregnancy.

For Patients

What Is Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are conditions causing pain and stiffness in joints.

But the conditions could have different underlying causes. It varies in each individual.

• In the case of osteoarthritis, the cartilage cushioning the bone joints may break down with time, causing stiffness and swelling. It is normally seen in older adults and is associated with wear and tear on joints.

• Rheumatoid arthritis affects the body’s immune system, in which the cells of the joints are mistakenly attacked, causing inflammation and damage to the surrounding tissues.

• Both conditions could have similar symptoms but may require different treatment plans. For osteoarthritis, the medications aid with pain management and physical therapy to strengthen muscles. In addition, lifestyle changes and weight loss may be required for a healthy life. In the case of rheumatoid arthritis, the medications aim at suppressing the immune system to limit the symptoms and promote healing.

Learn More About Etodolac:

When and How Often to Take Etodolac?

The drug can be consumed as capsules and tablets, which are to be taken orally. The tablets are recommended to be taken three times a day to treat arthritis. For pain relief, the drug is consumed at intervals of six to eight hours. Daily consumption of the drug can be highly beneficial and aid in better treatment and recovery. It is always best to consume the dose as per the doctor’s recommendation. Higher or lower doses could cause serious adverse effects; hence, they should be avoided. In the case of consuming extended-release tablets, it is better to swallow the tablet. Avoid spitting, chewing, or crushing the tablets. In patients with arthritis, the drug is initially administered in higher doses; as the symptoms subside, the doctor may gradually decrease the dose.

How Effective Is Etodolac?

The drug is effective in managing pain and inflammation associated with different conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis, and there are several studies confirming the efficacy of the drug.

Things to Inform the Doctor Before They Prescribe Etodolac:

• Before the drug intake, inform the doctor of any allergic reactions to drugs and any drug ingredients.

• A proper drug and medical history could help the doctor prescribe the medications promptly and avoid unwanted drug interactions.

• In the case of a previous history of asthma or nasal polyps, kindly inform the doctor.

• Patients planning for pregnancy should inform the doctor regarding the same to avoid any birth defects in children.

• Breastfeeding women should avoid consuming Etodolac, as it may not be safe for the child.

• Elderly individuals above the age of 70 are advised to be cautious about the risks.

How to Take Etodolac?

Etodolac is to be consumed orally with or after a meal. It may be prescribed twice or thrice daily as per the severity of the condition. Consuming the drug with meals could avoid stomach upset. Avoid breaking the tablet, it may affect the efficacy of the drug.

Things to Do After Starting Etodolac:

Constantly go for regular health checkups to keep track of the disease's progression. In cases of better progression, the doctor may decrease the dose according to the symptoms.

Side Effects of Etodolac

Similar to other drugs, Etodolac may also cause various side effects. For example:

• Nausea.

• Vomiting.

• Stomach upset.

• Headache.

• Gas.

• Bloating.

• Dizziness.

• Skin rash.

• Itching.

• Swelling in the ankles.

• Seizures.

• Convulsion.

• Allergic reactions.

• Shortness of breath.

• Chest pain.

• Slurred speech.

• Weakness.

• Black stools.

Dietary Alterations

Specific dietary alterations are not recommended for this drug. However, consuming the drug with milk or food can save the individual from stomach upset or gastrointestinal issues. Restricting alcohol limits can limit stomach bleeding.

What Should Be Done When a Dose Is Missed?

In the event of missing a dose, it is safer to consume it as soon as the individual remembers. If the next dose is due, then avoid overdosing at the same time and skip one dose. Missing a dose could affect the individual's health and delay the process of recovery. Inform the doctor in cases where individuals have missed the dose to reduce side effects or complications.

What Should Be Done to Treat an Etodolac Overdose?

In the case of overdosing on the drug, immediately call emergency services for help. The following symptoms are noticed in individuals with Etodolac:

• Nausea.

• Drowsiness.

• Dizziness.

• Headache.

• Seizures.

• Coma.

Treating an Etodolac overdose includes using activated charcoal, as it helps reduce the absorption of the drug. It helps flush out unwanted substances. If required, supportive care and breathing assistance may be provided. It is important to monitor vital signs like blood pressure and heart rate.

Storage

The ideal temperature to store Etodolac is between 20 and 25 degrees Celsius. Keep it away from light and moisture. Keep the drug in a tightly sealed container and do not transfer it to other containers unintentionally.

How to Handle Etodolac?

• Wash one's hands thoroughly before handling the drug to prevent any contamination.

• Use gloves to take the drug and avoid touching multiple tablets at a time.

• Place the drug away from the sight of children.

• In the event of any unusual symptoms, consult the doctor immediately.

Disposal

In case there is any unused drug, it is better to contact local take-back programs and dispose of the drugs safely. Avoid flushing down toilets and disposing of regular waste, as it could be hazardous to the environment.

• Avoid Self-Medication: Using medication without proper medical guidance could lead to serious side effects and drug interactions. Also, self-medication could delay the treatment process. Some medications could lead to habit formation and may lead to dependence; hence, it is safer to avoid them.

• Tips to Stay on Track: To avoid skipping the drug, keep a reminder on the phone. This could make it routine and help with a better prognosis for the condition.

For Doctors

Indication:

The drug can be prescribed for the following medical conditions

• Osteoarthritis - It helps relieve pain and inflammation associated with the condition, which is common in elderly adults.

• Ankylosing Spondylitis - It helps to treat pain in this medical condition that affects the spine and pelvis.

• Acute Pain - It is used to treat local pain that occurs during any injury, surgery, or dental procedure.

• Menstrual Cramps - The drug is used to treat menstrual cramps in women by relieving pain.

• Rheumatoid Arthritis - The drug relieves pain and inflammation in this autoimmune disorder (a condition in which the cells of the body affect normal cells by falsely considering them to be foreign bodies).

Pharmacology:

Taxonomy:

• Kingdom: Organic compounds.

• Superclass: Benzenoids.

• Class: Benzene and substituted derivatives.

• Subclass: Phenylpropionic acids.

• Intermediate: Aryl-phenyl propionic acid derivatives.

• Chemical family: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Mechanism of Action:

The drug belongs to the class of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Its mechanism of action helps to inhibit cyclooxygenase enzymes. The drug specifically inhibits COX-1 and COX-2 which play an important role in converting arachidonic acid to prostaglandins, which are involved in mediating the inflammatory process.

The inhibition of the COX pathway helps to reduce the production of prostaglandins and leads to decreased pain, inflammation, and fever. The drug has a higher affinity for COX-2, making it a preferential inhibitor. This selectivity helps to decrease the risk of gastrointestinal side effects associated with inhibiting COX-1 like gastric ulcers. Other additional properties of the drug include analgesic and antipyretic actions, which are mediated through the central nervous system.

Pharmacodynamics:

The gastrointestinal tract absorbs the drug and has a peak plasma concentration of about one to two hours. The liver metabolizes the drug and excretes it via the urine and feces. The half-life of the drug is about seven to eight hours.

Ingredients:

Active Ingredient:

Etodolac is the active ingredient and is used to treat pain and inflammation by inhibiting prostaglandins that mediate the inflammatory response.

Inactive Ingredients:

The inactive ingredients of the drug could vary depending on the manufacturer and drug formulations. Some common inactive ingredients are listed below.

• Hypromellose.

• Magnesium stearate.

• Microcrystalline cellulose.

• Polyethylene glycol.

• Povidone.

• Sodium sulfate.

• Sodium starch glycolate.

• Titanium dioxide.

• Iron oxide.

Absorption:

The gastrointestinal tract helps with absorption after oral administration, and the bioavailability is approximately 100 percent. Certain foods may delay the time to peak plasma absorption; however, this does not significantly affect their efficacy.

Distribution:

The peak plasma concentration is achieved within two to three hours of the single dose administered. The drug has a high volume of distribution and is highly protein bound.

Metabolism:

The drug undergoes first-pass metabolism in the liver, where it is converted to an active metabolite. The metabolite resembles the pharmacological profile of the parent drug and contributes to its therapeutic effects.

Elimination:

After undergoing complete metabolism, the drug is excreted in the form of urine and feces.

Toxicity:

Overdosing may lead to serious side effects like stomach bleeding, and kidney and liver damage/ Acute toxicity can cause symptoms like nausea and vomiting. Kidney damage is noticed in patients with prolonged use. Liver toxicity is rare with this drug.

Clinical Studies for Etodolac:

In the Journal of Rheumatology, a report states it is effective in reducing pain and inflammation in patients with rheumatoid arthritis and is well-tolerated. Also, the Journal of Clinical Rheumatology states that the drug improves physical function in patients with knee osteoarthritis.

Drug Interactions:

• Etodolac has to be avoided with other NSAIDs as it causes stomach bleeding.

• The drug should not be combined with antiplatelets or anticoagulants.

• Using Etodolac with corticosteroids increases stomach ulcers.

• Etodolac increases lithium levels in the blood, leading to toxicity.

• Etodolac should not be combined with Methotrexate.

• Etodolac decreases the effects of diuretics.

Other Specifications:

• Etodolac in Pregnant Women: The drug should be avoided by pregnant women as it could harm the child during the early stage causing birth defects and premature birth.

• Etodolac in Lactating Women: The drug is excreted in breast milk and can harm the nursing infant. It could cause renal side effects in breastfed infants; however, very limited data are available to support the thesis.

• Etodolac in Pediatric Patients: The drug is contraindicated for children under 18 years as it could cause liver or kidney damage.

• Etodolac in Geriatric Patients: More caution is required while administering the drug to patients as there could be age-related changes in kidney functions.