Arcoxia

What is Arcoxia used for?

Arcoxia (etoricoxib) is a selective COX-2 inhibitor, a type of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It works by inhibiting the COX-2 enzyme responsible for inflammation and pain, reducing prostaglandin production, thereby relieving pain and swelling from arthritis, gout and other acute pain (including menstrual pain). It carries a lower GI risk than traditional NSAIDs but requires cardiovascular caution.

How to take Arcoxia and adjust the dose

This is a prescription-only medicine that must be taken under a doctor's supervision. Osteoarthritis: 30 or 60mg once daily. Rheumatoid arthritis/ankylosing spondylitis: 60mg once daily, may increase to 90mg if insufficient relief, then reduce back to 60mg once stabilized. Acute gouty arthritis: 120mg once daily, generally for no more than 8 days. Acute pain (e.g. menstrual pain): up to 120mg daily, short-term use. Recommended to take after food to reduce GI discomfort. Do not adjust the dose or extend the treatment course without medical advice.

Arcoxia side effects

• Common: headache, dizziness, stomach pain, indigestion, raised blood pressure
• Serious (rare but important): heart attack, stroke, severe allergic reaction, abnormal liver function, kidney impairment, fluid retention/edema

Who should not take Arcoxia?

• Allergy to etoricoxib or other NSAIDs
• Severe heart disease or heart failure
• Uncontrolled hypertension
• History of ischemic heart disease or peripheral vascular disease
• Active peptic ulcer or GI bleeding
• Severe liver or kidney impairment
• Pregnancy (especially third trimester) and breastfeeding
• Children under 16