Arcoxia

What is it?

A selective, COX 2 inhibitor, NSAID (non-steroidal, anti-inflammatory drug) containing etoricoxib. It inhibits cyelo-oxiginase 2, the enzyme that is involved in the production of prostaglandins and hence the inflammatory response. It is available in tablets of three different strengths; green tablets containing 60mg etoricoxib; white tablets containing 90mg etoricoxib; pale green tablets containing 120mg etoricoxib. All film-coated, apple- shaped and marked MSD and 447, 454 and 541, respectively.

Medical Uses

Rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, acute, painful phases of gouty arthritis.

Dosage

Adults and children over 16 years; osteoarthritis: 60mg once each day; rheumatoid arthritis: 90mg once each day; attacks of gouty arthritis: 120mg once each day for a maximum of 8 days.

Special Care

Elderly persons, heart failure, kidney impairment (kidney function should be monitored), cirrhosis and liver impairment (monitor if liver tests are abnormal), cardiac failure, heart conditions involving the left ventricle, high blood pressure, fluid retention, dehydration. If patient has ischaemic heart disease, antiplcrtelet drugs should continue to be given but arcnxic should be withdrawn if the condition worsens.

Avoid Use

Children less than 16 years, pregnant or breastfeeding women, women attempting to conceive, serious cardiac failure, known allergy to aspirin or NSAIDs, severe liver or kidney failure, history of bleeding in gastrointestinal tract, active stomach ulcer.

Possible Drug and Food Interactions

Other NSAIDs, oral contraceptives, drugs that lower blood pressure, tacrolimus, rifampicin, digoxin, lithium, salbutamol, methotrexate, minoxidil, ACE inhibitors, cyclosporin, warfarin, diuretics.

Known Side Effects

Headache, 'flu-like symptoms, weakness, dizziness, gastrointestinal upset, high blood pressure, abdominal pains, raised liver enzymes, fluid retention. Rarely, toxic effects on liver, kidneys and digestive system or serious allergic responses in and beneath skin. Any adverse side effects must be reported to the CSM.