Etodolac (By Mouth)

Etodolac (ee-TOE-doe-lak)

Treats pain caused by arthritis and other medical problems. Belongs to a class of drugs called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Brand Name(s):

Lodine, Lodine XL
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to etodolac, aspirin, or other pain and arthritis medicines, such as Motrin®, Naprosyn® or Aleve®, Indocin®, or Clinoril®. The reaction may have included wheezing or feeling short of breath, hives, rash, or swelling in the face.

How to Use This Medicine:

Capsule, Tablet, Long Acting Tablet

• Your doctor will tell you how much to take and how often.
• Take with a full glass of water.
• You may take the medicine with food or antacids (such as Maalox® or Mylanta®) so it does not upset your stomach.
• Swallow the capsule and extended-release tablet (Lodine XL®) whole. Do not crush, break, or chew.

If a dose is missed:

• Take the missed dose as soon as possible.
• If it is almost time for your next regular dose, wait until then to take your medicine and skip the missed dose.
• You should not use two doses at the same time.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Store at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• You should not use this medicine with aspirin or products that contain aspirin, naproxen (Aleve®), or ibuprofen (Advil® or Motrin®).
• Avoid drinking alcohol while you are taking this medicine.
• Make sure your doctor knows if you are taking Coumadin®.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Talk with your doctor before taking etodolac if you are pregnant or breastfeeding or have heart disease, high blood pressure, blood disorders, liver or kidney disease, or ulcers or other stomach problems. This medicine should not be taken during the last 3 months of a pregnancy.
• Ulcers and stomach bleeding are sometimes caused by this type of medicine. These problems can happen without warning signs. You may need to see your doctor for regular check-ups while being treated with this medicine.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Severe rash, itching, or hives
• Rapid swelling in the face or around the eyes
• Chest tightness, wheezing or trouble breathing
• Severe stomach pain or bloody vomit
• Black, tarry, or bloody stools
• Decrease amount of urine
• Unusual bruising or bleeding
• Yellowing of skin or eyes

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Mild nausea or vomiting
• Gas, indigestion or mild stomach pain
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Ringing in the ears
• Blurred vision
• Weight gain or swelling of feet or legs
• Dizziness
• Sensitivity of skin to sunlight

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.