NUCOXIA 120MG

# ETORICOXIB 120 MG ## SHORT DESCRIPTION **Etoricoxib 120 mg** is a prescription **non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)** belonging to the selective **cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitor** class. It is used to relieve **pain, swelling, and inflammation** associated with certain musculoskeletal and joint conditions. The **120 mg strength is generally intended for short-term treatment of acute pain or acute inflammatory conditions**, depending on the approved indication. It should be used at the lowest effective dose for the shortest appropriate duration because higher doses may increase cardiovascular risks. --- ## KEY BENEFITS * Helps relieve **moderate to severe pain** in appropriate conditions. * Reduces **inflammation and swelling**. * Can help improve movement and function in painful joint conditions. * Selectively inhibits COX-2, an enzyme involved in the production of inflammatory prostaglandins. * May provide once-daily dosing for certain approved indications. * Can be useful for short-term treatment of **acute musculoskeletal and dental pain**, depending on the prescription and local approval. --- ## USES / INDICATIONS Etoricoxib may be prescribed for: * **Acute gouty arthritis** * **Acute musculoskeletal pain** * Certain types of **acute dental pain** * Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis at lower approved doses * Ankylosing spondylitis at appropriate doses * Other inflammatory or painful musculoskeletal conditions when specifically prescribed ### Important **Etoricoxib 120 mg is not necessarily appropriate for long-term treatment.** The 120 mg dose is generally used for certain acute conditions and should not be used for longer than the recommended treatment period. --- ## HOW IT WORKS Etoricoxib is a **selective COX-2 inhibitor**. During inflammation, the COX-2 enzyme contributes to the production of prostaglandins. These substances are involved in: * Pain * Inflammation * Swelling * Fever Etoricoxib selectively inhibits COX-2, reducing prostaglandin production. **COX-2 inhibition → reduced prostaglandins → reduced pain and inflammation** Unlike traditional non-selective NSAIDs, etoricoxib has greater selectivity for COX-2 over COX-1 at therapeutic doses. --- ## DOSAGE & ADMINISTRATION **Etoricoxib 120 mg should be taken exactly as prescribed.** For certain acute conditions, adults may be prescribed: * **120 mg once daily** * Treatment with 120 mg is generally limited to the **acute treatment period** specified by the prescriber. ### Administration * Take the tablet orally with water. * It may generally be taken **with or without food**. * Taking it without food may allow the medicine to work somewhat faster. * Take it at approximately the same time each day when used regularly. * Do not take more than the prescribed dose. * Do not combine etoricoxib with another NSAID unless specifically instructed by your healthcare professional. > **Important:** The appropriate dose depends on the condition being treated. Lower doses are generally used for chronic conditions such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. **120 mg should not be used as a routine long-term dose unless specifically prescribed.** ### Missed Dose If you miss a scheduled dose, take it when remembered unless it is close to the next dose. **Do not take two doses together** to make up for a missed dose. --- ## SIDE EFFECTS ### Common Side Effects Possible side effects include: * Stomach discomfort * Indigestion * Heartburn * Nausea * Diarrhea * Headache * Dizziness * Swelling of the legs or feet * Increased blood pressure * Fatigue ### Serious Side Effects Seek medical attention if you develop: * Chest pain or pressure * Shortness of breath * Sudden weakness or numbness * Difficulty speaking * Severe allergic reaction * Facial, lip, tongue, or throat swelling * Black or bloody stools * Vomiting blood * Severe or persistent abdominal pain * Yellowing of the skin or eyes * Significant reduction in urine output * Severe skin rash, blistering, or peeling --- ## PRECAUTIONS & WARNINGS ### Cardiovascular Risk Etoricoxib, like other COX-2 inhibitors, can increase the risk of **heart attack and stroke**, particularly with higher doses, prolonged treatment, and in people who already have cardiovascular risk factors. It should generally be avoided in patients with certain cardiovascular conditions, including: * Established ischemic heart disease * Peripheral arterial disease * Cerebrovascular disease * Uncontrolled high blood pressure Blood pressure should be monitored during treatment. ### Stomach and Intestinal Problems Although COX-2 selectivity may reduce some gastrointestinal risks compared with traditional NSAIDs, serious **ulcers, bleeding, or gastrointestinal perforation** can still occur. The risk may be higher in older adults and people taking corticosteroids, anticoagulants, antiplatelet medicines, or other NSAIDs. ### Kidney Problems Etoricoxib can affect kidney function, especially in patients with: * Kidney disease * Dehydration * Heart failure * Older age * Treatment with diuretics or medicines affecting kidney function ### Liver Problems Tell your doctor if you have liver disease. Liver function may need monitoring during treatment. ### Pregnancy Etoricoxib should generally be **avoided during pregnancy**, particularly in later pregnancy. Tell your healthcare professional if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding. ### Other Precautions Tell your doctor if you have: * High blood pressure * Heart disease * Previous stroke * Diabetes * High cholesterol * Asthma triggered by NSAIDs * Stomach ulcers or gastrointestinal bleeding * Kidney or liver disease * Fluid retention or swelling --- ## DRUG INTERACTIONS Etoricoxib can interact with several medicines. ### Other NSAIDs Avoid combining etoricoxib with other NSAIDs such as: * Ibuprofen * Naproxen * Diclofenac * Celecoxib * Aspirin used as an analgesic Combining NSAIDs generally increases the risk of adverse effects without providing additional benefit. ### Anticoagulants Etoricoxib may increase bleeding risk when combined with medicines such as **warfarin** and other anticoagulants. Appropriate monitoring may be required. ### ACE Inhibitors and ARBs Medicines such as: * Enalapril * Lisinopril * Telmisartan * Losartan may interact with etoricoxib and potentially increase the risk of kidney problems or reduce blood-pressure control. ### Diuretics Medicines such as furosemide or hydrochlorothiazide may have reduced effectiveness, and the combination can increase kidney-related risks. ### Lithium Etoricoxib may increase **lithium concentrations**, potentially increasing the risk of lithium toxicity. ### Methotrexate Etoricoxib may affect methotrexate elimination and increase exposure in some patients. ### Cyclosporine or Tacrolimus These medicines may increase the risk of kidney toxicity when combined with etoricoxib. ### Oral Contraceptives Etoricoxib may affect the exposure to some estrogen-containing contraceptives, which may be clinically relevant depending on the formulation. Always inform your doctor or pharmacist about all prescription medicines, OTC medicines, vitamins, supplements, and herbal products you use. --- ## STORAGE INFORMATION * Store Etoricoxib 120 mg according to the manufacturer's recommended storage conditions. * Keep tablets in their original packaging. * Protect from excessive heat and moisture. * Keep away from direct sunlight. * Avoid storing the medicine in damp areas such as bathrooms. * Keep out of reach and sight of children. * Do not use after the expiry date. * Do not use tablets if the packaging is damaged or appears tampered with. --- ## PRESCRIPTION STATUS **Prescription Medicine** Etoricoxib 120 mg should be used under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. The 120 mg strength is generally reserved for specific acute indications and should not be used routinely for long-term pain management without medical supervision. --- ## GENUINE MEDICINE ASSURANCE For safe use, purchase **Etoricoxib 120 mg from a licensed pharmacy or authorized medicine supplier**. Before using the product, check: * Product name and strength * Manufacturer information * Batch/lot number * Manufacturing and expiry dates * Packaging and seal integrity * Regulatory/registration information where applicable Do not use medicine from damaged, opened, tampered, or suspicious packaging. If you have concerns about the authenticity of a medicine, consult a licensed pharmacist or the relevant medicine regulatory authority. --- # FAQ – ETORICOXIB 120 MG ### 1. What is Etoricoxib 120 mg used for? Etoricoxib 120 mg is an anti-inflammatory painkiller used for certain **acute painful and inflammatory conditions**, including acute gout and some types of acute musculoskeletal or dental pain, depending on local approval and medical advice. ### 2. Is Etoricoxib 120 mg a painkiller? Yes. Etoricoxib is an **NSAID and COX-2 selective inhibitor** that helps relieve pain and inflammation. ### 3. Is Etoricoxib 120 mg used for arthritis? Etoricoxib can be used for arthritis, but **lower strengths are generally used for long-term conditions** such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. The 120 mg strength is usually reserved for certain acute conditions. ### 4. Can Etoricoxib 120 mg be used for gout? Yes. **120 mg once daily** may be prescribed for acute gouty arthritis, generally for a limited treatment period. ### 5. How quickly does Etoricoxib 120 mg work? Etoricoxib can begin relieving pain relatively quickly. Taking it without food may allow the onset of pain relief to occur somewhat faster. ### 6. Can I take Etoricoxib 120 mg after food? Yes. Etoricoxib can generally be taken **with or without food**. Taking it without food may result in a somewhat faster onset of action. ### 7. Can Etoricoxib 120 mg be taken every day? It depends on the medical condition. **120 mg is generally intended for short-term treatment of certain acute conditions**, rather than routine long-term use. Chronic conditions generally use lower doses. ### 8. Can I take Ibuprofen with Etoricoxib? Generally, you should **not combine etoricoxib with ibuprofen or other NSAIDs** unless specifically instructed by your healthcare professional, because this can increase the risk of adverse effects. ### 9. Can Etoricoxib 120 mg cause high blood pressure? Yes. Etoricoxib can cause **increased blood pressure or fluid retention** in some patients. Blood pressure should be monitored, particularly in people with hypertension. ### 10. Is Etoricoxib safe for the heart? Etoricoxib can increase the risk of **cardiovascular events such as heart attack and stroke**, particularly at higher doses and with prolonged use. People with cardiovascular disease or significant risk factors should discuss its suitability with a doctor. ### 11. Can Etoricoxib affect the kidneys? Yes. Like other NSAIDs, etoricoxib can affect kidney function, particularly in people with kidney disease, dehydration, heart failure, or those taking certain medicines. ### 12. Can Etoricoxib be taken with Paracetamol? Paracetamol and etoricoxib may sometimes be used together, but this should be based on medical advice and the total daily doses of each medicine should be considered. ### 13. Can Etoricoxib be taken with Aspirin? Low-dose aspirin may sometimes be prescribed for cardiovascular protection, but combining it with etoricoxib can increase certain risks, including gastrointestinal complications. Do not start or stop aspirin without medical advice. ### 14. Can Etoricoxib 120 mg be used during pregnancy? Etoricoxib should generally be **avoided during pregnancy**, particularly later in pregnancy. Consult your doctor if you are pregnant or planning pregnancy. ### 15. What are the common side effects of Etoricoxib 120 mg? Common effects can include **indigestion, stomach discomfort, nausea, headache, dizziness, swelling, and increased blood pressure**. ### 16. What should I do if I miss a dose of Etoricoxib? Take the missed dose when remembered unless it is close to the next scheduled dose. **Do not double the next dose.** ### 17. Can Etoricoxib cause stomach ulcers? Yes. Although etoricoxib selectively inhibits COX-2, **stomach or intestinal ulcers and bleeding can still occur**, particularly in high-risk patients. ### 18. Is Etoricoxib 120 mg suitable for long-term pain? The **120 mg dose is generally not intended for routine long-term use**. If long-term treatment is needed, your healthcare professional may consider a lower dose or another treatment based on your condition and risk factors. ### 19. Can I drink alcohol while taking Etoricoxib? Alcohol can increase the risk of gastrointestinal irritation and other adverse effects associated with NSAIDs. It is advisable to discuss alcohol consumption with your healthcare professional. ### 20. Is Etoricoxib 120 mg available without a prescription? Etoricoxib is generally a **prescription medicine**, although dispensing regulations vary by country. Use it only according to the instructions of a qualified healthcare professional. --- ## MEDICAL DISCLAIMER This information about **Etoricoxib 120 mg** is provided for general educational and informational purposes only. It is **not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment**. Etoricoxib can cause important cardiovascular, kidney, gastrointestinal, and blood-pressure-related adverse effects. The **120 mg strength is generally intended for specific acute indications and short-term use**, and it should not be used for longer than recommended. Do not start, stop, or change Etoricoxib 120 mg treatment without consulting a qualified healthcare professional. Seek urgent medical attention for chest pain, difficulty breathing, signs of gastrointestinal bleeding, severe allergic reactions, or other serious symptoms. **Always read the product label/package insert and follow the instructions provided by your doctor or pharmacist.**