Arcoxia

Arcoxia is a type of medicine known as a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It contains the active ingredient etoricoxib, which belongs to a group of NSAIDs called selective COX-2 inhibitors. COX-2 inhibitors reduce redness, swelling, pain and fever. Arcoxia is a prescription-only medicine.

Arcoxia is a type of medicine known as a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It contains the active ingredient etoricoxib, which belongs to a group of NSAIDs called selective COX-2 inhibitors. COX-2 inhibitors reduce redness, swelling, pain and fever. Arcoxia is a prescription-only medicine.

Arcoxia is used to relieve inflammation and pain in the following conditions:

• Rheumatoid arthritis (inflammatory reaction, causing the joints of the wrist, knee, hand or ankle to swell and become red, stiff and sore);
• Arthrosis or osteoarthritis (joint disease caused by chronic wear of cartilage);
• Bechterew’s disease (inflammation of the tendon insertions, especially in the pelvis and spinal column);
• Gout (acute and disabling inflammatory arthritis, usually affecting the big toe, knee or ankle joints).

Arcoxia reduces stiffness, pain, redness and swelling.

Arcoxia is sometimes also prescribed to relieve severe menstrual pain or pain associated with dental surgery.

Arcoxia tablets are not suitable for long-term use and should be used exactly as prescribed. The tablets should be swallowed whole, without chewing, with some liquid. They can be taken with or without food. If you have a sensitive stomach, it is best to take them after meals to avoid stomach distress.

The number of tablets to take, how often and for how long will depend on the condition being treated. The general recommended dose in adults and children aged 16 years and above is:

• 30 to 120 mg once daily.

Dosage should be determined by a doctor. It is important to follow the instructions given by your doctor. Arcoxia should not be used in children under 16 years of age. Read the package leaflet before use.

Like all medicines, Arcoxia may cause side effects. The following are some of the side effects that are known to be associated with this medicine:

• Gastrointestinal symptoms such as heartburn and stomach ache;
• Headache;
• Dizziness;
• Cardiac arrhythmia such as palpitations or irregular heartbeat;
• Tiredness, sleepiness, feeling of weakness;
• Oedema (swelling of wrists or ankles due to fluid retention);
• High blood pressure.

Consult a doctor if these or other side effects are severe. For more information on possible side effects, see the package leaflet.

Arcoxia is not suitable for everyone and should not be used if:

• You are allergic to other NSAIDs, the active ingredient etoricoxib or any other ingredient this medicine;
• You have an active peptic ulcer or bleeding from the gut;
• You have a severe liver or kidney disease;
• You have Crohn’s disease or other inflammatory bowel disease;
• You have a heart problem or history of heart problems;
• You have uncontrolled high blood pressure.

Consult a doctor if you have a health condition that is not listed above or are currently on medication. Arcoxia may interact with certain medicines. For more information, see the package leaflet.

Do not use Arcoxia if you are pregnant, planning to conceive or breastfeeding.

This medicine may cause sleepiness or dizziness. Stay out of traffic if you experience these side effects.

Limit or stop drinking alcohol while taking this medicine as this is likely to trigger or worsen side effects such as stomach problems and dizziness.