Etodolac ER, Etodolac
Etodolac (ee toe DOE lak) is a generic medication prescribed for relieving short-term pain. It’s also prescribed for relieving pain and swelling with certain forms of arthritis. Etodolac belongs to a group of drugs called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Medically reviewed by Victor Nguyen, PharmD, MBA on May 24, 2023
Written by Helen Marshall, BPharm, MRPharmS
This article describes etodolac’s uses, side effects, and more. Below you’ll also find some coupon options to help save on the cost of etodolac.
This article doesn’t provide coupons for all forms of etodolac. To find out more about etodolac extended-release (ER)* oral tablet, see this article.
* ER means the drug is slowly released into your body over a long period of time.
Boxed warnings
Etodolac has boxed warnings about the risks of serious digestive problems and serious heart and blood vessel problems. Boxed warnings are the most serious warnings from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
For details, see the “Interactions and warnings for etodolac” section below.
Uses of etodolac
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approves prescription drugs such as etodolac for certain conditions. Approved uses for etodolac are described below.
Use for certain forms of arthritis
Doctors may prescribe etodolac for treating osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis in adults. Doctors may also prescribe etodolac extended-release (ER)* oral tablet for juvenile arthritis in children ages 6 years and older. Etodolac may be prescribed as a long-term or short-term treatment.
With these forms of arthritis, you have inflammation (swelling and damage), pain, and stiffness in one or more joints in your body. You may have trouble doing your usual activities due to the symptoms in your joints.
Etodolac reduces inflammation and pain in your joints. This can help improve flexibility in your joints and make it easier to do your usual activities.
* ER means the drug is slowly released into your body over a long period of time.
Use for pain
Doctors may prescribe etodolac oral tablet or oral capsule for treating acute (short-term) pain. It’s used for this purpose in adults. It’s usually prescribed as a short-term treatment.
Etodolac is particularly useful for relieving acute pain related to inflammation. The drug reduces both pain and inflammation.
Doctors may prescribe etodolac for relieving pain following injuries, surgeries, or other medical procedures. They may also prescribe it to relieve other types of acute pain, such as back pain, menstrual pain, or migraine headaches.
Side effects of etodolac
Etodolac may cause mild or serious side effects. More common mild side effects of etodolac and its serious side effects are listed below. This article doesn’t include all possible side effects of the drug. Side effects can vary based on your age, overall health, and any other medications you take.
To learn more about etodolac’s side effects, ask your doctor or pharmacist. You can also read the prescribing information* for etodolac.
* To view etodolac’s prescribing information, see the “Article resources” section below.
Mild side effects
More common mild side effects reported with etodolac are listed below. This article doesn’t include all possible mild side effects of the drug.
With many drugs, mild side effects may go away within a few days or a couple of weeks. If the side effects are bothersome, tell your doctor or pharmacist. They may be able to suggest ways to manage them.
Etodolac’s mild side effects include:
- digestive side effects, such as indigestion (upset stomach), nausea, diarrhea, or gas
- abdominal pain
- dizziness
- feeling weak or unwell
- mild allergic reaction*
* For details about this side effect, see the “Interactions and warnings for etodolac” section below.
Serious side effects
Serious side effects of etodolac are listed below. This article doesn’t include all possible serious side effects of the drug.
With many drugs, serious side effects are possible but not common. If you have serious side effects from this drug, call your doctor right away. If you’re having severe symptoms or a medical emergency, call 911 or a local emergency number.
In general, etodolac’s serious side effects include:
- edema
- high blood pressure
- heart failure
- kidney problems
- liver problems
- blood problems, such as low red blood cell levels and problems with blood clotting
- serious skin reactions
- boxed warnings: risk of serious digestive problems and serious cardiovascular problems*
- severe allergic reaction*
* For details about this side effect, see the “Interactions and warnings for etodolac” section below.
Common questions about etodolac
Below you’ll find answers to a few commonly asked questions about etodolac.
How does etodolac compare with other similar drugs, such as ibuprofen or diclofenac?
Etodolac, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), and diclofenac (Cataflam, Voltaren gel) all belong to a group of drugs called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). These drugs reduce inflammation (swelling and damage) and relieve pain. They have similar uses and side effects. But there are some differences between them.
Etodolac and oral forms of diclofenac are only available with a prescription. They’re stronger than ibuprofen, which you can buy over the counter (OTC). Etodolac and oral diclofenac are also more likely to cause side effects than ibuprofen.
Etodolac only comes in oral forms that you swallow. But diclofenac also comes in a gel form that you apply to your skin, and you can buy it over the counter. This form of diclofenac may cause fewer side effects than oral forms of NSAIDs, including etodolac.
You should not take more than one NSAID at the same time. For example, while you’re taking etodolac, you should not take OTC ibuprofen as well. Taking these medications together can raise your risk of serious side effects.
To learn more about how etodolac compares with other similar drugs, talk with your doctor. They can recommend the drug that’s best for you.
Is etodolac a narcotic or a muscle relaxer?
No, etodolac is not a narcotic or muscle relaxer. Instead, it’s a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It relieves mild to moderate pain and reduces inflammation (swelling and damage).
“Narcotic” is a term that’s sometimes used for opioid-type pain relievers, such as oxycodone (Oxycontin) and morphine (MS Contin). These are strong pain relievers that are prescribed for severe pain. But unlike NSAIDs, they don’t reduce inflammation.
Muscle relaxers are sometimes prescribed to relieve pain caused by muscle spasms (tightening that you can’t control), such as some forms of back pain. Although NSAIDs such as etodolac may be prescribed for back pain, they don’t relax muscles.
Your doctor or a pharmacist can tell you more about how etodolac compares to narcotics and muscle relaxers.
Can etodolac cause weight loss?
Possibly. Weight loss wasn’t reported in studies* of etodolac. But weight loss and weight gain have been reported with etodolac since the medication has been on the market. It’s not known for sure whether etodolac caused these weight changes.
Etodolac can cause digestive side effects, such as nausea and indigestion (upset stomach), that could reduce your appetite. If you take etodolac for a long period of time, these side effects could lead to weight loss.
If you’re concerned about weight loss with etodolac, talk with your doctor.
* To view etodolac’s prescribing information, see the “Article resources” section.
How does etodolac work? And how long does it take to start working?
Etodolac reduces inflammation (swelling and damage) and relieves pain. It works by stopping your body from making certain substances called prostaglandins that cause inflammation.
Etodolac starts working to relieve pain about 1–2 hours after you take a dose. But it can take up to 3 weeks of treatment before inflammation is noticeably reduced.
Your doctor can tell you more about what to expect with etodolac treatment.
Dosage of etodolac
The dosage of etodolac your doctor prescribes may vary based on your condition and certain other factors. Talk with your doctor about the dosage you should take.
Taking etodolac
You’ll swallow etodolac, with or without food.
Your doctor will talk with you about how to take etodolac. They’ll explain how much to take and how often. Always follow your doctor’s recommendation.
Overdose of etodolac
You should not take more etodolac than your doctor prescribes. For some drugs, doing so may lead to serious side effects or overdose.
If you think you’ve taken too much etodolac, call your doctor or pharmacist right away. Or you could call 800-222-1222 to speak with someone at America’s Poison Centers. You can also use its online resource. If you have concerning symptoms, call 911 or a local emergency number immediately. You can also go to the closest emergency room.
Interactions and warnings for etodolac
Below, you’ll find information about etodolac’s possible interactions and warnings.
Interactions of etodolac
For some medications, certain things may affect how the drug works. These include getting vaccines, consuming alcohol or certain foods, or taking the drug with other medications. This effect is called a drug interaction.
Before you take etodolac, ask your doctor to check for possible interactions. Be sure to tell them about any of the following you take or use:
- prescription medications
- over-the-counter medications
- vitamins, herbs, or supplements
To learn about drug-condition interactions, see the “Warnings for etodolac” section just below.
Warnings for etodolac
Etodolac should not be taken by certain people and should be taken cautiously by certain other people.
Boxed warnings
Etodolac has boxed warnings about the risk of serious digestive problems and serious heart and blood vessel problems. Boxed warnings are the most serious warnings from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
To learn more about these warnings, read below. You can also talk with your doctor or pharmacist.
Risk of digestive problems. Etodolac may cause serious digestive problems, such as bleeding, ulcers (small sores), or tears in your stomach or intestines. These side effects can be fatal. Serious digestive problems were rarely reported in studies* of etodolac.
Symptoms may include abdominal pain, black or tar-like stools, and vomiting blood or a substance that looks like coffee grounds.
If you have symptoms of serious digestive problems, tell your doctor right away. Your doctor will likely recommend stopping etodolac and switching to a different pain reliever.
Risk of heart and blood vessel problems. Etodolac may cause serious heart and blood vessel problems, such as heart attack or stroke. These side effects can lead to death. Serious heart and blood vessel problems were rarely reported in studies* of etodolac.
Symptoms may include chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, weakness on one side of your body, and trouble speaking.
If you have symptoms of serious heart and blood vessel problems, get emergency medical help right away. Your doctor will likely recommend stopping etodolac and switching to a different pain reliever.
* To view etodolac’s prescribing information, see the “Article resources” section.
What to do if you think you’re having a heart attack or stroke
If you think you’re having a heart attack or stroke:
- Call 911 or your local emergency number
- Do not drive yourself to the hospital. You may lose consciousness (pass out).
- Wait for the paramedics to arrive. They can begin lifesaving treatment.
If you think you’re having a heart attack, ask the emergency dispatcher whether you should chew an aspirin. This may help break up a blood clot blocking blood flow to the heart muscle. If your doctor has prescribed nitroglycerin for heart-related chest pain, then take a nitroglycerin tablet.
If you think you’re having a stroke, try to remember the time when the symptoms began. Tell the emergency dispatcher or paramedics. A clot-busting drug can be given within the first few hours. Try to stay calm and rest until help arrives.
For either a heart attack or stroke, ask someone to stay nearby while you wait for the paramedics. If you lose consciousness (pass out), CPR may be necessary.
Other warnings
Etodolac could cause harm to people with certain health conditions. This effect is called a drug-condition interaction. Other factors can also affect whether etodolac is a safe option for you.
Ask your doctor about specific warnings for etodolac, and be sure to tell your doctor about your:
- current health, including any allergies to medications
- past health conditions or surgeries
Allergic reaction
Etodolac can cause an allergic reaction in some people. Severe allergic reactions are rare but possible.
If you’ve had an allergic reaction to etodolac, any of its ingredients, or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs),* your doctor will likely not prescribe etodolac. They can tell you about medications that are safer options for you.
A mild allergic reaction may cause the following symptoms:
A severe allergic reaction may cause the following symptoms:
- swelling under your skin, usually in your hands, feet, eyelids, or lips
- swelling of your mouth, throat, or tongue, which can cause breathing problems
If you have an allergic reaction to etodolac, call your doctor right away. If you have severe symptoms, call 911 or a local emergency number.
* Etodolac is an NSAID. Examples of other NSAIDs include ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn).
Pregnancy or breastfeeding and etodolac
Information about etodolac, pregnancy, and breastfeeding is described below.
Etodolac and pregnancy
Etodolac should not be taken during the last 3 months of pregnancy. If you’re planning a pregnancy or can become pregnant, talk with your doctor before taking this medication. Your doctor may suggest birth control options to use during treatment with etodolac.
Etodolac and breastfeeding
It’s not known whether etodolac should be taken while breastfeeding. If you’re currently breastfeeding or planning to do so, talk with your doctor before taking this medication.
Etodolac coupon
You may be able to save money on your prescription for etodolac by using our Perks discount coupons. They can be found at the end of this article.
If you have questions about how to pay for etodolac, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.
Note: Optum Perks coupons cannot be used with insurance copays or benefits.
What to ask your doctor
This article describes etodolac’s uses and dosage, ways to save on cost, and more. Let your doctor know if you have questions about etodolac or would like more details about it.
Here’s a list of some possible questions you may want to ask your doctor:
- What dosage of etodolac will I need?
- Can I take etodolac with my other medications?
- Is etodolac addictive?
- Is it safe for me to drive after taking etodolac?
Article resources
- Etodolac- etodolac capsule. (2023). https://nctr-crs.fda.gov/fdalabel/services/spl/set-ids/0fce1aea-5de2-4acb-8a21-2b775c4adb25/spl-doc?hl=etodolac
- Etodolac- etodolac tablet, film coated. (2023). https://nctr-crs.fda.gov/fdalabel/services/spl/set-ids/41bd86b9-2ef3-49a4-874e-fe8ac6891080/spl-doc
- Etodolac- etodolac tablet, film coated, extended release. (2023). https://nctr-crs.fda.gov/fdalabel/services/spl/set-ids/1e4824cc-4d52-4f20-9674-cfcb9ee66574/spl-doc
- Food and Drug Administration. (2023). Orange Book: Approved drug products with therapeutic equivalence evaluations. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cder/ob/index.cfm
Disclaimer: Optum Perks has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.
- Generic
- Tablet Extended Release 24 HR
- 400mg
- 15 Tablets
Dosage settings
Name
Etodolac Extended-Release Tablets
Pronunciation
(ee toe DOE lak)
Warning
This drug may raise the risk of heart and blood vessel problems like heart attack and stroke. These effects can be deadly. The risk may be greater if you have heart disease or risks for heart disease. However, it can also be raised even if you do not have heart disease or risks for heart disease. The risk can happen within the first weeks of using this drug and may be greater with higher doses or long-term use. Do not use this drug right before or after bypass heart surgery. This drug may raise the chance of severe and sometimes deadly stomach or bowel problems like ulcers or bleeding. The risk is greater in older people, and in people who have had stomach or bowel ulcers or bleeding before. These problems may occur without warning signs.
What is this drug used for?
It is used to treat arthritis. It is used to ease pain.
What do I need to tell my doctor BEFORE I take this drug?
If you have an allergy to etodolac or any other part of this drug. If you have an allergy to aspirin or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen. If you are allergic to this drug; any part of this drug; or any other drugs, foods, or substances. Tell your doctor about the allergy and what signs you had. If you have any of these health problems: GI (gastrointestinal) bleeding or kidney problems. If you are having trouble getting pregnant or you are having your fertility checked. If you are pregnant or may be pregnant. Do not take this drug if you are in the third trimester of pregnancy. You may also need to avoid this drug at other times during pregnancy. Talk with your doctor to see when you need to avoid taking this drug during pregnancy. If you are breast-feeding or plan to breast-feed. If you are taking phenylbutazone. If you are taking any other NSAID. If you are taking a salicylate drug like aspirin. If you are taking pemetrexed. This is not a list of all drugs or health problems that interact with this drug. Tell your doctor and pharmacist about all of your drugs (prescription or OTC, natural products, vitamins) and health problems. You must check to make sure that it is safe for you to take this drug with all of your drugs and health problems. Do not start, stop, or change the dose of any drug without checking with your doctor.
What are some things I need to know or do while I take this drug?
Tell all of your health care providers that you take this drug. This includes your doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists. Have your blood work checked if you are on this drug for a long time. Talk with your doctor. This drug may affect certain lab tests. Tell all of your health care providers and lab workers that you take this drug. High blood pressure has happened with drugs like this one. Have your blood pressure checked as you have been told by your doctor. Talk with your doctor before you drink alcohol. If you smoke, talk with your doctor. Do not take more than what your doctor told you to take. Taking more than you are told may raise your chance of very bad side effects. Do not take this drug for longer than you were told by your doctor. If you have asthma, talk with your doctor. You may be more sensitive to this drug. You may bleed more easily. Be careful and avoid injury. Use a soft toothbrush and an electric razor. The chance of heart failure is raised with the use of drugs like this one. In people who already have heart failure, the chance of heart attack, having to go to the hospital for heart failure, and death is raised. Talk with the doctor. The chance of heart attack and heart-related death is raised in people taking drugs like this one after a recent heart attack. People taking drugs like this one after a first heart attack were also more likely to die in the year after the heart attack compared with people not taking drugs like this one. Talk with the doctor. If you are taking aspirin to help prevent a heart attack, talk with your doctor. Liver problems have happened with drugs like this one. Sometimes, this has been deadly. Call your doctor right away if you have signs of liver problems like dark urine, feeling tired, not hungry, upset stomach or stomach pain, light-colored stools, throwing up, or yellow skin or eyes. If you are 65 or older, use this drug with care. You could have more side effects. NSAIDs like this drug may affect egg release (ovulation) in women. This may cause you to not be able to get pregnant. This goes back to normal when this drug is stopped. Talk with your doctor. This drug may cause harm to the unborn baby if you take it while you are pregnant. If you are pregnant or you get pregnant while taking this drug, call your doctor right away.
What are some side effects that I need to call my doctor about right away?
WARNING/CAUTION: Even though it may be rare, some people may have very bad and sometimes deadly side effects when taking a drug. Tell your doctor or get medical help right away if you have any of the following signs or symptoms that may be related to a very bad side effect: Signs of an allergic reaction, like rash; hives; itching; red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever; wheezing; tightness in the chest or throat; trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking; unusual hoarseness; or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat. Signs of bleeding like throwing up or coughing up blood; vomit that looks like coffee grounds; blood in the urine; black, red, or tarry stools; bleeding from the gums; abnormal vaginal bleeding; bruises without a cause or that get bigger; or bleeding you cannot stop. Signs of kidney problems like unable to pass urine, change in how much urine is passed, blood in the urine, or a big weight gain. Signs of high potassium levels like a heartbeat that does not feel normal; feeling confused; feeling weak, lightheaded, or dizzy; feeling like passing out; numbness or tingling; or shortness of breath. Signs of high blood pressure like very bad headache or dizziness, passing out, or change in eyesight. Shortness of breath, a big weight gain, or swelling in the arms or legs. Chest pain or pressure or a fast heartbeat. Weakness on 1 side of the body, trouble speaking or thinking, change in balance, drooping on one side of the face, or blurred eyesight. Feeling very tired or weak. Ringing in ears. Mood changes. Low mood (depression). Very bad belly pain. Very bad back pain. A very bad skin reaction (Stevens-Johnson syndrome/toxic epidermal necrolysis) may happen. It can cause very bad health problems that may not go away, and sometimes death. Get medical help right away if you have signs like red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin (with or without fever); red or irritated eyes; or sores in your mouth, throat, nose, or eyes.
What are some other side effects of this drug?
All drugs may cause side effects. However, many people have no side effects or only have minor side effects. Call your doctor or get medical help if any of these side effects or any other side effects bother you or do not go away: Stomach pain or heartburn. Upset stomach or throwing up. Constipation. Diarrhea. Gas. Dizziness. Headache. Feeling tired or weak. These are not all of the side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, call your doctor. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088. You may also report side effects at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
How is this drug best taken?
Use this drug as ordered by your doctor. Read all information given to you. Follow all instructions closely. Take with or without food. Take with food if it causes an upset stomach. Take with a full glass of water. Swallow whole. Do not chew, break, or crush.
What do I do if I miss a dose?
If you take this drug on a regular basis, take a missed dose as soon as you think about it. If it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your normal time. Do not take 2 doses at the same time or extra doses.
How do I store and/or throw out this drug?
Store at room temperature. Store in a dry place. Do not store in a bathroom. Keep all drugs in a safe place. Keep all drugs out of the reach of children and pets. Throw away unused or expired drugs. Do not flush down a toilet or pour down a drain unless you are told to do so. Check with your pharmacist if you have questions about the best way to throw out drugs. There may be drug take-back programs in your area.
General drug facts
If your symptoms or health problems do not get better or if they become worse, call your doctor. Do not share your drugs with others and do not take anyone else's drugs. This drug comes with an extra patient fact sheet called a Medication Guide. Read it with care. Read it again each time this drug is refilled. If you have any questions about this drug, please talk with the doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider. If you think there has been an overdose, call your poison control center or get medical care right away. Be ready to tell or show what was taken, how much, and when it happened.
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information should not be used to decide whether or not to take this medicine or any other medicine. Only the healthcare provider has the knowledge and training to decide which medicines are right for a specific patient. This information does not endorse any medicine as safe, effective, or approved for treating any patient or health condition. This is only a brief summary of general information about this medicine. It does NOT include all information about the possible uses, directions, warnings, precautions, interactions, adverse effects, or risks that may apply to this medicine. This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from the healthcare provider. You must talk with the healthcare provider for complete information about the risks and benefits of using this medicine.