Arcoxia (etoricoxib) is a prescription medication classified as a selective COX-2 inhibitor, designed to manage pain and inflammation associated with various musculoskeletal and arthritic conditions. It offers a modern therapeutic approach by specifically targeting the cyclooxygenase-2 enzyme, which plays a key role in inflammatory processes, while sparing COX-1, thereby reducing the risk of certain gastrointestinal side effects commonly associated with traditional nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Clinically validated for efficacy and tolerability, Arcoxia is indicated for osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, gout, and primary dysmenorrhea, providing patients and healthcare providers with a potent option for long-term symptomatic control.

Features

• Active ingredient: etoricoxib
• Drug class: selective COX-2 inhibitor
• Available in tablet form: 60 mg, 90 mg, 120 mg
• Prescription-only medication
• Once-daily dosing regimen
• Not associated with antiplatelet effects

Benefits

• Provides effective and sustained relief from inflammatory pain
• Reduces joint stiffness and improves mobility in arthritic conditions
• Lower incidence of gastrointestinal ulcers compared to traditional NSAIDs
• Convenient once-daily dosing supports adherence
• Helps manage acute gout flares and menstrual pain
• Improves quality of life through better pain control and functional capacity

Common use

Arcoxia is commonly prescribed for the management of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. It is also used for acute gouty arthritis and for the relief of pain associated with primary dysmenorrhea. In clinical practice, it is often selected for patients who require long-term anti-inflammatory therapy but may be at risk for gastrointestinal complications with conventional NSAIDs.

Dosage and direction

The recommended dosage of Arcoxia should be individualized based on the condition being treated and the patient’s response:

• Osteoarthritis: 60 mg once daily
• Rheumatoid arthritis: 90 mg once daily
• Ankylosing spondylitis: 90 mg once daily
• Acute gouty arthritis: 120 mg once daily (for up to 8 days)
• Primary dysmenorrhea: 120 mg once daily (for up to 8 days)

Arcoxia should be taken orally, with or without food. The lowest effective dose should be used for the shortest duration consistent with treatment goals. Dosage adjustment is recommended in patients with hepatic impairment.

Precautions

Patients with a history of cardiovascular disease, hypertension, heart failure, or edema should use Arcoxia with caution, as COX-2 inhibitors may increase the risk of thrombotic events. Renal function should be monitored during long-term therapy, especially in elderly patients or those with pre-existing renal impairment. Use with caution in patients with dehydration or hypovolemia. Arcoxia may mask signs of infection such as fever and inflammation.

Contraindications

Arcoxia is contraindicated in patients with:

• Hypersensitivity to etoricoxib or any component of the formulation
• Active peptic ulcer disease or gastrointestinal bleeding
• Severe hepatic dysfunction (Child-Pugh score ≥9)
• Estimated creatinine clearance <30 mL/min
• Inflammatory bowel disease
• Third trimester of pregnancy
• History of asthma, urticaria, or allergic-type reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs

Possible side effect

Common side effects may include:

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Hypertension
• Edema
• Dyspepsia
• Abdominal pain
• Nausea

Less common but serious side effects include:

• Cardiovascular thrombotic events (e.g., myocardial infarction, stroke)
• Gastrointestinal perforation, ulceration, or bleeding
• Severe skin reactions
• Hepatotoxicity
• Renal impairment

Drug interaction

Arcoxia may interact with:

• Warfarin and other anticoagulants (increased risk of bleeding)
• ACE inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor blockers, and diuretics (reduced antihypertensive effect)
• Lithium (increased lithium levels)
• Methotrexate (increased methotrexate toxicity)
• Cyclosporine and tacrolimus (increased nephrotoxicity risk)
• Rifampicin (reduces etoricoxib concentration)

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered, unless it is almost time for the next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose may include lethargy, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, epigastric pain, gastrointestinal bleeding, hypertension, acute renal failure, and respiratory depression. There is no specific antidote; management is supportive and symptomatic. Hemodialysis is not effective due to high protein binding.

Storage

Store Arcoxia tablets at room temperature (15–30°C), in a dry place, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use after the expiration date printed on the packaging.

Disclaimer

This information is intended for educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting or changing any medication regimen. Do not disregard or delay seeking medical advice based on content provided here.

Reviews

Clinical studies and patient reports generally indicate that Arcoxia is effective in reducing pain and improving function in conditions like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Many users appreciate the once-daily dosing and report better gastrointestinal tolerance compared to traditional NSAIDs. However, some note concerns regarding cardiovascular risks, reinforcing the importance of physician supervision and individualized risk assessment.