Arcoxia

Overview

What is Arcoxia? 

Arcoxia is a medication that belongs to a group of Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) called selective COX-2 inhibitors, which are used to relieve pain and inflammation. Its active ingredient is etoricoxib, which specifically targets the cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) enzyme involved in inflammatory processes. 

Arcoxia's selective inhibition of the COX-2 enzyme has the advantage of lessened gastric side-effects e.g. gastritis, ulceration compared to older non-selective NSAIDs.  

Global Name

Generic name:  Etoricoxib
Brand names: Etoxib, Exxiv, Doloxib, Nucoxia 

Usage

What is Arcoxia used for? 

Arcoxia is primarily used to treat: 

• Osteoarthritis 
• Rheumatoid arthritis 
• Gout attacks 
• Ankylosing spondylitis 
• Chronic musculoskeletal pain 

How do you use Arcoxia? 

Availability:

Arcoxia is available in tablet form.

Dosage information: 

• Osteoarthritis: The recommended dose is 30-60 mg once daily. 
• Rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis: The recommended dose is 60-90 mg once daily. 

• Gout attacks: The recommended dose is 120 mg once daily, which should be used only for the acute painful period. 
• Chronic musculoskeletal pain: The recommended dose is 60 mg once daily. 

Suitability: 

• Children: Not suitable for children. 
• Adults: Suitable for adults under the guidance of a healthcare provider. 
• Elderlies: Suitable for elderly patients, but with close monitoring for adverse effects. 
• Pregnancy: Not recommended during pregnancy. 
• Lactation: Not recommended for breastfeeding mothers. 

Allergies:

Not suitable for those with known hypersensitivity to etoricoxib or any components of the formulation.

Any warnings and precautions : 

Arcoxia should be used with caution in patients with a history of stomach ulcers or bleeding, heart disease, or stroke.

Interactions and contraindications: 

Arcoxia may interact with blood thinners (anticoagulants), ACE inhibitors, and aspirin. It is contraindicated in patients with severe heart failure, active gastrointestinal bleeding, or inflammatory bowel disease. 

Side Effects

Common side effects include headache, dizziness, stomach pain, heartburn, and nausea. More serious side effects may include increased blood pressure, heart attack, stroke, and severe allergic reactions. 

Pharmacist Tips

Storage Information: 

• Store Arcoxia at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. 

Handling Instructions: 

• Take Arcoxia exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider, and do not exceed the recommended dose or duration of treatment.

Availability

Where is Arcoxia available in Hong Kong?

Arcoxia is a prescription medication that can be prescribed by healthcare providers. 

FAQs

Can I take Arcoxia for long-term pain management?

Arcoxia should be used at the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration possible to control symptoms. Long-term use should be evaluated and monitored by a healthcare provider.

Is Arcoxia a narcotic?

 No, Arcoxia is not a narcotic. It is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that selectively inhibits the COX-2 enzyme.

Can I take Arcoxia on an empty stomach?

Arcoxia can be taken with or without food, but taking it with food may reduce the risk of stomach upset.

What should I do if I experience side effects from Arcoxia?

If you experience side effects from Arcoxia, stop taking the medication and contact your healthcare provider. For severe or unexpected side effects, seek medical attention immediately.

Can I consume alcohol while taking Arcoxia?

It is generally recommended to avoid alcohol while taking Arcoxia, as it can increase the risk of stomach ulcers and bleeding.

How long does Arcoxia take to work?

The pain-relieving effects of Arcoxia can often be felt within a few hours of taking the medication. However, the onset of action may vary depending on the individual and the condition being treated. It is important to follow the prescribed dosage and schedule, and consult with a healthcare provider if pain relief is not adequate or if symptoms persist.