Arcoxia

Arcoxia is a brand-name medication containing etoricoxib, a selective cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitor used to relieve pain and inflammation. As an NSAID, it reduces the production of prostaglandins involved in inflammatory responses, providing analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects with the aim of fewer gastrointestinal side effects than nonselective NSAIDs.

Indications and use vary by country, but Arcoxia is commonly prescribed for conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. It is also used for acute pain conditions, including dental pain and postoperative pain, and in some markets for gouty arthritis or dysmenorrhea. The choice of dose and duration depends on the condition being treated, patient tolerance, and cardiovascular and gastrointestinal risk factors.

Arcoxia is available as tablets in several strengths, typically including 60 mg, 90 mg, and 120 mg. It is generally taken once daily, with the specific dose determined by the condition and patient response. The duration of treatment for acute pain is usually short, while chronic inflammatory conditions may require longer therapy under medical supervision.

Contraindications include hypersensitivity to etoricoxib or other NSAIDs, active or recent gastrointestinal ulcers or bleeding, significant hepatic or renal impairment, uncontrolled hypertension, and a history of cardiovascular events in certain high-risk patients. It should be avoided in pregnancy, especially in the later stages, and may be contraindicated during lactation in some jurisdictions. Patients should be screened for NSAID intolerance or asthma and monitored for signs of adverse effects.

Common side effects include gastrointestinal upset, abdominal pain, headache, and dizziness. More serious risks involve GI bleeding, cardiovascular events, liver or kidney injury, and fluid retention. Drug interactions can occur with anticoagulants, other NSAIDs, certain antihypertensives, and drugs affecting liver enzymes.