Intacoxia Etoricoxib 90mg Tablet

Q1: What is Etoricoxib 90mg used for in cancer care?

Etoricoxib is a selective COX-2 inhibitor used as supportive analgesic therapy in oncology patients for bone metastases pain, post-surgical discomfort after cancer procedures, and inflammatory pain components of cancer-related conditions.

Q2: How does Etoricoxib relieve pain?

Etoricoxib selectively inhibits the COX-2 enzyme, reducing prostaglandin synthesis specifically at sites of inflammation and pain. This provides anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects with fewer gastric side effects compared to non-selective NSAIDs.

Q3: How is Etoricoxib 90mg administered?

Take 90mg once daily orally, with or without food. For acute pain, 90mg is the typical dose. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration necessary.

Q4: Can I take Etoricoxib long-term for cancer pain?

Etoricoxib should be used at the lowest effective dose for the shortest required period. Long-term use increases cardiovascular and renal risk. Your doctor will reassess the need for continued treatment regularly.

Q5: What are the most common side effects?

Common side effects include headache, dizziness, high blood pressure, peripheral edema, and gastrointestinal discomfort. Unlike older NSAIDs, Etoricoxib has lower risk of GI ulcers.

Q6: What serious side effects require emergency care?

Seek immediate care for: chest pain or stroke symptoms (cardiovascular events), severe abdominal pain or black stools (GI bleeding), significantly reduced urine output (renal failure), or severe skin reactions.

Q7: Can Etoricoxib be used alongside cancer chemotherapy?

This requires careful evaluation by your oncologist. Some chemotherapy agents affect renal function, which may increase Etoricoxib's renal toxicity risk. Regular renal function monitoring is essential during concurrent use.

Q8: Is Etoricoxib safe for patients with high blood pressure?

Etoricoxib can raise blood pressure. Blood pressure must be monitored during treatment, and antihypertensive medications may need adjustment. It is contraindicated in uncontrolled hypertension.

Q9: Does Etoricoxib interact with warfarin or blood thinners?

Yes. Etoricoxib can potentiate anticoagulant effects of warfarin. INR should be monitored closely when starting or changing the dose. Inform your prescriber of all anticoagulant medications.

Q10: Who should not take Etoricoxib?

Etoricoxib is contraindicated in patients with active peptic ulcers, severe heart failure, severe renal impairment (eGFR <30), severe liver disease, uncontrolled hypertension, or known cardiovascular disease at high risk.

Q11: Can Etoricoxib be taken during cancer treatment?

Yes, it is commonly used as adjunct analgesia during cancer treatment. However, the treating oncologist must review all medications for interactions and ensure renal/hepatic function is adequate before prescribing.

Q12: Is a prescription required for Etoricoxib 90mg?

Yes. Etoricoxib requires a prescription. Its cardiovascular and renal risks mean it should only be used under medical supervision with appropriate monitoring.