Pharmacy Guide

Patient leaflets and SmPCs, drug interaction checker, official and paediatric dosages, pregnancy and breastfeeding guidance, and NHS pharmacy opening hours — all in one place.

Pharmacy Guide

Patient leaflets and SmPCs, drug interaction checker, official and paediatric dosages, pregnancy and breastfeeding guidance, and NHS pharmacy opening hours — all in one place.

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Etoricoxib 90 mg film-coated tablets

Active substance: EtoricoxibRx — prescription only

Equivalent medicines (same active substance, strength and form)

and 2 more with the same active substance, strength and form

Source: electronic medicines compendium (emc)
Official leaflet: Read the PIL on emc

What it is and what it is used for

The name of your medicine is Etoricoxib film-coated tablets (referred to as etoricoxib throughout this leaflet). The active substance etoricoxib which belongs to a group of medicines called selective COX-2 inhibitors. These belong to a family of medicines called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Etoricoxib helps to reduce the pain and swelling (inflammation) in the joints and muscles of people 16 years of age and older with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis and gout. Etoricoxib is also used for the short term treatment of moderate pain after dental surgery in people 16 years of age and older. What is osteoarthritis? Osteoarthritis is a disease of the joints. It results from the gradual breakdown of cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones. This causes swelling (inflammation), pain, tenderness, stiffness and disability. What is rheumatoid arthritis? Rheumatoid arthritis is a long term inflammatory disease of the joints. It causes pain, stiffness, swelling, and increasing loss of movement in the joints it affects. It may also cause inflammation in other areas of the body. What is gout? Gout is a disease of sudden, recurring attacks of very painful inflammation and redness in the joints. It is caused by deposits of mineral crystals in the joint. What is ankylosing spondylitis? Ankylosing spondylitis is an inflammatory disease of the spine and large joints.

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What you need to know before you take it

Do not take etoricoxib: − if you are allergic to etoricoxib or any of the

other ingredients of this medicine (listed in section 6). − if you are allergic to non-steroidal anti-

inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), including acetylsalicylic acid and COX-2 inhibitors (see Possible Side Effects, section 4). − if you have a current stomach ulcer or

bleeding in your stomach or intestines. − if you have serious liver disease. − if you have serious kidney disease. − if you are or could be pregnant or are breast-

feeding (see 'Pregnancy, breast-feeding and fertility'). − if you are under 16 years of age. − if you have inflammatory bowel disease, such

as Crohn's Disease, ulcerative colitis, or colitis. − if you have high blood pressure that has not

been controlled by treatment (check with your doctor or nurse if you are not sure whether your blood pressure is adequately controlled). − if your doctor has diagnosed you with heart

problems including heart failure (moderate or severe types), angina (chest pain). − if you have had a heart attack, bypass surgery,

peripheral arterial disease (poor circulation in legs or feet due to narrow or blocked arteries). − if you have had any kind of stroke (including

mini-stroke, transient ischaemic attack or TIA). Etoricoxib may slightly increase your risk of heart attack and stroke and this is why it should not be used in those who have already had heart problems or stroke. If you think any of these are relevant to you, do not take the tablets until you have consulted your doctor. Warnings and precautions Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking etoricoxib if: − you have a history of stomach bleeding or

ulcers. − you are dehydrated, for example by a

prolonged bout of vomiting or diarrhoea. − you have swelling due to fluid retention. − you have a history of heart failure, or any

other form of heart disease. − you have a history of high blood pressure.

Etoricoxib can increase blood pressure in some people, especially in high doses, and your doctor will want to check your blood pressure from time to time.

− you have any history of liver or kidney

disease. − you are being treated for an infection. Etoricoxib

can mask or hide a fever, which is a sign of infection. − you have diabetes, high cholesterol, or are a

smoker. These can increase your risk of heart disease. − you are a woman trying to become pregnant. − you are over 65 years of age. If you are not sure if any of the above apply to you, talk to your doctor before taking etoricoxib to see if this medicine is suitable for you. Etoricoxib works equally well in older and younger adult patients. If you are over 65 years of age, your doctor will want to appropriately keep a check on you. No dosage adjustment is necessary for patients over 65 years of age. Children and adolescents Do not give this medicine to children and adolescents under 16 years of age. Other medicines and etoricoxib Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking, have recently taken or might take any other medicines. In particular if you are taking any of the following medicines, your doctor may want to monitor you to check that your medicines are working properly, once you start taking Etoricoxib: − medicines that thin your blood (anticoagulants),

such as warfarin − rifampicin (an antibiotic) − methotrexate (a drug used for suppressing

the immune system, and often used in rheumatoid arthritis) − ciclosporin or tacrolimus (drugs used for

suppressing the immune system) − lithium (a medicine used to treat some types

of depression) − medicines used to help control high blood

pressure and heart failure called ACE inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers, examples include enalapril and ramipril, and losartan and valsartan − diuretics (water tablets) − digoxin (a medicine for heart failure and irregular

heart rhythm) − minoxidil (a drug used to treat high blood

pressure) − salbutamol tablets or oral solution (a medicine

for asthma) − birth control pills (the combination may increase

your risk of side effects) − hormone replacement therapy (the combination

may increase your risk of side effects) − acetylsalicylic acid, the risk of stomach ulcers is

greater if you take etoricoxib with acetylsalicylic acid. − acetylsalicylic acid for prevention of heart

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attacks or stroke: Etoricoxib can be taken with low-dose acetylsalicylic acid. If you are currently taking low-dose acetylsalicylic acid to prevent heart attacks or stroke, you should not stop taking acetylsalicylic acid until you talk to your doctor − acetylsalicylic acid and other non-steroidal

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anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): do not take high dose acetylsalicylic acid or other anti-inflammatory medicines while taking etoricoxib. Etoricoxib with food and drink The onset of the effect of etoricoxib may be faster when taken without food. Pregnancy, breast-feeding and fertility If you are pregnant or breast-feeding, think you may be pregnant or are planning to have a baby, ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice before taking this medicine. Pregnancy Etoricoxib must not be taken during pregnancy. If you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant or are planning to have a baby, do not take the tablets. If you become pregnant, stop taking the tablets and consult your doctor. Consult your doctor if you are unsure or need more advice. Breast-feeding It is not known if etoricoxib is excreted in human milk. If you are breast-feeding, or planning to breast-feed, consult your doctor before taking etoricoxib. If you are taking etoricoxib, you must not breast-feed. Fertility Etoricoxib is not recommended in women attempting to become pregnant. Driving and using machines Dizziness and sleepiness have been reported in some patients taking etoricoxib. Do not drive if you experience dizziness or sleepiness. Do not use any tools or machines if you experience dizziness or sleepiness.

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How to take it

Always take this medicine exactly as your doctor has told you. Check with your doctor or pharmacist if you are not sure. Do not take more than the recommended dose for your condition. Your doctor will want to discuss your treatment from time to time. It is important that you use the lowest dose that controls your pain and you should not take etoricoxib for longer than necessary. This is because the risk of heart attacks and strokes might increase after prolonged treatment, especially with high doses. There are different strengths available for this medicinal product and depending on your disease your doctor will prescribe the tablet strength that is appropriate for you. The recommended dose is: Osteoarthritis The recommended dose is 30 mg once a day, increased to a maximum of 60 mg once a day if needed. Rheumatoid arthritis The recommended dose is 60 mg once a day, increased to a maximum of 90 mg once a day if needed.

Ankylosing spondylitis The recommended dose is 60 mg once a day, increased to a maximum of 90 mg once a day if needed. Acute pain conditions Etoricoxib should be used only for the acute painful period. Gout The recommended dose is 120 mg once a day which should only be used for the acute painful period, limited to a maximum of 8 days treatment. Postoperative dental surgery pain The recommended dose is 90 mg once daily, limited to a maximum of 3 days treatment. People with liver problems If you have mild liver disease, you should not take more than 60 mg a day. If you have moderate liver disease, you should not take more than 30 mg a day. Use in children and adolescents Etoricoxib should not be taken by children or adolescents under 16 years of age. Elderly No dose adjustment is necessary for elderly patients. Caution should be exercised in elderly patients. Method of administration Etoricoxib is for oral use. Take the tablets once a day. Etoricoxib can be taken with or without food. If you take more etoricoxib than you should You should never take more tablets than the doctor recommends. If you do take too many etoricoxib tablets, you should seek medical attention immediately. If you forget to take etoricoxib It is important to take etoricoxib as your doctor has prescribed. If you miss a dose, just resume your usual schedule the following day. Do not take a double dose to make up for a forgotten tablet. If you have any further questions on the use of this medicine, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Possible side effects

Like all medicines, this medicine can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. If you develop any of these signs you should stop etoricoxib and talk to your doctor immediately (see What you need to know before you take etoricoxib section 2): − shortness of breath, chest pain, or ankle

swelling appear or if they get worse, − yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice) –

these are signs of liver problems, − severe or continual stomach pain or your

stools become black, − an allergic reaction- which can include skin

problems such as ulcers or blistering, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat which may cause difficulty in breathing. The following side effects can occur during treatment with etoricoxib: Very common (may affect more than 1 in 10 people) − stomach pain. Common (may affect up to 1 in 10 people) − dry socket (inflammation and pain after a

tooth extraction), − swelling of the legs and/or feet due to fluid

retention (oedema), − dizziness, headache, − palpitations (fast or irregular heartbeat),

irregular heart rhythm (arrhythmia), − increased blood pressure, − wheezing or shortness of breath

(bronchospasms), − constipation, wind (excessive gas),

gastritis (inflammation of the lining of the stomach), heartburn, diarrhoea, indigestion (dyspepsia)/stomach discomfort, nausea, being sick (vomiting), inflammation of the oesophagus, mouth ulcers, − changes in blood tests related to your liver, − bruising, − weakness and fatigue, flu-like illness. Uncommon (may affect up to 1 in 100 people) − gastroenteritis (inflammation of the

gastrointestinal tract that involves both the stomach and small intestine/stomach flu), upper respiratory infection, urinary tract infection, − changes in laboratory values (decreased

number of red blood cells, decreased number of white blood cells, platelets decreased), − hypersensitivity (an allergic reaction

including hives which may be serious enough to require immediate medical attention), − appetite increases or decreases, weight

gain, − anxiety, depression, decreases in mental

sharpness; seeing, feeling or hearing things that are not there (hallucinations), − taste alteration, inability to sleep, numbness

or tingling, sleepiness, − blurred vision, eye irritation and redness, − ringing in the ears, vertigo (sensation of

spinning while remaining still), − abnormal heart rhythm (atrial fibrillation),

fast heart rate, heart failure, non-specific ECG changes, feeling of tightness, pressure or heaviness in the chest (angina pectoris), heart attack, − flushing, stroke, mini-stroke (transient

ischaemic attack), severe increase in blood pressure,

− inflammation of the blood vessels, − cough, breathlessness, nose bleed, − stomach or bowel bloating, changes in your

bowel habits, dry mouth, stomach ulcer, inflammation of the stomach lining that can become serious and may lead to bleeding, irritable bowel syndrome, inflammation of the pancreas, − swelling of the face, skin rash or itchy skin,

redness of the skin, − muscle cramp/spasm, muscle pain/stiffness, − high levels of potassium in your blood,

changes in blood or urine tests relating to your kidney, serious kidney problems, increased levels of uric acid and creatine phosphokinase, − chest pain. Rare (may affect up to 1 in 1,000 people) − angioedema (an allergic reaction with

swelling of the face, lips, tongue and/ or throat which may cause difficulty in breathing or swallowing, which may be serious enough to require immediate medical attention)/anaphylactic/anaphylactoid reactions including shock (a serious allergic reaction that requires immediate medical attention), − confusion, restlessness, − liver problems (hepatitis), − low blood levels of sodium, − liver failure, yellowing of the skin and/or eyes

(jaundice), − severe skin reactions (these reactions can

involve ulcers of the mouth, throat, nose and genitals; the rash may progress to widespread blistering and peeling of the skin). Reporting of side effects If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor or pharmacist or nurse. This includes any possible side effects not listed in this leaflet. You can also report side effects directly via the Yellow Card Scheme at: www.mhra.gov.uk/ yellowcard. By reporting side effects you can help provide more information on the safety of this medicine.

How to store it

Keep this medicine out of the sight and reach of children. Do not use this medicine after the expiry date which is stated on the pack after EXP. The expiry date refers to the last day of that month. This medicine does not require any special storage conditions. Do not throw away any medicines via wastewater or household waste. Ask your pharmacist how to throw away medicines you no longer use. These measures will help protect the environment.

Contents of the pack and other information

What Etoricoxib film-coated tablets contain The active substance is etoricoxib. Each film-coated tablet contains 30, 60, 90 or 120 mg of etoricoxib. The other ingredients are: Tablet core: Calcium hydrogen phosphate,

anhydrous; Cellulose microcrystalline; Croscarmellose sodium; Silica colloidal anhydrous; Talc; Magnesium stearate Film coat: Hypromellose;

Hydroxypropylcellulose; Macrogol 6000; Talc; Titanium dioxide E171 The 60 mg tablets also contain brown ferric oxide E172, the 90 mg tablets also contain yellow ferric oxide E172 and 120 mg tablets also contain red ferric oxide E172. What Etoricoxib film-coated tablets look like and contents of the pack Etoricoxib 30 mg film-coated tablets: White to off white round biconvex film-coated tablets, approx. 6 mm in diameter. Etoricoxib 60 mg film-coated tablets: Light brown round biconvex film-coated tablets, approx. 8 mm in diameter. Etoricoxib 90 mg film-coated tablets: Light yellow round biconvex film-coated tablets, approx. 9 mm in diameter. Etoricoxib 120 mg film-coated tablets: Light pink round biconvex film-coated tablets, approx. 10 mm in diameter. Pack sizes: Etoricoxib 30 mg film-coated tablets 7, 20, 28, 50, 98 and 100 film-coated tablets Etoricoxib 60 and 90 mg film-coated tablets 7, 14, 20, 28, 50, 100 film-coated tablets Etoricoxib 120 mg film-coated tablets 5, 7, 14, 20, 28, 50 and 100 film-coated tablets Not all pack sizes may be marketed. Marketing Authorisation Holder and Manufacturer Marketing Authorisation Holder Zentiva Pharma UK Limited, 12 New Fetter Lane, London, EC4A 1JP, United Kingdom Manufacturer Zentiva, k.s., U kabelovny 130, 102 37, Praha 10 - Dolní Mĕcholupy, Czech Republic Or S.C Zentiva S.A., 50, Theodor Pallady Blvd., 3rd district, 032266 Bucharest, Romania

This leaflet was last revised in June 2023. 'Zentiva' is a registerd trademark © 2021 Zentiva

Frequently asked questions about Etoricoxib 90 mg film-coated tablets

How do I take Etoricoxib 90 mg film-coated tablets?

Etoricoxib 90 mg film-coated tablets comes as tablet containing 90mg. Always follow the dose your doctor or pharmacist has given you, and read the leaflet that comes with the medicine.

What is the active substance in Etoricoxib 90 mg film-coated tablets?

The active substance in Etoricoxib 90 mg film-coated tablets is etoricoxib.

Are there equivalent medicines to Etoricoxib 90 mg film-coated tablets?

Medicines with the same active substance, strength and form include: Arcoxia 90 mg Film-coated Tablets, Etoricoxib 90 mg film-coated tablets, Etoricoxib 90 mg film-coated tablets. In total there are 7 equivalent products. They are interchangeable only if your prescriber or pharmacist says so.

Where does this information come from?

This leaflet reproduces the patient information leaflet approved for Etoricoxib 90 mg film-coated tablets, as published on the electronic medicines compendium (emc). The version printed inside your medicine’s packaging is the one that applies to you.

Can I get Etoricoxib 90 mg film-coated tablets without a prescription?

Whether a medicine is available over the counter or on prescription only depends on its licence. Check the leaflet, or ask your pharmacist — they can tell you straight away.

About this leaflet

The text above reproduces the patient information leaflet approved for this medicine, restructured for easier reading.

Medical disclaimer: This page is for information only and does not replace advice from your doctor or pharmacist. Always read the leaflet supplied with your medicine. If you are unwell, call NHS 111; in an emergency, call 999.

Medicines with the same active substance: Etoricoxib (30 medicines)
See every medicine containing this substance, or browse the full A–Z of active substances.
⚕For healthcare professionals — Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC)Full SmPC: dosage, interactions, contraindications, warnings+
Technical information intended for healthcare professionals (doctors and pharmacists). The Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC) is the official document approved by the MHRA/EMA. It does not replace the patient leaflet or a doctor’s advice.

4.1. Therapeutic indications

Etoricoxib is indicated in adults and adolescents 16 years of age and older for the symptomatic relief of osteoarthritis (OA), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), ankylosing spondylitis, and the pain and signs of inflammation associated with acute gouty arthritis.

Etoricoxib is indicated in adults and adolescents 16 years of age and older for the short-term treatment of moderate pain associated with dental surgery.

The decision to prescribe a selective COX-2 inhibitor should be based on an assessment of the individual patient's overall risks (see sections 4.3, 4.4).

4.2. Posology and method of administration

Posology

As the cardiovascular risks of etoricoxib may increase with dose and duration of exposure, the shortest duration possible and the lowest effective daily dose should be used. The patient's need for symptomatic relief and response to therapy should be re-evaluated periodically, especially in patients with osteoarthritis (see sections 4.3, 4.4, 4.8 and 5.1).

Osteoarthritis

The recommended dose is 30 mg once daily. In some patients with insufficient relief from symptoms, an increased dose of 60 mg once daily may increase efficacy. In the absence of an increase in therapeutic benefit, other therapeutic options should be considered.

Rheumatoid arthritis

The recommended dose is 60 mg once daily. In some patients with insufficient relief from symptoms, an increased dose of 90 mg once daily may increase efficacy. Once the patient is clinically stabilised, down-titration to a 60 mg once daily dose may be appropriate. In the absence of an increase in therapeutic benefit, other therapeutic options should be considered.

Ankylosing spondylitis

The recommended dose is 60 mg once daily. In some patients with insufficient relief from symptoms, an increased dose of 90 mg once daily may increase efficacy. Once the patient is clinically stabilised, down-titration to a 60 mg once daily dose may be appropriate. In the absence of an increase in therapeutic benefit, other therapeutic options should be considered.

Acute pain conditions

For acute pain conditions, etoricoxib should be used only for the acute symptomatic period.

Acute gouty arthritis

The recommended dose is 120 mg once daily. In clinical trials for acute gouty arthritis, etoricoxib was given for 8 days.

Postoperative dental surgery pain

The recommended dose is 90 mg once daily, limited to a maximum of 3 days. Some patients may require other postoperative analgesia in addition to etoricoxib during the three day treatment period.

Doses greater than those recommended for each indication have either not demonstrated additional efficacy or have not been studied. Therefore:

The dose for OA should not exceed 60 mg daily.

The dose for RA and ankylosing spondylitis should not exceed 90 mg daily.

The dose for acute gout should not exceed 120 mg daily, limited to a maximum of 8 days treatment.

The dose for postoperative acute dental surgery pain should not exceed 90 mg daily, limited to a maximum of 3 days.

Special populations

Elderly patients

No dosage adjustment is necessary for elderly patients. Caution should be exercised in elderly patients (see section 4.4).

Hepatic impairment

Regardless of indication, in patients with mild hepatic dysfunction (Child-Pugh score 5-6) a dose of 60 mg once daily should not be exceeded. In patients with moderate hepatic dysfunction (Child-Pugh score 7-9), regardless of indication, the dose of 30 mg once daily should not be exceeded.

Clinical experience is limited particularly in patients with moderate hepatic dysfunction and caution is advised. There is no clinical experience in patients with severe hepatic dysfunction (Child-Pugh score ≥10); therefore, its use is contra-indicated in these patients (see sections 4.3, 4.4 and 5.2).

Renal impairment

No dosage adjustment is necessary for patients with creatinine clearance ≥30 ml/min (see section 5.2). The use of etoricoxib in patients with creatinine clearance <30 ml/min is contra-indicated (see sections 4.3 and 4.4).

Paediatric population

Etoricoxib is contra-indicated in children and adolescents under 16 years of age (see section 4.3).

Method of administration

Etoricoxib is administered orally and may be taken with or without food. The onset of the effect of the medicinal product may be faster when etoricoxib is administered without food. This should be considered when rapid symptomatic relief is needed.

4.3. Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to the active substance or to any of the excipients listed in section 6.1.

Active peptic ulceration or active gastro-intestinal (GI) bleeding.

Patients who, after taking acetylsalicylic acid or NSAIDs including COX-2 (cyclooxygenase-2) inhibitors, experience bronchospasm, acute rhinitis, nasal polyps, angioneurotic oedema, urticaria, or allergic-type reactions.

Pregnancy and lactation (see sections 4.6 and 5.3).

Severe hepatic dysfunction (serum albumin <25 g/l or Child-Pugh score ≥10).

Estimated renal creatinine clearance <30 ml/min.

Children and adolescents under 16 years of age.

Inflammatory bowel disease.

Congestive heart failure (NYHA II-IV).

Patients with hypertension whose blood pressure is persistently elevated above 140/90mmHg and has not been adequately controlled.

Established ischaemic heart disease, peripheral arterial disease, and/or cerebrovascular disease.

4.4. Special warnings and precautions for use

Gastrointestinal effects

Upper gastrointestinal complications [perforations, ulcers or bleedings (PUBs)], some of them resulting in fatal outcome, have occurred in patients treated with etoricoxib.

Caution is advised with treatment of patients most at risk of developing a gastrointestinal complication with NSAIDs; the elderly, patients using any other NSAID or acetylsalicylic acid concomitantly or patients with a prior history of gastrointestinal disease, such as ulceration and GI bleeding.

There is a further increase in the risk of gastrointestinal adverse effects (gastrointestinal ulceration or other gastrointestinal complications) when etoricoxib is taken concomitantly with acetylsalicylic acid (even at low doses). A significant difference in GI safety between selective COX-2 inhibitors + acetylsalicylic acid vs. NSAIDs + acetylsalicylic acid has not been demonstrated in long-term clinical trials (see section 5.1).

Cardiovascular effects

Clinical trials suggest that the selective COX-2 inhibitor class of drugs may be associated with a risk of thrombotic events (especially myocardial infarction (MI) and stroke), relative to placebo and some NSAIDs. As the cardiovascular risks of etoricoxib may increase with dose and duration of exposure, the shortest duration possible and the lowest effective daily dose should be used. The patient's need for symptomatic relief and response to therapy should be re-evaluated periodically, especially in patients with osteoarthritis (see sections 4.2, 4.3, 4.8 and 5.1).

Patients with significant risk factors for cardiovascular events (e.g. hypertension, hyperlipidaemia, diabetes mellitus, smoking) should only be treated with etoricoxib after careful consideration (see section 5.1).

COX-2 selective inhibitors are not a substitute for acetylsalicylic acid for prophylaxis of cardiovascular thrombo-embolic diseases because of their lack of antiplatelet effect. Therefore antiplatelet therapies should not be discontinued (see sections above, 4.5 and 5.1).

Renal effects

Renal prostaglandins may play a compensatory role in the maintenance of renal perfusion. Therefore, under conditions of compromised renal perfusion, administration of etoricoxib may cause a reduction in prostaglandin formation and, secondarily, in renal blood flow, and thereby impair renal function. Patients at greatest risk of this response are those with pre-existing significantly impaired renal function, uncompensated heart failure, or cirrhosis. Monitoring of renal function in such patients should be considered.

Fluid retention, oedema and hypertension

As with other medicinal products known to inhibit prostaglandin synthesis, fluid retention, oedema and hypertension have been observed in patients taking etoricoxib. All Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), including etoricoxib, can be associated with new onset or recurrent congestive heart failure. For information regarding a dose related response for etoricoxib see section 5.1. Caution should be exercised in patients with a history of cardiac failure, left ventricular dysfunction, or hypertension and in patients with pre-existing oedema from any other reason. If there is clinical evidence of deterioration in the condition of these patients, appropriate measures including discontinuation of etoricoxib should be taken.

Etoricoxib may be associated with more frequent and severe hypertension than some other NSAIDs and selective COX-2 inhibitors, particularly at high doses. Therefore, hypertension should be controlled before treatment with etoricoxib (see section 4.3) and special attention should be paid to blood pressure monitoring during treatment with etoricoxib. Blood pressure should be monitored within two weeks after initiation of treatment and periodically thereafter. If blood pressure rises significantly, alternative treatment should be considered.

Hepatic effects

Elevations of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and/or aspartate aminotransferase (AST) (approximately three or more times the upper limit of normal) have been reported in approximately 1% of patients in clinical trials treated for up to one year with etoricoxib 30, 60 and 90 mg daily.

Any patients with symptoms and/or signs suggesting liver dysfunction, or in whom an abnormal liver function test has occurred, should be monitored. If signs of hepatic insufficiency occur, or if persistently abnormal liver function tests (three times the upper limit of normal) are detected, etoricoxib should be discontinued.

General

If during treatment, patients deteriorate in any of the organ system functions described above, appropriate measures should be taken and discontinuation of etoricoxib therapy should be considered. Medically appropriate supervision should be maintained when using etoricoxib in the elderly and in patients with renal, hepatic, or cardiac dysfunction.

Caution should be used when initiating treatment with etoricoxib in patients with dehydration. It is advisable to rehydrate patients prior to starting therapy with etoricoxib.

Serious skin reactions, some of them fatal, including exfoliative dermatitis, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, and toxic epidermal necrolysis, have been reported very rarely in association with the use of NSAIDs and some selective COX-2 inhibitors during post-marketing surveillance (see section 4.8). Patients appear to be at highest risk for these reactions early in the course of therapy with the onset of the reaction occurring in the majority of cases within the first month of treatment.

Serious hypersensitivity reactions (such as anaphylaxis and angioedema) have been reported in patients receiving etoricoxib (see section 4.8). Some selective COX-2 inhibitors have been associated with an increased risk of skin reactions in patients with a history of any drug allergy. Etoricoxib should be discontinued at the first appearance of skin rash, mucosal lesions, or any other sign of hypersensitivity.

Etoricoxib may mask fever and other signs of inflammation.

Caution should be exercised when co-administering etoricoxib with warfarin or other oral anticoagulants (see section 4.5).

The use of etoricoxib, as with any medicinal product known to inhibit cyclooxygenase / prostaglandin synthesis, is not recommended in women attempting to conceive (see sections 4.6, 5.1, and 5.3).

4.5. Interaction with other medicinal products and other forms of interaction

Pharmacodynamic interactions

Oral anticoagulants

In subjects stabilised on chronic warfarin therapy, the administration of etoricoxib 120 mg daily was associated with an approximate 13% increase in prothrombin time International Normalised Ratio (INR). Therefore, patients receiving oral anticoagulants should be closely monitored for their prothrombin time INR, particularly in the first few days when therapy with etoricoxib is initiated or the dose of etoricoxib is changed (see section 4.4).

Diuretics, ACE inhibitors and Angiotensin II Antagonists

NSAIDs may reduce the effect of diuretics and other antihypertensive drugs. In some patients with compromised renal function (e.g. dehydrated patients or elderly patients with compromised renal function) the co-administration of an ACE inhibitor or Angiotensin II antagonist and agents that inhibit cyclo-oxygenase may result in further deterioration of renal function, including possible acute renal failure, which is usually reversible. These interactions should be considered in patients taking etoricoxib concomitantly with ACE inhibitors or angiotensin II antagonists. Therefore, the combination should be administered with caution, especially in the elderly. Patients should be adequately hydrated and consideration should be given to monitoring of renal function after initiation of concomitant therapy, and periodically thereafter.

Acetylsalicylic Acid

In a study in healthy subjects, at steady state, etoricoxib 120 mg once daily had no effect on the anti-platelet activity of acetylsalicylic acid (81 mg once daily). Etoricoxib can be used concomitantly with acetylsalicylic acid at doses used for cardiovascular prophylaxis (low-dose acetylsalicylic acid). However, concomitant administration of low-dose acetylsalicylic acid with etoricoxib may result in an increased rate of GI ulceration or other complications compared to use of etoricoxib alone. Concomitant administration of etoricoxib with doses of acetylsalicylic acid above those for cardiovascular prophylaxis or with other NSAIDs is not recommended (see sections 5.1 and 4.4.).

Ciclosporin and tacrolimus

Although this interaction has not been studied with etoricoxib, coadministration of ciclosporin or tacrolimus with any NSAID may increase the nephrotoxic effect of ciclosporin or tacrolimus. Renal function should be monitored when etoricoxib and either of these drugs is used in combination.

Pharmacokinetic interactions

The effect of etoricoxib on the pharmacokinetics of other drugs:

Lithium

NSAIDs decrease lithium renal excretion and therefore increase lithium plasma levels. If necessary, monitor blood lithium closely and adjust the lithium dosage while the combination is being taken and when the NSAID is withdrawn.

Methotrexate

Two studies investigated the effects of etoricoxib 60, 90 or 120 mg administered once daily for seven days in patients receiving once-weekly methotrexate doses of 7.5 to 20 mg for rheumatoid arthritis. Etoricoxib at 60 and 90 mg had no effect on methotrexate plasma concentrations or renal clearance. In one study, etoricoxib 120 mg had no effect, but in the other study, etoricoxib 120 mg increased methotrexate plasma concentrations by 28% and reduced renal clearance of methotrexate by 13%. Adequate monitoring for methotrexate-related toxicity is recommended when etoricoxib and methotrexate are administered concomitantly.

Oral contraceptives

Etoricoxib 60 mg given concomitantly with an oral contraceptive containing 35 micrograms ethinyl estradiol (EE) and 0.5 to 1 mg norethindrone for 21 days increased the steady state AUC0-24hr of EE by 37%. Etoricoxib 120 mg given with the same oral contraceptive concomitantly or separated by 12 hours, increased the steady state AUC0-24hr of EE by 50 to 60%. This increase in EE concentration should be considered when selecting an oral contraceptive for use with etoricoxib. An increase in EE exposure can increase the incidence of adverse events associated with oral contraceptives (e.g., venous thrombo-embolic events in women at risk).

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)

Administration of etoricoxib 120 mg with hormone replacement therapy consisting of conjugated estrogens (0.625 mg PREMARINTM) for 28 days, increased the mean steady state AUC0-24hr of unconjugated estrone (41%), equilin (76%), and 17-β-estradiol (22%). The effect of the recommended chronic doses of etoricoxib (30, 60, and 90 mg) has not been studied. The effects of etoricoxib 120 mg on the exposure (AUC0-24hr) to these estrogenic components of PREMARIN were less than half of those observed when PREMARIN was administered alone and the dose was increased from 0.625 to 1.25 mg. The clinical significance of these increases is unknown, and higher doses of PREMARIN were not studied in combination with etoricoxib. These increases in estrogenic concentration should be taken into consideration when selecting post-menopausal hormone therapy for use with etoricoxib because the increase in oestrogen exposure might increase the risk of adverse events associated with HRT.

Prednisone/prednisolone

In drug-interaction studies, etoricoxib did not have clinically important effects on the pharmacokinetics of prednisone/prednisolone.

Digoxin

Etoricoxib 120 mg administered once daily for 10 days to healthy volunteers did not alter the steady-state plasma AUC0-24hr or renal elimination of digoxin. There was an increase in digoxin Cmax (approximately 33%). This increase is not generally important for most patients. However, patients at high risk of digoxin toxicity should be monitored for this when etoricoxib and digoxin are administered concomitantly.

Effect of etoricoxib on drugs metabolised by sulfotransferases

Etoricoxib is an inhibitor of human sulfotransferase activity, particularly SULT1E1, and has been shown to increase the serum concentrations of ethinyl estradiol. While knowledge about effects of multiple sulfotransferases is presently limited and the clinical consequences for many drugs are still being examined, it may be prudent to exercise care when administering etoricoxib concurrently with other drugs primarily metabolised by human sulfotransferases (e.g., oral salbutamol and minoxidil).

Effect of etoricoxib on drugs metabolised by CYP isoenzymes

Based on in vitro studies, etoricoxib is not expected to inhibit cytochromes P450 (CYP) 1A2, 2C9, 2C19, 2D6, 2E1 or 3A4. In a study in healthy subjects, daily administration of etoricoxib 120 mg did not alter hepatic CYP3A4 activity as assessed by the erythromycin breath test.

Effects of other drugs on the pharmacokinetics of etoricoxib

The main pathway of etoricoxib metabolism is dependent on CYP enzymes. CYP3A4 appears to contribute to the metabolism of etoricoxib in vivo. In vitro studies indicate that CYP2D6, CYP2C9, CYP1A2 and CYP2C19 also can catalyse the main metabolic pathway, but their quantitative roles have not been studied in vivo.

Ketoconazole

Ketoconazole, a potent inhibitor of CYP3A4, dosed at 400 mg once a day for 11 days to healthy volunteers, did not have any clinically important effect on the single-dose pharmacokinetics of 60 mg etoricoxib (43% increase in AUC).

Voriconazole and Miconazole

Co-administration of either oral voriconazole or topical miconazole oral gel, strong CYP3A4 inhibitors, with etoricoxib caused a slight increase in exposure to etoricoxib, but is not considered to be clinically meaningful based on published data.

Rifampicin

Co-administration of etoricoxib with rifampicin, a potent inducer of CYP enzymes, produced a 65% decrease in etoricoxib plasma concentrations. This interaction may result in recurrence of symptoms when etoricoxib is co-administered with rifampicin. While this information may suggest an increase in dose, doses of etoricoxib greater than those listed for each indication have not been studied in combination with rifampicin and are therefore not recommended (see section 4.2).

Antacids

Antacids do not affect the pharmacokinetics of etoricoxib to a clinically relevant extent.

4.6. Fertility, pregnancy and lactation

Pregnancy

No clinical data on exposed pregnancies are available for etoricoxib. Studies in animals have shown reproductive toxicity (see section 5.3). The potential for human risk in pregnancy is unknown. Etoricoxib, as with other medicinal products inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis, may cause uterine inertia and premature closure of the ductus arteriosus during the last trimester. Etoricoxib is contraindicated in pregnancy (see section 4.3). If a woman becomes pregnant during treatment, etoricoxib must be discontinued.

Breast-feeding

It is not known whether etoricoxib is excreted in human milk. Etoricoxib is excreted in the milk of lactating rats. Women who use etoricoxib must not breast-feed (see sections 4.3 and 5.3).

Fertility

The use of etoricoxib, as with any active substance known to inhibit COX-2, is not recommended in women attempting to conceive.

4.7. Effects on ability to drive and use machines

Patients who experience dizziness, vertigo or somnolence while taking etoricoxib should refrain from driving or operating machinery.

4.8. Undesirable effects

Summary of the safety profile

In clinical trials, etoricoxib was evaluated for safety in 9295 individuals, including 6757 patients with OA, RA, chronic low back pain or ankylosing spondylitis (approximately 600 patients with OA or RA were treated for one year or longer).

In clinical studies, the undesirable effects profile was similar in patients with OA or RA treated with etoricoxib for one year or longer.

In a clinical study for acute gouty arthritis, patients were treated with etoricoxib 120 mg once daily for eight days. The adverse experience profile in this study was generally similar to that reported in the combined OA, RA, and chronic low back pain studies.

In a cardiovascular safety outcomes programme of pooled data from three active comparator controlled trials, 17, 412 patients with OA or RA were treated with etoricoxib (60 mg or 90 mg) for a mean duration of approximately 18 months. The safety data and details from this programme are presented in section 5.1.

In clinical studies for acute postoperative dental pain following surgery including 614 patients treated with etoricoxib (90 mg or 120 mg), the adverse experience profile in these studies was generally similar to that reported in the combined OA, RA, and chronic low back pain studies.

Tabulated list of adverse reactions

The following undesirable effects were reported at an incidence greater than placebo in clinical trials in patients with OA, RA, chronic low back pain or ankylosing spondylitis treated with etoricoxib 30 mg, 60 mg or 90 mg up to the recommended dose for up to 12 weeks; in the MEDAL Programme studies for up to 3½ years; in short term acute pain studies for up to 7 days; or in post-marketing experience (see Table 1):

Table 1:

System Organ Class

Adverse Reactions

Frequency Category*

Infections and infestations

alveolar osteitis

Common

gastroenteritis, upper respiratory infection, urinary tract infection

Uncommon

Blood and lymphatic system disorders

anaemia (primarily associated with gastrointestinal bleeding), leukopenia, thrombocytopenia

Uncommon

Immune system disorders

hypersensitivity‡ ß

Uncommon

angioedema/anaphylactic /anaphylactoid reactions including shock‡

Rare

Metabolism and nutrition disorders

oedema/fluid retention

Common

appetite increase or decrease, weight gain

Uncommon

Psychiatric disorders

anxiety, depression, mental acuity decreased, hallucinations‡

Uncommon

confusion‡, restlessness‡

Rare

Nervous system disorders

dizziness, headache

Common

dysgeusia, insomnia, paresthaesia/hypaesthesia, somnolence

Uncommon

Eye disorders

blurred vision, conjunctivitis

Uncommon

Ear and labyrinth disorders

tinnitus, vertigo

Uncommon

Cardiac disorders

palpitations, arrhythmia‡

Common

atrial fibrillation, tachycardia‡, congestive heart failure, non-specific ECG changes, angina pectoris‡, myocardial infarction§

Uncommon

Vascular disorders

hypertension

Common

flushing, cerebrovascular accident§, transient ischaemic attack, hypertensive crisis‡, vasculitis‡

Uncommon

Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders

bronchospasm‡

Common

cough, dyspnoea, epistaxis

Uncommon

Gastrointestinal disorders

abdominal pain

Very common

Constipation, flatulence, gastritis, heartburn/acid reflux, diarrhoea, dyspepsia/epigastric discomfort, nausea, vomiting, oesophagitis, oral ulcer

Common

abdominal distention, bowel movement pattern change, dry mouth, gastroduodenal ulcer, peptic ulcers including gastrointestinal perforation and bleeding, irritable bowel syndrome, pancreatitis‡

Uncommon

Hepatobiliary disorders

ALT increased, AST increased

Common

hepatitis‡

Rare

hepatic failure‡, jaundice‡

Rare†

Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders

ecchymosis

Common

facial oedema, pruritus, rash, erythema‡, urticaria‡

Uncommon

Stevens-Johnson syndrome‡, toxic epidermal necrolysis‡, fixed drug eruption‡

Rare†

Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders

muscular cramp/spasm, musculoskeletal pain/stiffness

Uncommon

Renal and urinary disorders

proteinuria, serum creatinine increased, renal failure/renal insufficiency‡(see section 4.4)

Uncommon

General disorders and administration site conditions

asthenia/fatigue, flu-like disease

Common

chest pain

Uncommon

Investigations

blood urea nitrogen increased, creatine phosphokinase increased, hyperkalaemia, uric acid increased

Uncommon

blood sodium decreased

Rare

*Frequency Category: Defined for each Adverse Experience Term by the incidence reported in the clinical trials data base: Very Common (≥1/10), Common (≥1/100 to <1/10), Uncommon (≥1/1000 to <1/100), Rare (≥1/10,000 to <1/1000), Very Rare (<1/10,000).

‡ This adverse reaction was identified through post-marketing surveillance. Its reported frequency has been estimated based upon the highest frequency observed across clinical trial data pooled by indication and approved dose.

† The frequency category of “Rare” was defined per the Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC) guidance (rev. 2, Sept 2009) on the basis of an estimated upper bound of the 95% confidence interval for 0 events given the number of subjects treated with etoricoxib in the analysis of the Phase III data pooled by dose and indication (n=15,470).

ß Hypersensitivity includes the terms "allergy", "drug allergy", "drug hypersensitivity", "hypersensitivity", "hypersensitivity NOS", "hypersensitivity reaction" and "nonspecific allergy".

§ Based on analyses of long-term placebo and active controlled clinical trials, selective COX-2 inhibitors have been associated with an increased risk of serious thrombotic arterial events, including myocardial infarction and stroke. The absolute risk increase for such events is unlikely to exceed 1% per year based on existing data (uncommon).

The following serious undesirable effects have been reported in association with the use of NSAIDs and cannot be ruled out for etoricoxib: nephrotoxicity including interstitial nephritis and nephrotic syndrome.

Reporting of suspected adverse reactions

Reporting suspected adverse reactions after authorisation of the medicinal product is important. It allows continued monitoring of the benefit/risk balance of the medicinal product. Healthcare professionals are asked to report any suspected adverse reactions via the Yellow Card Scheme at: www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard.

4.9. Overdose

In clinical studies, administration of single doses of etoricoxib up to 500 mg and multiple doses up to 150 mg/day for 21 days did not result in significant toxicity. There have been reports of acute overdosage with etoricoxib, although adverse experiences were not reported in the majority of cases. The most frequently observed adverse experiences were consistent with the safety profile for etoricoxib (e.g. gastrointestinal events, cardiorenal events).

In the event of overdose, it is reasonable to employ the usual supportive measures, e.g., remove unabsorbed material from the GI tract, employ clinical monitoring, and institute supportive therapy, if required.

Etoricoxib is not dialysable by haemodialysis; it is not known whether etoricoxib is dialysable by peritoneal dialysis.

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