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Etoricoxib Mylan 60 mg Film-coated Tablets

⚠ This medicine appears to have been discontinued

The electronic medicines compendium (emc) no longer publishes a Summary of Product Characteristics for this product, which usually means it is no longer marketed in the UK. The patient leaflet below is kept for reference, but the product may not be available.

If you were prescribed this medicine, other products containing Etoricoxib may still be available. Do not stop your treatment — ask your pharmacist or GP what to use instead.

Active substance: Etoricoxib

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

for

Etoricoxib contains the active substance etoricoxib which is one of a group of medicines called selective cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitors. These belong to a family of medicines called non-steroidal antiinflammatory 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.

2.

What you need to know before you take it

e Etoricoxib

Do not take Etoricoxib: 1

• • •

• • • • • • •

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 (aspirin) or COX-2 inhibitors (see section 4) if as a result of taking acetylsalicylic acid or any other NSAIDs you have experienced wheezing, chest tightness or breathlessness, a runny or blocked nose with pain in the face, swellings inside the nose causing blockages (nose polyps), or an allergic reaction such as an itchy skin rash known as hives (urticaria) or swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue or throat which may cause difficulty in swallowing or breathing if you currently have a stomach ulcer or bleeding in your stomach or intestines if you have serious problems with your liver or kidneys if you are pregnant or think you could be pregnant or are breast-feeding (see 'Pregnancy, breastfeeding 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, persistently over 140/90 mmHg, that is not being controlled by treatment (check with your doctor or nurse if you are not sure whether your blood pressure is adequately controlled) if you have been told by your doctor that you have heart problems such as heart failure (moderate or severe types), angina (chest pain) or if you have had a heart attack, bypass surgery, peripheral arterial disease (poor circulation in legs or feet due to narrow or blocked arteries), or any kind of stroke (including mini-stroke, transient ischaemic attack (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 bleeding or ulcers in your stomach or intestines you are taking acetylsalicylic acid (even at low dose for heart protective purposes) or other NSAIDs 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 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 other problems with your heart, liver or kidneys you are being treated for an infection. Etoricoxib can mask or hide a fever, which is a sign of infection you use medicines to reduce blood clotting (e.g. warfarin) you are a woman trying to become pregnant you are elderly (i.e. over 65 years of age) you have diabetes, high cholesterol or are a smoker. These can increase your risk of heart disease.

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. During treatment In the first month of treatment you are at a higher risk of having serious skin reactions. Stop taking Etoricoxib if you get a skin rash, mouth lesions (damage to the skin or gums) or any other signs of an allergic reaction (see section 4 – Possible side effects). If you get signs of problems with your liver such as a yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes, dark urine, pale stools and generally feeling unwell, stop taking Etoricoxib and talk to your doctor. Children and adolescents Do not give this medicine to children and adolescents under 16 years of age. 2

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 (medicines 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 (aspirin) or other NSAIDs, the risk of stomach ulcers is greater if you take etoricoxib with these medicines

  • etoricoxib can be taken with low-dose aspirin, used for prevention of heart attacks or stroke. If you are currently taking low-dose aspirin to prevent heart attacks or stroke, you should not stop taking aspirin until you talk to your doctor
  • do not take high doses of aspirin or other anti-inflammatory medicines while taking etoricoxib.

Etoricoxib with food Etoricoxib may act quicker when taken without food. This should be considered when fast relief from pain or swelling is needed. Pregnancy, breast-feeding and fertility Etoricoxib must not be taken during pregnancy. If you are pregnant, 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 talk to your doctor. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice before taking this medicine. It is not known if etoricoxib passes into human milk. If you are breast-feeding, or planning to breast-feed, talk to your doctor before taking this medicine. If you are taking Etoricoxib, you must not breast-feed. Etoricoxib is not recommended in women attempting to become pregnant. Driving and using machines Dizziness, vertigo (sensation of spinning while remaining still) and sleepiness have been reported in some patients taking etoricoxib. Do not drive or use any tools or machines if you experience these side effects. Etoricoxib contains lactose and sodium If you have been told by your doctor that you have an intolerance to some sugars, contact your doctor before taking this medicinal product. This medicine contains less than 1 mmol sodium (23 mg) per tablet, that is to say essentially 'sodium-free'.

3.

How to take it

Etoricoxib

Always take this medicine exactly as your doctor has told you. Check with your doctor or pharmacist if you 3

are not sure. Do not take more than the recommended daily dose for your condition. Your doctor will want to discuss your treatment from time to time. It is important that you use the lowest daily 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. Take Etoricoxib by mouth once a day. This medicine can be taken with or without food. Etoricoxib may act quicker when taken without food. Take this medicine without food if you need fast relief from the pain or swelling. The recommended dose is: Osteoarthritis The recommended dose is 30 mg (equivalent to one 30 mg tablet) once a day, increase to a maximum of 60 mg (equivalent to two 30 mg tablets or equivalent to one 60 mg tablet) once a day if needed. Rheumatoid arthritis The recommended dose is 60 mg (equivalent to two tablets of 30 mg) once a day, increased to a maximum of 90 mg once a day if needed. Ankylosing spondylitis The recommended dose is 60 mg (equivalent to two tablets of 30 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 period of time you have pain. Gout The recommended dose is 120 mg (equivalent to four 30 mg tablets, equivalent to two 60 mg tablets or equivalent to one 120 mg tablet) once a day (maximum daily dose) which should only be used for the acute painful period, limited to a maximum of 8 days treatment. Pain following dental surgery The recommended dose is 90 mg (equivalent to three tablets of 30 mg or equivalent to one 90 mg tablet) once daily (maximum daily dose), limited to a maximum of 3 days treatment. Talk to your doctor if you still have pain after taking Etoricoxib. People with liver problems:

  • If you have mild liver disease, you should not take more than 60 mg (equivalent to two 30 mg tablets, equivalent to one 60 mg tablet) 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. If you take more Etoricoxib than you should You should never take more tablets than the doctor recommends. You may have problems with your stomach or intestines, heart or kidneys. If you do take too many Etoricoxib tablets, you should immediately talk to your doctor or go to the nearest hospital emergency department, taking the pack with you. 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 dose. If you have any further questions on the use of this medicine, ask your doctor or pharmacist. 4

4.

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 taking Etoricoxib and immediately talk to your doctor or go to your nearest hospital emergency department (see also section 2, 'What you need to know before you take Etoricoxib'):

  • an allergic reaction such as a rash, hives, itching or swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue or throat which may cause difficulty in breathing or swallowing
  • shortness of breath, severe chest pains, severe headaches with increasing confusion or blurred vision with ankle swelling. These may be signs you have dangerously high blood pressure
  • yellowing of the skin and eyes, dark urine, tiredness, fever, feeling sick (nausea), weakness, drowsiness and stomach pain. These may be signs of serious liver problems
  • severe or continual stomach pain, black tar-like stools or bloodstained stools, being sick (vomiting) which may contain blood, bloated stomach, loss of appetite or feeling sick (nausea). These may be signs of serious problems with your stomach, intestine or pancreas
  • a serious skin condition with severe blisters and bleeding in the lips, eyes, mouth and nose (StevensJohnson syndrome) or severe skin reactions which start as painful red areas then large blisters and ends with peeling of layers of skin. This may be accompanied by fever and chills, aching muscles and generally feeling unwell (toxic epidermal necrolysis)
  • an increase in the number of infections which you may see as fevers, severe chills, sore throat or mouth ulcers. These may indicate you have a low number of white blood cells
  • an abnormally or dangerously fast heart beat
  • sudden collapse, numbness or weakness in the arms or legs, headache, dizziness and confusion, disturbances in vision, difficulty swallowing, slurred, mixed up or loss of speech. These may be signs of a stroke or mini stroke caused by a clot or bleed affecting blood supply to part of the brain
  • heavy or pressing sensation on your chest with chest pain and shortness of breath on exercise (these may be signs you have angina)
  • sudden chest pain which may spread to the neck or arm, with a shortness of breath and clammy feeling. These may be signs of a heart attack or other problems with your heart
  • a reduction in the working of the heart, which may cause tiredness, weakness and/or fluid retention such as swelling of the legs and ankles, difficulty breathing including coughing up frothy or watery phlegm
  • producing little or no urine, cloudy urine or blood in the urine, pain when passing urine or lower back pain. These may be signs of serious problems with your kidney. Other possible side effects include 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 tooth extraction) • swelling of the legs and/or feet due to fluid retention (oedema) • dizziness, headache • fast or irregular heartbeat (palpitations), irregular heart rhythm (arrhythmia), • increased blood pressure (hypertension) • constipation, wind (excessive gas), gastritis (inflammation of the lining of the stomach), heartburn, diarrhoea, indigestion (dyspepsia)/stomach discomfort, feeling sick (nausea), being sick (vomiting), inflammation of the food pipe • changes in blood tests related to your liver • bruising • weakness and tiredness, flu-like illness.

5

Uncommon (may affect up to 1 in 100 people): • chest or throat infection • discomfort or a burning pain when passing water. This may be a sign you have a urinary tract infection • tiredness, shortness of breath, coldness in your hands and feet and pale skin. These may be signs of a low number of red blood cells • unexplained bruising or bleeding more frequently or for longer than normal. These may be signs of a low number of platelets • appetite increases or decreases, weight gain • anxiety, depression, decreases in mental sharpness; seeing, feeling or hearing things that are not there (hallucinations) • changes in taste, inability to sleep, numbness or tingling of the hands or feet, reduced skin sensitivity, sleepiness • blurred vision, eye irritation and redness • ringing in the ears, vertigo (sensation of spinning while remaining still) • changes in the electrical activity of the heart • flushing, inflammation of the blood vessels • cough, nose bleed • changes in your bowel habits, dry mouth, irritable bowel syndrome • muscle cramp or spasm, muscle pain or stiffness • high levels of potassium in your blood, changes in blood or urine tests relating to your kidneys. Rare (may affect up to 1 in 1,000 people): • confusion, restlessness • low blood levels of sodium. Reporting of side effects If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. 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 or search for MHRA Yellow Card in the Google Play or Apple App Store. By reporting side effects you can help provide more information on the safety of this medicine.

5.

How to store it

Etoricoxib

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. Store in the original container in order to protect from moisture. 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.

6.

Contents of the pack and other information

What Etoricoxib contains The active substance is etoricoxib. Each film-coated tablet contains 30, 60, 90 or 120 mg of etoricoxib. The other ingredients are: Core: Anhydrous calcium hydrogen phosphate, microcrystalline cellulose, croscarmellose sodium, colloidal anhydrous silica, magnesium stearate

6

Coating: 30 mg: Hypromellose, lactose monohydrate, titanium dioxide (E171), triacetin, carnauba wax, Brilliant blue FCF (E133), iron oxide black (E172), iron oxide yellow (E172). 60 mg: Hypromellose, lactose monohydrate, titanium dioxide (E171), triacetin, iron oxide yellow (E172), Indigo carmine (E132), carnauba wax. 90 mg: Hypromellose, lactose monohydrate, titanium dioxide (E171), triacetin, carnauba wax. 120 mg: Hypromellose, lactose monohydrate, titanium dioxide (E171), triacetin, Indigo carmine (E132), iron oxide yellow (E172), carnauba wax.

What Etoricoxib looks like and contents of the pack 30 mg Tablets: Blue green, film-coated, round tablet with 'E' on one side and '30' on the other side. 60 mg Tablets: Green, film-coated, round tablet with 'E' on one side and '60' on the other side. 90 mg Tablets: White, film-coated, round tablet with 'E' on one side and '90' on the other side. 120 mg Tablets: Pale green, film-coated, round tablet with 'E' on one side and '120' on the other side. Pack sizes: 30 mg: Blister strips containing 2, 5, 7, 14, 20, 28, 49, 98 tablets; unit dose containing 28 or Calendar blister containing 28 tablets. 60 mg: Blister strips containing 2, 5, 7, 10, 14, 20, 28, 30, 49, 50, 84, 98, 100 tablets; unit dose containing 5, 28, 50, 100 or Calendar blister containing 28 tablets. 90 mg: Blister strips containing 2, 5, 7, 10, 14, 20, 28, 30, 49, 50, 84, 98, 100 tablets; unit dose containing 5, 7, 28, 50, 100 or Calendar blister containing 28 tablets. 120 mg: Blister strips containing 2, 5, 7, 10, 14, 20, 28, 30, 49, 50, 84, 98, 100 tablets; unit dose containing 5, 7, 28, 50, 100 or Calendar blister containing 28 tablets. All strengths: Plastic bottles with screw cap containing 28, 100 or 500 tablets. The 500 tablets pack size is available for hospital use only. Not all pack sizes may be marketed. Marketing Authorisation Holder Mylan, Potters Bar, Hertfordshire, EN6 1TL, United Kingdom Manufacturer Mylan Hungary Kft, Mylan utca 1, Komarom, H-2900 Hungary. Generics [UK] Ltd, Station close, Potters Bar, Hertfordshire, EN6 1TL, United Kingdom. Viatris UK Healthcare Limited, Building 20, Station Close, Potters Bar, EN6 1TL, United Kingdom. 7

McDermott Laboratories Limited trading as Gerard Laboratories, 35/36 Baldoyle Industrial Estate, Grange Road, Dublin 13, Ireland.

This leaflet was last revised in May 2024

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Frequently asked questions about Etoricoxib Mylan 60 mg Film-coated Tablets

How do I take Etoricoxib Mylan 60 mg Film-coated Tablets?

Etoricoxib Mylan 60 mg Film-coated Tablets comes as tablet containing 60mg. 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 Mylan 60 mg Film-coated Tablets?

The active substance in Etoricoxib Mylan 60 mg Film-coated Tablets is etoricoxib.

Are there equivalent medicines to Etoricoxib Mylan 60 mg Film-coated Tablets?

Medicines with the same active substance, strength and form include: Arcoxia 60 mg Film-coated Tablets, Etoricoxib 60 mg film-coated tablets, Etoricoxib 60 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 Mylan 60 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 Mylan 60 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 Mylan 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 Mylan 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 cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitor should be based on an assessment of the individual patient's overall risks (see sections 4.3 and 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, a 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. As with other drugs, caution should be exercised in elderly patients (see section 4.4).

Patients with 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 contraindicated in these patients (see sections 4.3, 4.4 and 5.2).

Patients with 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 contraindicated (see sections 4.3 and 4.4).

Paediatric population

Etoricoxib is contraindicated 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 gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding.

• Patients who, after taking acetylsalicylic acid or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) including COX-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 140/90 mmHg 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 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).

Excipients with known effects

Etoricoxib Mylan contains lactose. Patients with rare hereditary problems of galactose intolerance, lactase deficiency or glucose-galactose malabsorption should not take this medicine.

This medicine contains less than 1 mmol sodium (23 mg) per tablet, that is to say essentially 'sodium-free'.

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 cyclooxygenase 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 4.4 and 5.1).

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 norethisterone 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) 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 were less than half of those observed when the conjugated estrogens were 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 the conjugated estrogens 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 drug 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 9,295 individuals, including 6,757 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), leucopenia, 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, paraesthaesia/hypoaesthesia, 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 ARCOXIA 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 or search for MHRA Yellow Card in the Google Play or Apple App Store.

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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