ETOL-FORT

This medicine contains the active ingredient etodolac which is also called a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), or just 'anti-inflammatory'. NSAIDs are used to ease pain, stiffness and inflammation of conditions that affect muscles, bones and joints. Etodolac is also used to reduce pain and inflammation in rheumatic conditions such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Etodolac, as well as other NSAIDs, eases pain and inflammation by blocking the production of chemicals called ‘prostaglandins’, which are produced at sites of injury or damage.

Is Etodolac suitable for me?

Etodolac is not suitable for everyone. Do not use it

• if you are allergic to etodolac, other NSAIDs or other ingredients of this medicine
• if you have ever had a peptic ulcer or bleeding in your gut
• if you have serious heart failure
• if you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant or breast feeding

In particular, you must tell the doctor if you:

• are pregnant or breastfeeding
• have ever had any disease of the stomach or intestine
• have asthma or any allergic disease 
• have heart, kidney or liver problems
• have excessive fluid loss, salt restriction or heart failure 
• have blood clotting disorder
• have high blood pressure,
• have diabetes
• suffer from fluid retention
• have a condition porphyria 
• have a connective-tissue disorder, such as systemic lupus erythematosus
• suffer from any stomach or bowel disorders (ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease)
• are smoker

Etodolac interacts with other medicines. It is most important that you tell the doctor all the medications and herbal supplements that you are currently taking.

See the package leaflet for a complete list of possible contraindications and warnings.

How should I take Etodolac?

This medicine is available in form of a film-coated tablet.

You should take etodolac exactly as instructed by your doctor or pharmacist. The dose will be prescribed according to your condition and needs.

• The usual dose is one tablet a day.

Do not use more of it, do not use it more often, or do not use it for a longer time than your doctor instructed. Also, this medicine works best if there is a constant amount in the blood. To help keep this amount constant, do not miss any doses and take the medicine at the same time each day. Do not take two doses together if you miss a dose.

Read the information leaflet provided with your medication for additional information. Talk to your doctor if you have any additional questions.

What are Etodolac side effects?

Like all medicines etodolac can cause side effects, including:

Common:

• stomach ulcers
• stomach pain, heartburn
• nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, indigestion, wind
• loss of appetite
• headache, dizziness, vertigo
• skin rash
• raised levels of liver enzymes in the blood

Rare:

• problems with sight
• depression, confusion
• drowsiness, tiredness
• low blood pressure
• fluid retention,
• liver function disorders
• mouth ulcers
• kidney problems

Consult a doctor if the side effects are severe. See the package leaflet for a complete list of side effects.