Before you begin using a medication, be sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions or Allergies you may have, any medications you are taking, whether you are pregnant or breast-feeding, and any other significant facts about your health. These factors may affect how you should use Etodolac.
HEALTH CANADA ADVISORY
June 8, 2021
Health Canada has issued new information concerning the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). To read the full Health Canada Advisory, visit Health Canada's web site at www.hc-sc.gc.ca.
Allergy: Some people who are allergic to other anti-inflammatory medications also experience allergic reactions to etodolac. Before you take etodolac, inform your doctor about any previous adverse reactions you have had to medications, especially other NSAIDs. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience signs of an allergic reaction, such as skin rash, itching, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face and throat.
Anemia: As with other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), etodolac can cause a reduced red blood cell count (anemia) or make existing anemia worse. If you have a history of anemia, your doctor may recommend regular blood tests to determine your hemoglobin levels.
If you experience symptoms of reduced red blood cell count such as shortness of breath, feeling unusually tired or pale skin, contact your doctor as soon as possible.
Bleeding: NSAIDs such as etodolac may cause a reduced number of platelets in the blood, which can make it difficult to stop cuts from bleeding. If you notice any signs of bleeding, such as frequent nosebleeds, unexplained bruising, or black and tarry stools, notify your doctor as soon as possible. Your doctor will order routine blood tests to make sure potential problems are caught early.
Be sure to tell your doctor, dentist, or surgeon that you are taking Etodolac. You may be asked to stop taking Etodolac before surgery or dental procedures.
Drowsiness/reduced alertness: Drowsiness, dizziness, and lightheadedness have been reported by some people taking Etodolac. Do not drive vehicles or undertake other potentially hazardous activities until you have determined that Etodolac does not affect you in this way.
Fluid retention: As with many other NSAIDs, people have reported increased fluid retention while taking Etodolac. People who have heart failure, high blood pressure, Kidney Disease, who are recovering from surgical operations under general anesthesia, or have any other condition that might lead to fluid retention should discuss with their doctor how Etodolac may affect their medical condition, how their medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Etodolac, and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Kidney function: Kidney disease or reduced kidney function may cause Etodolac to build up in the body, causing side effects. If you have kidney problems, heart failure, or you are taking diuretics (e.g., Hydrochlorothiazide, Furosemide, Indapamide) discuss with your doctor how Etodolac may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Etodolac, and whether any special monitoring is needed.
As with other NSAIDs, etodolac may cause kidney damage. If you experience signs of decreased kidney function, such as decreased urine production, difficulty urinating or blood in the urine, contact your doctor as soon as possible.
Liver function: Some people taking NSAIDs such as etodolac have developed liver damage. Stop taking the medication and contact your doctor as soon as possible if you notice signs of liver damage, such as yellow eyes or skin, abdominal pain, itchy skin, pale stools, or dark urine. Your doctor may recommend regular liver function tests if you are taking Etodolac for a long period of time.
Potassium: NSAIDs such as etodolac can increase blood levels of potassium. You doctor will check your blood potassium levels while you are taking Etodolac. People with Diabetes, kidney failure, or who are seniors, or are taking certain medications (e.g., Ramipril, Amiloride) should discuss with their doctor how Etodolac may affect their medical condition, how their medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Etodolac, and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Ulcers: NSAIDs such as etodolac may increase the risk of ulcers in the stomach and intestines. If you have had an ulcer, are at risk of experiencing an ulcer (e.g., are senior or smoke), or have medical conditions that make you prone to irritation of the stomach and intestines (e.g., Diverticulitis, ulcerative colitis, Crohn's Disease), you should talk to your doctor how Etodolac may affect their medical condition, how their medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Etodolac, and whether any special monitoring or treatment is needed.
Stop taking the medication and seek immediate medical attention if you develop symptoms of a bleeding ulcer, such as dark tarry stools, blood in the stools, or vomiting up of blood or material that looks like coffee grounds.
Vision changes: Etodolac and other NSAIDs may cause blurred or reduced vision. Stop taking Etodolac if you experience changes in vision and contact your doctor to have an eye examination arranged.
Pregnancy: The safety of using Etodolac during pregnancy has not been established. Etodolac should not be used during pregnancy unless the benefits outweigh the risks. If you become pregnant while taking Etodolac, contact your doctor immediately.
Breast-feeding: It is not known if etodolac passes into breast milk. If you are a breast-feeding mother and are taking Etodolac, it may affect your baby. Talk to your doctor about whether you should continue breast-feeding.
Children: The safety and effectiveness of using Etodolac have not been established for children.
Seniors: Seniors who take Etodolac should be closely monitored by their doctors. Seniors may be more likely to develop side effects and may require a lower dose due to decreased kidney and liver function.
