LODINE (ETODOLAC)

Uses for Lodine

Pain relief for arthritis, muscle strains, tendonitis, or bursitis is available to those that have trouble getting through their daily tasks. Lodine or generic Etodolac is a non-steroidal anti inflammatory drug (NSAID) that can be taken to reduce painful inflammation, stiffness, and swelling of their joints and muscles. Although there is no cure for arthritis, NSAIDs have been successful at reducing the painful symptoms of rheumatoid and osteoarthritis. The generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand product.

Lodine is listed as a non-selective COX inhibitor, meaning that it has effects on COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes (cyclooxygenase 1 and 2). COX-1 is found in most cells and is better known for maintaining your stomach lining. This is why long-term use of any non-selective NSAIDs are not recommended for long-term treatment as you could develop an ulcer over time. COX-2 is manufactured as a response to signals of an injury or threat in order to cause inflammation as part of the healing process.

Reduce Inflammatory Chemicals to Relieve Your Symptoms

When taken as directed, the main objective of Lodine is to inhibit the action of the COX enzymes that convert arachidonic acid into the inflammatory chemicals called prostaglandins. Even though inflammation is part of your body’s healing process, inflammation causes more inflammation. By inhibiting its production, you can still heal but with less pain and swelling.

Conditions Treated by Lodine

Rheumatoid arthritis is a painful autoimmune disease that causes your own body to attack the cartilage or bone of your joints, commonly it affects the wrists, hands, and feet. For unknown reasons, your immune system becomes over-active or over-sensitive and sends out the warning of a threat to do harm. As an immune response, inflammation is caused to try and confine the threat while other chemicals rush in to help. Osteoarthritis is the most common form arthritis and is caused by continued wear and tear of your hands, feet, back, hips, and knees over the years.

Before Lodine is Prescribed to You

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or are breast feeding as Lodine may be harmful to your unborn or nursing baby. Discuss your medical history with your doctor and list all OTC or Rx drugs you currently take or use, including herbal remedies and dietary or vitamin supplements. This will determine if Lodine is the right drug for you to take.

Lodine Precautions

To reduce the risk of gastric ulcers, your doctor may lower the dosage of Lodine after your arthritis pain and inflammation have receded, just to keep you comfortable. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any of your medications without first talking to your doctor as this may affect how Lodine reacts in your body. Never share your medications with anyone and always keep them out of children’s reach.

Possible Side Effects of Lodine

• Heartburn
• Nausea/vomiting
• Diarrhea/constipation