The active ingredient in Arcoxia is etoricoxib, which is basically an NSAID or a non-steroidal, anti-inflammatory drug. The main action of the drug is to block the action of a chemical substance called cyclo-oxygenase, which is produced in the body when there is an injury or in the case of certain diseases. Cyclo-oxygenase, in turn, produces prostaglandins, which are responsible for swelling and inflammation. Cyclo-oxygenase is mainly of two types, the COX-1 and the COX-2, and is also effective in maintaining a healthy intestinal lining and a healthy stomach.
What are the main diseases that Can be treated with Arcoxia?
The major disease that is treated with Arcoxia is Osteoarthritis, which is a joint disease where the person experiences the gradual breakdown of the cartilages that covers the bone ends. Rheumatoid Arthritis is also treated effectively with this drug. The other diseases that can be treated are Ankylosing Spondylitis and Gout. In all of these diseases, there is tenderness in the joint and chronic pain of the muscles and bones.
What is the normal dosage for Arcoxia?
Arcoxia is generally prescribed only when no other medicines are working well. However, only a minimum dose is recommended and it is advisable not to take the medicine for a long period of time, as the risk of cardiac arrest cannot be ruled out. It is an oral medicine that comes in the form of tablets and should be taken with water. A dose of 60 mg to 120 mg once a day is recommended by most physicians, depending on the severity of the disease and the extent of suffering. The time of taking the tablet must be maintained to get the best result. Double or extra doses must strictly be avoided.
Possible side effects of Arcoxia
The drug does not come without side effects, just as any other drug. It is extremely important to have the drug under proper medical supervision to avoid complications. However, if you are on birth control pills, rifampicin, warfarin or even water pills, it is extremely important that you inform your doctor about this before starting Arcoxia. Similarly, if you get pregnant while on the medication, a consultation with your doctor is needed. The drug should not be continued for a long period of time, as it increases the chance of heart attack. Other common side effects that you might notice with prolonged use of Arcoxia include swelling of the lips and face, arterial fibrillation, heart failure, renal problems and even serious problems of the liver.
