ARCOXIA 90MG TABLETS

Ref: 0510/211216/1/F

Arcoxia ® 90mg Tablets
(etoricoxib)
Patient Information Leaflet
Read all of this leaflet carefully before you start taking this medicine
because it contains important information for you.
* Keep this leaflet. You may need to read it again.
* If you have any further questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
* This medicine has been prescribed for you only. Do not pass it on to
others. It may harm them, even if their signs of illness are the same as
yours.
* If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. This includes
any possible side effects not listed in this leaflet. See section 4.
Your medicine is called Arcoxia 90mg Tablets and will be referred to as
Arcoxia throughout the leaflet. Other strengths are available.
What is in this leaflet
1 What Arcoxia is and what it is used for
2 What you need to know before you take Arcoxia
3 How to take Arcoxia
4 Possible side effects
5 How to store Arcoxia
6 Contents of the pack and other information

1

What Arcoxia is and what it is used for

What is Arcoxia?
• Arcoxia contains the active substance etoricoxib. Arcoxia is one of a group
of medicines called selective COX-2 inhibitors. These belong to a family of
medicines called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
What is Arcoxia used for?
• Arcoxia 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.
• Arcoxia 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 Arcoxia

Do not take Arcoxia:
• if you are allergic (hypersensitive) 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 aspirin and COX-2 inhibitors (see Possible Side Effects, section
4)
• if you have a current stomach ulcer or bleeding in your stomach or
intestines
• if you have serious liver disease
• if you have serious kidney disease
• if you are or could be pregnant or are breast-feeding (see ‘Pregnancy,
breast feeding, 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 that has not been controlled by treatment
(check with your doctor or nurse if you are not sure whether your blood
pressure is adequately controlled)
• if your doctor has diagnosed heart problems including heart failure
(moderate or severe types), angina (chest pain)
• if you have had a heart attack, bypass surgery, peripheral arterial disease
(poor circulation in legs or feet due to narrow or blocked arteries)
• if you have had any kind of stroke (including mini-stroke, transient
ischaemic attack or 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 Arcoxia if:
• You have a history of stomach bleeding or ulcers.
• 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 heart failure, or any other form of heart disease.
• You have a history of high blood pressure. Arcoxia 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 history of liver or kidney disease.
• You are being treated for an infection. Arcoxia can mask or hide a fever,
which is a sign of infection.
• You have diabetes, high cholesterol, or are a smoker. These can increase
your risk of heart disease.
• You are a woman trying to become pregnant.
• You are over 65 years of age.
If you are not sure if any of the above apply to you, talk to your doctor
before taking Arcoxia to see if this medicine is suitable for you.

Arcoxia works equally well in older and younger adult patients. If you are
over 65 years of age, your doctor will want to appropriately keep a check on
you. No dosage adjustment is necessary for patients over 65 years of age.
Children and adolescents
Do not give this medicine to children and adolescents under 16 years of age.
Other medicines and Arcoxia
Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking, have recently taken or might
take any other medicines, including medicines obtained without a
prescription.
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 Arcoxia:
• 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 (drugs 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)
• aspirin, the risk of stomach ulcers is greater if you take Arcoxia with aspirin.
- aspirin for prevention of heart attacks or stroke:
Arcoxia can be taken with low-dose aspirin. 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
- aspirin and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs):
do not take high dose aspirin or other anti-inflammatory medicines while
taking Arcoxia.
Arcoxia with food and drink
The onset of the effect of Arcoxia may be faster when taken without food.
Pregnancy, breast-feeding, and fertility
Pregnancy
Arcoxia tablets must not be taken during pregnancy. If you are pregnant or
think you could be pregnant, or if you are planning to become pregnant, do
not take the tablets. If you become pregnant, stop taking the tablets and
consult your doctor. Consult your doctor if you are unsure or need more
advice.
Breast-feeding
It is not known if Arcoxia is excreted in human milk. If you are
breast-feeding, or planning to breast-feed, consult your doctor
before taking Arcoxia. If you are using Arcoxia, you must not breast-feed.
Fertility
Arcoxia is not recommended in women attempting to become pregnant.
Driving and using machines
Dizziness and sleepiness have been reported in some patients taking
Arcoxia.
Do not drive if you experience dizziness or sleepiness.
Do not use any tools or machines if you experience dizziness or sleepiness.
Arcoxia contains lactose
If you have been told by your doctor that you are unable to tolerate some
sugars, contact your doctor before taking this medicinal product.

3

How to take Arcoxia

Always take this medicine exactly as your doctor has told you. You should
check with your doctor or pharmacist if you are not sure.
Do not take more than the recommended dose for your condition. Your
doctor will want to discuss your treatment from time to time. It is important
that you use the lowest dose that controls your pain and you should not take
Arcoxia for longer than necessary. This is because the risk of heart attacks
and strokes might increase after prolonged treatment, especially with high
doses.
There are different strengths available for this medicinal product and
depending on your disease your doctor will prescribe the tablet strength that
is appropriate for you.
The recommended dose is:
Osteoarthritis
The recommended dose is 30 mg once a day, increase to a maximum of 60
mg once a day if needed.
Rheumatoid arthritis
The recommended dose is 60 mg once a day, increased to a maximum of
90 mg once a day if needed.
Ankylosing spondylitis
The recommended dose is 60 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 acute painful period.
Gout
The recommended dose is 120 mg once a day which should only be
used for the acute painful period, limited to a maximum of 8 days
treatment.
Postoperative dental surgery pain
The recommended dose is 90 mg once daily, limited to a maximum of
3 days treatment.

Ref: 0510/211216/1/B

Arcoxia ® 90mg Tablets
(etoricoxib)
Patient Information Leaflet (continued)
People with liver problems
• If you have mild liver disease, you should not take more than 60 mg a day.
• If you have moderate liver disease, you should not take more than 30 mg
a day.
Use in children and adolescents
Arcoxia tablets should not be taken by children or adolescents under 16
years of age.
Elderly
No dose adjustment is necessary for elderly patients. As with other
medicines, caution should be exercised in elderly patients.
Method of administration
Arcoxia is for oral use. Take the tablets once a day. Arcoxia can be taken
with or without food.
If you take more Arcoxia than you should
You should never take more tablets than the doctor recommends. If you do
take too many Arcoxia tablets, you should seek medical attention
immediately.
If you forget to take Arcoxia
It is important to take Arcoxia 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 the forgotten tablet.
If you have any further questions on the use of this medicine, ask your
doctor or pharmacist.

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 Arcoxia and talk to
your doctor immediately (see What you need to know
before you take Arcoxia section 2):
• shortness of breath, chest pains, or ankle swelling appear or if they get
worse
• yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice) – these are signs of liver
problems
• severe or continual stomach pain or your stools become black
• an allergic reaction- which can include skin problems such as ulcers or
blistering, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat which may cause
difficulty in breathing
The frequency of possible side effects listed below is defined using the
following convention:
Very common (affects more than 1 user in 10)
Common (affects 1 to 10 users in 100)
Uncommon (affects 1 to 10 users in 1,000)
Rare (affects 1 to 10 users in 10,000)
Very rare (affects less than 1 user in 10,000)
The following side effects can occur during treatment with Arcoxia:
Very Common:
• stomach pain
Common:
• dry socket (inflammation and pain after a tooth extraction)
• swelling of the legs and/or feet due to fluid retention (oedema)
• dizziness, headache
• palpitations (fast or irregular heartbeat), irregular heart rhythm (arrhythmia)
• increased blood pressure
• wheezing or shortness of breath (bronchospasms)
• constipation, wind (excessive gas), gastritis (inflammation of the lining of
the stomach), heartburn, diarrhoea, indigestion (dyspepsia)/stomach
discomfort, nausea, being sick (vomiting), inflammation of the oesophagus,
mouth ulcers
• changes in blood tests related to your liver
• bruising
• weakness and fatigue, flu-like illness
Uncommon:
• gastroenteritis (inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract that involves both
the stomach and small intestine/stomach flu), upper respiratory infection,
urinary tract infection
• changes in laboratory values (decreased number of red blood cells,
decreased number of white blood cells, platelets decreased)
• hypersensitivity (an allergic reaction including hives which may be serious
enough to require immediate medical attention)
• appetite increases or decreases, weight gain
• anxiety, depression, decreases in mental sharpness; seeing, feeling or
hearing things that are not there (hallucinations)
• taste alteration, inability to sleep, numbness or tingling, sleepiness
• blurred vision, eye irritation and redness
• ringing in the ears, vertigo (sensation of spinning while remaining still)
• abnormal heart rhythm (atrial fibrillation), fast heart rate, heart failure,
feeling of tightness, pressure or heaviness in the chest (angina pectoris),
heart attack
• flushing, stroke, mini-stroke (transient ischaemic attack), severe increase in
blood pressure, inflammation of the blood vessels
• cough, breathlessness, nose bleed
• stomach or bowel bloating, changes in your bowel habits, dry mouth,
stomach ulcer, inflammation of the stomach lining that can become serious
and may lead to bleeding, irritable bowel syndrome, inflammation of the
pancreas
• swelling of the face, skin rash or itchy skin, redness of the skin
• muscle cramp/spasm, muscle pain/stiffness
• high levels of potassium in your blood, changes in blood or urine tests
relating to your kidney, serious kidney problems
• chest pain
Rare:
• angioedema (an allergic reaction with swelling of the face, lips, tongue
and/or throat which may cause difficulty in breathing or swallowing, which
may be serious enough to require immediate medical attention)/
anaphylactic/anaphylactoid reactions including shock (a serious allergic
reaction that requires immediate medical attention)
• confusion, restlessness
• liver problems (hepatitis)

• low blood levels of sodium
• liver failure, yellowing of the skin and/or eyes (jaundice)
• severe skin reactions
Reporting of side effects
If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor, pharmacist or nurse. 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.
By reporting side effects, you can help provide more information on the
safety of this medicine.

5

How to store Arcoxia

Keep out of the sight and reach of children.
Do not use Arcoxia after the expiry date which is stated on the pack.
The expiry date refers to the last day of the month.
Blisters: Store in the original package in order to protect from moisture.
Medicines should not be disposed of via wastewater or household waste.
Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medicines no longer required. These
measures will help to protect the environment

6

Contents of the pack and other information

What Arcoxia contains
The active ingredient in Arcoxia Tablets is etoricoxib. Each film coated tablet
contains 90mg of etoricoxib.
The other ingredients are; calcium hydrogen phosphate (anhydrous),
carnauba wax, croscarmellose sodium, hypromellose, lactose monohydrate,
magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, titanium dioxide (E172),
and glycerol triacetate.
What Arcoxia looks like and contents of the pack
Arcoxia Tablets are White, apple shaped, biconvex tablets engraved with
‘202’ on one side and plain on the other side. Each blister strip contains 5
tablets, in boxes of 20 or 30 Tablets.
Manufacturer and Licence Holder
The tablets are manufactured by Merck Sharp & Dohme B.V, Waarderweg
39, Haarlem, The Netherlands and are procured from within the EU and
repackaged by the Product Licence Holder: Lexon (UK) Limited, Unit 18,
Oxleasow Road, East Moons Moat, Redditch, Worcestershire, B98 0RE.

POM

PL 15184/0510

Arcoxia is a registered trademark of Merck & Co.Inc.
Leaflet revision date: 21/12/16

Blind or partially sighted?
Is this leaflet hard to see or read?
Phone Lexon (UK) Limited, Tel: 01527 505414
for help.

Ref: 0510/211216/1/F

Etoricoxib 90mg Tablets
Patient Information Leaflet
Read all of this leaflet carefully before you start taking this medicine
because it contains important information for you.
* Keep this leaflet. You may need to read it again.
* If you have any further questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
* This medicine has been prescribed for you only. Do not pass it on to
others. It may harm them, even if their signs of illness are the same as
yours.
* If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. This includes
any possible side effects not listed in this leaflet. See section 4.
Your medicine is called Etoricoxib 90mg Tablets and will be referred to as
Etoricoxib throughout the leaflet. Other strengths are available.
What is in this leaflet
1 What Etoricoxib is and what it is used for
2 What you need to know before you take Etoricoxib
3 How to take Etoricoxib
4 Possible side effects
5 How to store Etoricoxib
6 Contents of the pack and other information

1

What Etoricoxib is and what it is used for

What is Etoricoxib?
• Etoricoxib contains the active substance etoricoxib. Etoricoxib is one of a
group of medicines called selective COX-2 inhibitors. These belong to a
family of medicines called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
What is Etoricoxib used for?
• 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.

Etoricoxib works equally well in older and younger adult patients. If you are
over 65 years of age, your doctor will want to appropriately keep a check on
you. No dosage adjustment is necessary for patients over 65 years of age.
Children and adolescents
Do not give this medicine to children and adolescents under 16 years of age.
Other medicines and Etoricoxib
Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking, have recently taken or might
take any other medicines, including medicines obtained without a
prescription.
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 (drugs 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)
• aspirin, the risk of stomach ulcers is greater if you take Etoricoxib with
aspirin.
- aspirin for prevention of heart attacks or stroke:
Etoricoxib can be taken with low-dose aspirin. 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
- aspirin and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs):
do not take high dose aspirin or other anti-inflammatory medicines while
taking Etoricoxib.

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.

Etoricoxib with food and drink
The onset of the effect of Etoricoxib may be faster when taken without food.

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.

Pregnancy
Etoricoxib tablets must not be taken during pregnancy. If you are pregnant or
think you could be pregnant, or if you are planning to become pregnant, do
not take the tablets. If you become pregnant, stop taking the tablets and
consult your doctor. Consult your doctor if you are unsure or need more
advice.

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.

Pregnancy, breast-feeding, and fertility

Breast-feeding
It is not known if Etoricoxib is excreted in human milk. If you are
breast-feeding, or planning to breast-feed, consult your doctor
before taking Etoricoxib. If you are using Etoricoxib, you must not
breast-feed.
Fertility
Etoricoxib is not recommended in women attempting to become pregnant.

2

What you need to know before you take Etoricoxib

Do not take Etoricoxib:
• if you are allergic (hypersensitive) 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 aspirin and COX-2 inhibitors (see Possible Side Effects, section
4)
• if you have a current stomach ulcer or bleeding in your stomach or
intestines
• if you have serious liver disease
• if you have serious kidney disease
• if you are or could be pregnant or are breast-feeding (see ‘Pregnancy,
breast feeding, 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 that has not been controlled by treatment
(check with your doctor or nurse if you are not sure whether your blood
pressure is adequately controlled)
• if your doctor has diagnosed heart problems including heart failure
(moderate or severe types), angina (chest pain)
• if you have had a heart attack, bypass surgery, peripheral arterial disease
(poor circulation in legs or feet due to narrow or blocked arteries)
• if you have had any kind of stroke (including mini-stroke, transient
ischaemic attack or 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.

Driving and using machines
Dizziness and sleepiness have been reported in some patients taking
Etoricoxib.
Do not drive if you experience dizziness or sleepiness.
Do not use any tools or machines if you experience dizziness or sleepiness.
Etoricoxib contains lactose
If you have been told by your doctor that you are unable to tolerate some
sugars, contact your doctor before taking this medicinal product.

3

How to take Etoricoxib

Always take this medicine exactly as your doctor has told you. You should
check with your doctor or pharmacist if you are not sure.
Do not take more than the recommended dose for your condition. Your
doctor will want to discuss your treatment from time to time. It is important
that you use the lowest 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.
There are different strengths available for this medicinal product and
depending on your disease your doctor will prescribe the tablet strength that
is appropriate for you.
The recommended dose is:

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 stomach bleeding or ulcers.
• 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 heart failure, or any other form of heart disease.
• 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 history of liver or kidney disease.
• You are being treated for an infection. Etoricoxib can mask or hide a fever,
which is a sign of infection.
• You have diabetes, high cholesterol, or are a smoker. These can increase
your risk of heart disease.
• You are a woman trying to become pregnant.
• You are over 65 years of age.
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.

Osteoarthritis
The recommended dose is 30 mg once a day, increase to a maximum of 60
mg once a day if needed.
Rheumatoid arthritis
The recommended dose is 60 mg once a day, increased to a maximum of
90 mg once a day if needed.
Ankylosing spondylitis
The recommended dose is 60 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 acute painful period.
Gout
The recommended dose is 120 mg once a day which should only be
used for the acute painful period, limited to a maximum of 8 days
treatment.
Postoperative dental surgery pain
The recommended dose is 90 mg once daily, limited to a maximum of
3 days treatment.

Ref: 0510/211216/1/B

Etoricoxib 90mg Tablets
Patient Information Leaflet (continued)
People with liver problems
• If you have mild liver disease, you should not take more than 60 mg a day.
• If you have moderate liver disease, you should not take more than 30 mg
a day.
Use in children and adolescents
Etoricoxib tablets should not be taken by children or adolescents under 16
years of age.
Elderly
No dose adjustment is necessary for elderly patients. As with other
medicines, caution should be exercised in elderly patients.
Method of administration
Etoricoxib is for oral use. Take the tablets once a day. Etoricoxib can be
taken with or without food.
If you take more Etoricoxib than you should
You should never take more tablets than the doctor recommends. If you do
take too many Etoricoxib tablets, you should seek medical attention
immediately.
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 the forgotten tablet.
If you have any further questions on the use of this medicine, ask your
doctor or pharmacist.

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 Etoricoxib and talk
to your doctor immediately (see What you need to know
before you take Etoricoxib section 2):
• shortness of breath, chest pains, or ankle swelling appear or if they get
worse
• yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice) – these are signs of liver
problems
• severe or continual stomach pain or your stools become black
• an allergic reaction- which can include skin problems such as ulcers or
blistering, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat which may cause
difficulty in breathing
The frequency of possible side effects listed below is defined using the
following convention:
Very common (affects more than 1 user in 10)
Common (affects 1 to 10 users in 100)
Uncommon (affects 1 to 10 users in 1,000)
Rare (affects 1 to 10 users in 10,000)
Very rare (affects less than 1 user in 10,000)
The following side effects can occur during treatment with Etoricoxib:
Very Common:
• stomach pain
Common:
• dry socket (inflammation and pain after a tooth extraction)
• swelling of the legs and/or feet due to fluid retention (oedema)
• dizziness, headache
• palpitations (fast or irregular heartbeat), irregular heart rhythm (arrhythmia)
• increased blood pressure
• wheezing or shortness of breath (bronchospasms)
• constipation, wind (excessive gas), gastritis (inflammation of the lining of
the stomach), heartburn, diarrhoea, indigestion (dyspepsia)/stomach
discomfort, nausea, being sick (vomiting), inflammation of the oesophagus,
mouth ulcers
• changes in blood tests related to your liver
• bruising
• weakness and fatigue, flu-like illness
Uncommon:
• gastroenteritis (inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract that involves both
the stomach and small intestine/stomach flu), upper respiratory infection,
urinary tract infection
• changes in laboratory values (decreased number of red blood cells,
decreased number of white blood cells, platelets decreased)
• hypersensitivity (an allergic reaction including hives which may be serious
enough to require immediate medical attention)
• appetite increases or decreases, weight gain
• anxiety, depression, decreases in mental sharpness; seeing, feeling or
hearing things that are not there (hallucinations)
• taste alteration, inability to sleep, numbness or tingling, sleepiness
• blurred vision, eye irritation and redness
• ringing in the ears, vertigo (sensation of spinning while remaining still)
• abnormal heart rhythm (atrial fibrillation), fast heart rate, heart failure,
feeling of tightness, pressure or heaviness in the chest (angina pectoris),
heart attack
• flushing, stroke, mini-stroke (transient ischaemic attack), severe increase in
blood pressure, inflammation of the blood vessels
• cough, breathlessness, nose bleed
• stomach or bowel bloating, changes in your bowel habits, dry mouth,
stomach ulcer, inflammation of the stomach lining that can become serious
and may lead to bleeding, irritable bowel syndrome, inflammation of the
pancreas
• swelling of the face, skin rash or itchy skin, redness of the skin
• muscle cramp/spasm, muscle pain/stiffness
• high levels of potassium in your blood, changes in blood or urine tests
relating to your kidney, serious kidney problems
• chest pain
Rare:
• angioedema (an allergic reaction with swelling of the face, lips, tongue
and/or throat which may cause difficulty in breathing or swallowing, which
may be serious enough to require immediate medical attention)/
anaphylactic/anaphylactoid reactions including shock (a serious allergic
reaction that requires immediate medical attention)
• confusion, restlessness
• liver problems (hepatitis)

• low blood levels of sodium
• liver failure, yellowing of the skin and/or eyes (jaundice)
• severe skin reactions
Reporting of side effects
If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor, pharmacist or nurse. 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.
By reporting side effects, you can help provide more information on the
safety of this medicine.

5

How to store Etoricoxib

Keep out of the sight and reach of children.
Do not use Arcoxia after the expiry date which is stated on the pack.
The expiry date refers to the last day of the month.
Blisters: Store in the original package in order to protect from moisture.
Medicines should not be disposed of via wastewater or household waste.
Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medicines no longer required. These
measures will help to protect the environment.

6

Contents of the pack and other information

What Etoricoxib contains
The active ingredient in Etoricoxib Tablets is etoricoxib. Each film coated
tablet contains 90mg of etoricoxib.
The other ingredients are; calcium hydrogen phosphate (anhydrous),
carnauba wax, croscarmellose sodium, hypromellose, lactose monohydrate,
magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, titanium dioxide (E172),
and glycerol triacetate.
What Etoricoxib looks like and contents of the pack
Etoricoxib Tablets are White, apple shaped, biconvex tablets engraved with
‘202’ on one side and plain on the other side. Each blister strip contains 5
tablets, in boxes of 20 or 30 Tablets.
Manufacturer and Licence Holder
The tablets are manufactured by Merck Sharp & Dohme B.V, Waarderweg
39, Haarlem, The Netherlands and are procured from within the EU and
repackaged by the Product Licence Holder: Lexon (UK) Limited, Unit 18,
Oxleasow Road, East Moons Moat, Redditch, Worcestershire, B98 0RE.

POM

PL 15184/0510

Leaflet revision date: 21/12/16

Blind or partially sighted?
Is this leaflet hard to see or read?
Phone Lexon (UK) Limited, Tel: 01527 505414
for help.

Ref: 0510/211216/2/F

Arcoxia 90mg Tablets
®

(etoricoxib)
Patient Information Leaflet
Read all of this leaflet carefully before you start taking this medicine
because it contains important information for you.
* Keep this leaflet. You may need to read it again.
* If you have any further questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
* This medicine has been prescribed for you only. Do not pass it on to
others. It may harm them, even if their signs of illness are the same as
yours.
* If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. This includes
any possible side effects not listed in this leaflet. See section 4.
Your medicine is called Arcoxia 90mg Tablets and will be referred to as
Arcoxia throughout the leaflet. Other strengths are available.
What is in this leaflet
1 What Arcoxia is and what it is used for
2 What you need to know before you take Arcoxia
3 How to take Arcoxia
4 Possible side effects
5 How to store Arcoxia
6 Contents of the pack and other information

1

What Arcoxia is and what it is used for

What is Arcoxia?
• Arcoxia contains the active substance etoricoxib. Arcoxia is one of a group
of medicines called selective COX-2 inhibitors. These belong to a family of
medicines called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
What is Arcoxia used for?
• Arcoxia 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.
• Arcoxia 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 Arcoxia

Do not take Arcoxia:
• if you are allergic (hypersensitive) 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 aspirin and COX-2 inhibitors (see Possible Side Effects, section
4)
• if you have a current stomach ulcer or bleeding in your stomach or
intestines
• if you have serious liver disease
• if you have serious kidney disease
• if you are or could be pregnant or are breast-feeding (see ‘Pregnancy,
breast feeding, 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 that has not been controlled by treatment
(check with your doctor or nurse if you are not sure whether your blood
pressure is adequately controlled)
• if your doctor has diagnosed heart problems including heart failure
(moderate or severe types), angina (chest pain)
• if you have had a heart attack, bypass surgery, peripheral arterial disease
(poor circulation in legs or feet due to narrow or blocked arteries)
• if you have had any kind of stroke (including mini-stroke, transient
ischaemic attack or 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 Arcoxia if:
• You have a history of stomach bleeding or ulcers.
• 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 heart failure, or any other form of heart disease.
• You have a history of high blood pressure. Arcoxia 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 history of liver or kidney disease.
• You are being treated for an infection. Arcoxia can mask or hide a fever,
which is a sign of infection.
• You have diabetes, high cholesterol, or are a smoker. These can increase
your risk of heart disease.
• You are a woman trying to become pregnant.
• You are over 65 years of age.
If you are not sure if any of the above apply to you, talk to your doctor
before taking Arcoxia to see if this medicine is suitable for you.

Arcoxia works equally well in older and younger adult patients. If you are
over 65 years of age, your doctor will want to appropriately keep a check on
you. No dosage adjustment is necessary for patients over 65 years of age.
Children and adolescents
Do not give this medicine to children and adolescents under 16 years of age.
Other medicines and Arcoxia
Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking, have recently taken or might
take any other medicines, including medicines obtained without a
prescription.
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 Arcoxia:
• 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 (drugs 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)
• aspirin, the risk of stomach ulcers is greater if you take Arcoxia with aspirin.
- aspirin for prevention of heart attacks or stroke:
Arcoxia can be taken with low-dose aspirin. 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
- aspirin and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs):
do not take high dose aspirin or other anti-inflammatory medicines while
taking Arcoxia.
Arcoxia with food and drink
The onset of the effect of Arcoxia may be faster when taken without food.
Pregnancy, breast-feeding, and fertility
Pregnancy
Arcoxia tablets must not be taken during pregnancy. If you are pregnant or
think you could be pregnant, or if you are planning to become pregnant, do
not take the tablets. If you become pregnant, stop taking the tablets and
consult your doctor. Consult your doctor if you are unsure or need more
advice.
Breast-feeding
It is not known if Arcoxia is excreted in human milk. If you are
breast-feeding, or planning to breast-feed, consult your doctor
before taking Arcoxia. If you are using Arcoxia, you must not breast-feed.
Fertility
Arcoxia is not recommended in women attempting to become pregnant.
Driving and using machines
Dizziness and sleepiness have been reported in some patients taking
Arcoxia.
Do not drive if you experience dizziness or sleepiness.
Do not use any tools or machines if you experience dizziness or sleepiness.
Arcoxia contains lactose
If you have been told by your doctor that you are unable to tolerate some
sugars, contact your doctor before taking this medicinal product.

3

How to take Arcoxia

Always take this medicine exactly as your doctor has told you. You should
check with your doctor or pharmacist if you are not sure.
Do not take more than the recommended dose for your condition. Your
doctor will want to discuss your treatment from time to time. It is important
that you use the lowest dose that controls your pain and you should not take
Arcoxia for longer than necessary. This is because the risk of heart attacks
and strokes might increase after prolonged treatment, especially with high
doses.
There are different strengths available for this medicinal product and
depending on your disease your doctor will prescribe the tablet strength that
is appropriate for you.
The recommended dose is:
Osteoarthritis
The recommended dose is 30 mg once a day, increase to a maximum of 60
mg once a day if needed.
Rheumatoid arthritis
The recommended dose is 60 mg once a day, increased to a maximum of
90 mg once a day if needed.
Ankylosing spondylitis
The recommended dose is 60 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 acute painful period.
Gout
The recommended dose is 120 mg once a day which should only be
used for the acute painful period, limited to a maximum of 8 days
treatment.
Postoperative dental surgery pain
The recommended dose is 90 mg once daily, limited to a maximum of
3 days treatment.

Ref: 0510/211216/2/B

®

Arcoxia 90mg Tablets
(etoricoxib)
Patient Information Leaflet (continued)
People with liver problems
• If you have mild liver disease, you should not take more than 60 mg a day.
• If you have moderate liver disease, you should not take more than 30 mg
a day.
Use in children and adolescents
Arcoxia tablets should not be taken by children or adolescents under 16
years of age.
Elderly
No dose adjustment is necessary for elderly patients. As with other
medicines, caution should be exercised in elderly patients.
Method of administration
Arcoxia is for oral use. Take the tablets once a day. Arcoxia can be taken
with or without food.
If you take more Arcoxia than you should
You should never take more tablets than the doctor recommends. If you do
take too many Arcoxia tablets, you should seek medical attention
immediately.
If you forget to take Arcoxia
It is important to take Arcoxia 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 the forgotten tablet.
If you have any further questions on the use of this medicine, ask your
doctor or pharmacist.

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 Arcoxia and talk to
your doctor immediately (see What you need to know
before you take Arcoxia section 2):
• shortness of breath, chest pains, or ankle swelling appear or if they get
worse
• yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice) – these are signs of liver
problems
• severe or continual stomach pain or your stools become black
• an allergic reaction- which can include skin problems such as ulcers or
blistering, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat which may cause
difficulty in breathing
The frequency of possible side effects listed below is defined using the
following convention:
Very common (affects more than 1 user in 10)
Common (affects 1 to 10 users in 100)
Uncommon (affects 1 to 10 users in 1,000)
Rare (affects 1 to 10 users in 10,000)
Very rare (affects less than 1 user in 10,000)
The following side effects can occur during treatment with Arcoxia:
Very Common:
• stomach pain
Common:
• dry socket (inflammation and pain after a tooth extraction)
• swelling of the legs and/or feet due to fluid retention (oedema)
• dizziness, headache
• palpitations (fast or irregular heartbeat), irregular heart rhythm (arrhythmia)
• increased blood pressure
• wheezing or shortness of breath (bronchospasms)
• constipation, wind (excessive gas), gastritis (inflammation of the lining of
the stomach), heartburn, diarrhoea, indigestion (dyspepsia)/stomach
discomfort, nausea, being sick (vomiting), inflammation of the oesophagus,
mouth ulcers
• changes in blood tests related to your liver
• bruising
• weakness and fatigue, flu-like illness
Uncommon:
• gastroenteritis (inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract that involves both
the stomach and small intestine/stomach flu), upper respiratory infection,
urinary tract infection
• changes in laboratory values (decreased number of red blood cells,
decreased number of white blood cells, platelets decreased)
• hypersensitivity (an allergic reaction including hives which may be serious
enough to require immediate medical attention)
• appetite increases or decreases, weight gain
• anxiety, depression, decreases in mental sharpness; seeing, feeling or
hearing things that are not there (hallucinations)
• taste alteration, inability to sleep, numbness or tingling, sleepiness
• blurred vision, eye irritation and redness
• ringing in the ears, vertigo (sensation of spinning while remaining still)
• abnormal heart rhythm (atrial fibrillation), fast heart rate, heart failure,
feeling of tightness, pressure or heaviness in the chest (angina pectoris),
heart attack
• flushing, stroke, mini-stroke (transient ischaemic attack), severe increase in
blood pressure, inflammation of the blood vessels
• cough, breathlessness, nose bleed
• stomach or bowel bloating, changes in your bowel habits, dry mouth,
stomach ulcer, inflammation of the stomach lining that can become serious
and may lead to bleeding, irritable bowel syndrome, inflammation of the
pancreas
• swelling of the face, skin rash or itchy skin, redness of the skin
• muscle cramp/spasm, muscle pain/stiffness
• high levels of potassium in your blood, changes in blood or urine tests
relating to your kidney, serious kidney problems
• chest pain
Rare:
• angioedema (an allergic reaction with swelling of the face, lips, tongue
and/or throat which may cause difficulty in breathing or swallowing, which
may be serious enough to require immediate medical attention)/
anaphylactic/anaphylactoid reactions including shock (a serious allergic
reaction that requires immediate medical attention)
• confusion, restlessness
• liver problems (hepatitis)

• low blood levels of sodium
• liver failure, yellowing of the skin and/or eyes (jaundice)
• severe skin reactions
Reporting of side effects
If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor, pharmacist or nurse. 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.
By reporting side effects, you can help provide more information on the
safety of this medicine.

5

How to store Arcoxia

Keep out of the sight and reach of children.
Do not use Arcoxia after the expiry date which is stated on the pack.
The expiry date refers to the last day of the month.
Blisters: Store in the original package in order to protect from moisture.
Medicines should not be disposed of via wastewater or household waste.
Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medicines no longer required. These
measures will help to protect the environment

6

Contents of the pack and other information

What Arcoxia contains
The active ingredient in Arcoxia Tablets is etoricoxib. Each film coated tablet
contains 90mg of etoricoxib.
The other ingredients are; calcium hydrogen phosphate (anhydrous),
carnauba wax, croscarmellose sodium, hypromellose, lactose monohydrate,
magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, titanium dioxide (E172),
and glycerol triacetate.
What Arcoxia looks like and contents of the pack
Arcoxia Tablets are White, apple shaped, biconvex tablets engraved with
‘202’ on one side and plain on the other side. Each blister strip contains 5
tablets, in boxes of 20 or 30 Tablets.
Manufacturer and Licence Holder
The tablets are manufactured by Merck Sharp & Dohme Ltd. Shotton Lane,
Cramlington, Northumberland NE23 3JU, UK and are procured from within
the EU and repackaged by the Product Licence Holder: Lexon (UK) Limited,
Unit 18, Oxleasow Road, East Moons Moat, Redditch, Worcestershire,
B98 0RE.

POM

PL 15184/0510

Arcoxia is a registered trademark of Merck & Co.Inc.
Leaflet revision date: 21/12/16

Blind or partially sighted?
Is this leaflet hard to see or read?
Phone Lexon (UK) Limited, Tel: 01527 505414
for help.

Ref: 0510/211216/2/F

Etoricoxib 90mg Tablets
Patient Information Leaflet
Read all of this leaflet carefully before you start taking this medicine
because it contains important information for you.
* Keep this leaflet. You may need to read it again.
* If you have any further questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
* This medicine has been prescribed for you only. Do not pass it on to
others. It may harm them, even if their signs of illness are the same as
yours.
* If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. This includes
any possible side effects not listed in this leaflet. See section 4.
Your medicine is called Etoricoxib 90mg Tablets and will be referred to as
Etoricoxib throughout the leaflet. Other strengths are available.
What is in this leaflet
1 What Etoricoxib is and what it is used for
2 What you need to know before you take Etoricoxib
3 How to take Etoricoxib
4 Possible side effects
5 How to store Etoricoxib
6 Contents of the pack and other information

1

What Etoricoxib is and what it is used for

What is Etoricoxib?
• Etoricoxib contains the active substance etoricoxib. Etoricoxib is one of a
group of medicines called selective COX-2 inhibitors. These belong to a
family of medicines called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
What is Etoricoxib used for?
• 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.

Etoricoxib works equally well in older and younger adult patients. If you are
over 65 years of age, your doctor will want to appropriately keep a check on
you. No dosage adjustment is necessary for patients over 65 years of age.
Children and adolescents
Do not give this medicine to children and adolescents under 16 years of age.
Other medicines and Etoricoxib
Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking, have recently taken or might
take any other medicines, including medicines obtained without a
prescription.
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 (drugs 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)
• aspirin, the risk of stomach ulcers is greater if you take Etoricoxib with
aspirin.
- aspirin for prevention of heart attacks or stroke:
Etoricoxib can be taken with low-dose aspirin. 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
- aspirin and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs):
do not take high dose aspirin or other anti-inflammatory medicines while
taking Etoricoxib.

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.

Etoricoxib with food and drink
The onset of the effect of Etoricoxib may be faster when taken without food.

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.

Pregnancy
Etoricoxib tablets must not be taken during pregnancy. If you are pregnant or
think you could be pregnant, or if you are planning to become pregnant, do
not take the tablets. If you become pregnant, stop taking the tablets and
consult your doctor. Consult your doctor if you are unsure or need more
advice.

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.

Pregnancy, breast-feeding, and fertility

Breast-feeding
It is not known if Etoricoxib is excreted in human milk. If you are
breast-feeding, or planning to breast-feed, consult your doctor
before taking Etoricoxib. If you are using Etoricoxib, you must not breastfeed.
Fertility
Etoricoxib is not recommended in women attempting to become pregnant.

2

What you need to know before you take Etoricoxib

Do not take Etoricoxib:
• if you are allergic (hypersensitive) 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 aspirin and COX-2 inhibitors (see Possible Side Effects, section
4)
• if you have a current stomach ulcer or bleeding in your stomach or
intestines
• if you have serious liver disease
• if you have serious kidney disease
• if you are or could be pregnant or are breast-feeding (see ‘Pregnancy,
breast feeding, 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 that has not been controlled by treatment
(check with your doctor or nurse if you are not sure whether your blood
pressure is adequately controlled)
• if your doctor has diagnosed heart problems including heart failure
(moderate or severe types), angina (chest pain)
• if you have had a heart attack, bypass surgery, peripheral arterial disease
(poor circulation in legs or feet due to narrow or blocked arteries)
• if you have had any kind of stroke (including mini-stroke, transient
ischaemic attack or 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.

Driving and using machines
Dizziness and sleepiness have been reported in some patients taking
Etoricoxib.
Do not drive if you experience dizziness or sleepiness.
Do not use any tools or machines if you experience dizziness or sleepiness.
Etoricoxib contains lactose
If you have been told by your doctor that you are unable to tolerate some
sugars, contact your doctor before taking this medicinal product.

3

How to take Etoricoxib

Always take this medicine exactly as your doctor has told you. You should
check with your doctor or pharmacist if you are not sure.
Do not take more than the recommended dose for your condition. Your
doctor will want to discuss your treatment from time to time. It is important
that you use the lowest 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.
There are different strengths available for this medicinal product and
depending on your disease your doctor will prescribe the tablet strength that
is appropriate for you.
The recommended dose is:

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 stomach bleeding or ulcers.
• 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 heart failure, or any other form of heart disease.
• 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 history of liver or kidney disease.
• You are being treated for an infection. Etoricoxib can mask or hide a fever,
which is a sign of infection.
• You have diabetes, high cholesterol, or are a smoker. These can increase
your risk of heart disease.
• You are a woman trying to become pregnant.
• You are over 65 years of age.
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.

Osteoarthritis
The recommended dose is 30 mg once a day, increase to a maximum of 60
mg once a day if needed.
Rheumatoid arthritis
The recommended dose is 60 mg once a day, increased to a maximum of
90 mg once a day if needed.
Ankylosing spondylitis
The recommended dose is 60 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 acute painful period.
Gout
The recommended dose is 120 mg once a day which should only be
used for the acute painful period, limited to a maximum of 8 days
treatment.
Postoperative dental surgery pain
The recommended dose is 90 mg once daily, limited to a maximum of
3 days treatment.

Ref: 0510/211216/2/B

Etoricoxib 90mg Tablets
Patient Information Leaflet (continued)
People with liver problems
• If you have mild liver disease, you should not take more than 60 mg a day.
• If you have moderate liver disease, you should not take more than 30 mg
a day.
Use in children and adolescents
Etoricoxib tablets should not be taken by children or adolescents under 16
years of age.
Elderly
No dose adjustment is necessary for elderly patients. As with other
medicines, caution should be exercised in elderly patients.
Method of administration
Etoricoxib is for oral use. Take the tablets once a day. Etoricoxib can be
taken with or without food.
If you take more Etoricoxib than you should
You should never take more tablets than the doctor recommends. If you do
take too many Etoricoxib tablets, you should seek medical attention
immediately.
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 the forgotten tablet.

• low blood levels of sodium
• liver failure, yellowing of the skin and/or eyes (jaundice)
• severe skin reactions
Reporting of side effects
If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor, pharmacist or nurse. 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.
By reporting side effects, you can help provide more information on the
safety of this medicine.

5

Keep out of the sight and reach of children.
Do not use Arcoxia after the expiry date which is stated on the pack.
The expiry date refers to the last day of the month.
Blisters: Store in the original package in order to protect from moisture.
Medicines should not be disposed of via wastewater or household waste.
Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medicines no longer required. These
measures will help to protect the environment.

6
If you have any further questions on the use of this medicine, ask your
doctor or pharmacist.

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 Etoricoxib and talk
to your doctor immediately (see What you need to know
before you take Etoricoxib section 2):
• shortness of breath, chest pains, or ankle swelling appear or if they get
worse
• yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice) – these are signs of liver
problems
• severe or continual stomach pain or your stools become black
• an allergic reaction- which can include skin problems such as ulcers or
blistering, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat which may cause
difficulty in breathing
The frequency of possible side effects listed below is defined using the
following convention:
Very common (affects more than 1 user in 10)
Common (affects 1 to 10 users in 100)
Uncommon (affects 1 to 10 users in 1,000)
Rare (affects 1 to 10 users in 10,000)
Very rare (affects less than 1 user in 10,000)
The following side effects can occur during treatment with Etoricoxib:
Very Common:
• stomach pain
Common:
• dry socket (inflammation and pain after a tooth extraction)
• swelling of the legs and/or feet due to fluid retention (oedema)
• dizziness, headache
• palpitations (fast or irregular heartbeat), irregular heart rhythm (arrhythmia)
• increased blood pressure
• wheezing or shortness of breath (bronchospasms)
• constipation, wind (excessive gas), gastritis (inflammation of the lining of
the stomach), heartburn, diarrhoea, indigestion (dyspepsia)/stomach
discomfort, nausea, being sick (vomiting), inflammation of the oesophagus,
mouth ulcers
• changes in blood tests related to your liver
• bruising
• weakness and fatigue, flu-like illness
Uncommon:
• gastroenteritis (inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract that involves both
the stomach and small intestine/stomach flu), upper respiratory infection,
urinary tract infection
• changes in laboratory values (decreased number of red blood cells,
decreased number of white blood cells, platelets decreased)
• hypersensitivity (an allergic reaction including hives which may be serious
enough to require immediate medical attention)
• appetite increases or decreases, weight gain
• anxiety, depression, decreases in mental sharpness; seeing, feeling or
hearing things that are not there (hallucinations)
• taste alteration, inability to sleep, numbness or tingling, sleepiness
• blurred vision, eye irritation and redness
• ringing in the ears, vertigo (sensation of spinning while remaining still)
• abnormal heart rhythm (atrial fibrillation), fast heart rate, heart failure,
feeling of tightness, pressure or heaviness in the chest (angina pectoris),
heart attack
• flushing, stroke, mini-stroke (transient ischaemic attack), severe increase in
blood pressure, inflammation of the blood vessels
• cough, breathlessness, nose bleed
• stomach or bowel bloating, changes in your bowel habits, dry mouth,
stomach ulcer, inflammation of the stomach lining that can become serious
and may lead to bleeding, irritable bowel syndrome, inflammation of the
pancreas
• swelling of the face, skin rash or itchy skin, redness of the skin
• muscle cramp/spasm, muscle pain/stiffness
• high levels of potassium in your blood, changes in blood or urine tests
relating to your kidney, serious kidney problems
• chest pain
Rare:
• angioedema (an allergic reaction with swelling of the face, lips, tongue
and/or throat which may cause difficulty in breathing or swallowing, which
may be serious enough to require immediate medical attention)/
anaphylactic/anaphylactoid reactions including shock (a serious allergic
reaction that requires immediate medical attention)
• confusion, restlessness
• liver problems (hepatitis)

How to store Etoricoxib

Contents of the pack and other information

What Etoricoxib contains
The active ingredient in Etoricoxib Tablets is etoricoxib. Each film coated
tablet contains 90mg of etoricoxib.
The other ingredients are; calcium hydrogen phosphate (anhydrous),
carnauba wax, croscarmellose sodium, hypromellose, lactose monohydrate,
magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, titanium dioxide (E172),
and glycerol triacetate.
What Etoricoxib looks like and contents of the pack
Etoricoxib Tablets are White, apple shaped, biconvex tablets engraved with
‘202’ on one side and plain on the other side. Each blister strip contains 5
tablets, in boxes of 20 or 30 Tablets.
Manufacturer and Licence Holder
The tablets are manufactured by Merck Sharp & Dohme Ltd. Shotton Lane,
Cramlington, Northumberland NE23 3JU, UK and are procured from within
the EU and repackaged by the Product Licence Holder: Lexon (UK) Limited,
Unit 18, Oxleasow Road, East Moons Moat, Redditch, Worcestershire,
B98 0RE.

POM

PL 15184/0510

Leaflet revision date: 21/12/16

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Is this leaflet hard to see or read?
Phone Lexon (UK) Limited, Tel: 01527 505414
for help.