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Home > Drug Category > Anti-Inflammatory > Lodine and Equivalent

Lodine Information

Lodine (etodolac) is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and alleviate stiffness. It is commonly prescribed for the acute and long-term management of pain, osteoarthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease, while rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune inflammatory condition that affects joints. Both conditions cause pain, swelling, and reduced mobility. Lodine works by inhibiting specific enzymes in the body, primarily cyclooxygenase (COX), which are responsible for producing prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are natural substances that mediate pain, inflammation, and fever responses. By reducing the synthesis of these prostaglandins, Lodine helps to lessen the inflammatory reaction and provides effective relief from associated pain and swelling.

Lodine Side Effects

The most common side effects of Lodine may include abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, dizziness, drowsiness, headache, indigestion, nausea, and heartburn. These side effects are generally mild and may lessen with continued use or by taking the medication with food. Call your doctor right away if you have any of the serious side effects, such as:
• Black, tarry, or bloody stools or vomit that looks like coffee grounds (signs of gastrointestinal bleeding or ulcers);
• Chest pain, sudden weakness on one side of the body, shortness of breath, or slurred speech (signs of heart attack or stroke);
• Decreased urination or swelling in the legs (signs of kidney problems);
• New or worsening high blood pressure;
• Severe allergic reaction, such as rash, breathing difficulties, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat;
• Severe skin reactions (e.g., severe rash with redness, blistering, or peeling);
• Unexplained weight gain or significant swelling (fluid retention);
• Unusual bruising or bleeding;
• Yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, or severe fatigue (signs of liver problems).

Lodine Precautions

Do not use Lodine if you are allergic to etodolac or any other ingredients in this medication or if you have had an allergic reaction (like asthma, hives, or severe swelling) to aspirin or other NSAIDs. Before you start using this medication, tell your doctor about your medical history, including if you have a history of stomach ulcers or bleeding, heart disease (e.g., heart failure, history of heart attack or stroke), Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, high blood pressure, kidney disease, liver disease, asthma, bleeding disorders, or significant fluid retention. Tell your doctor about all your medications, including prescription, OTC, herbal supplements, and vitamins. There may be a drug interaction between Lodine and certain medications, including blood thinners (anticoagulants such as warfarin), corticosteroids, diuretics, aspirin, certain antidepressants, other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), ACE inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), lithium, methotrexate, and cyclosporine. Concurrent use of alcohol can increase the risk of stomach bleeding. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant before using Lodine. NSAIDs, especially during the third trimester (at 20 weeks gestation and later), can harm the fetus and cause problems with labour or delivery. Use of NSAIDs is generally not recommended during pregnancy, particularly in the last trimester. Inform your doctor if you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed before using Lodine. Small amounts of etodolac may pass into breast milk; discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Do not use this medicine in children without talking to your doctor. Inform your doctor if you smoke or regularly consume alcohol, as these can increase the risk of gastrointestinal problems. In older adults, there is an increased risk of serious side effects, including gastrointestinal bleeding and kidney problems; your doctor will monitor you closely.

Use your medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Lodine comes as an oral tablet or capsule, including extended-release (ER) formulations. Swallow the tablet or capsule whole with a full glass of water. Do not crush, chew, or break extended-release tablets or capsules, as this can disrupt their controlled release and increase the risk of side effects. For immediate-release forms, if not extended-release, consult your pharmacist or doctor if crushing or splitting is an option. You can take Lodine with food or milk to help reduce stomach upset, though it can also be taken on an empty stomach. Be consistent with how you take it each day. Do not lie down for at least 10 minutes after taking the tablet. Take Lodine at the same time(s) each day to help you remember. Do not exceed the recommended dose or duration of treatment without consulting your doctor, as this can increase the risk of serious side effects. Store Lodine at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep all medicines out of reach of children.

Do I need a prescription to order Lodine?

Yes, a prescription is required from your physician to order Lodine.