Etoricoxib 30mg, 60mg, 90mg & 120mg Tablets
Quick summary: Etoricoxib is a selective COX-2 inhibitor used to help relieve pain and inflammation. This page covers the tablet strengths commonly listed as 30mg, 60mg, 90mg and 120mg, plus the main safety points...
This content is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice, diagnosis or treatment from a qualified healthcare professional.
Quick summary: Etoricoxib is a selective COX-2 inhibitor used to help relieve pain and inflammation. This page covers the tablet strengths commonly listed as 30mg, 60mg, 90mg and 120mg, plus the main safety points to check before use.
Important: Always follow the patient leaflet and advice from a doctor or pharmacist for the exact use of any medicine.
Medical disclaimer: This article is for general information only and does not replace professional medical advice. It does not diagnose conditions or tell you how to start, stop, or change treatment. If you are unsure whether etoricoxib is suitable, speak with a qualified healthcare professional and check the official product leaflet.
What is etoricoxib?
Etoricoxib is a selective COX-2 inhibitor in the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) group. It is used to help relieve pain and inflammation in people aged 16 and over.
The tablet strengths commonly listed are 30mg, 60mg, 90mg and 120mg. These different strengths allow treatment to be tailored by a healthcare professional to the condition being treated.
How etoricoxib works
Etoricoxib works by selectively blocking the COX-2 enzyme. This reduces the production of prostaglandins, which are involved in pain, swelling and inflammation.
Because it is COX-2 selective, it is often discussed as having a different stomach-related profile from some traditional NSAIDs. However, it can still cause side effects and is not suitable for everyone.
What conditions is etoricoxib used for?
According to the original content, etoricoxib is used for several inflammatory pain conditions, including:
- Osteoarthritis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Ankylosing spondylitis
- Gout
- Post-dental surgery pain
The exact use depends on the condition, the tablet strength, and the advice given by the prescriber.
Available tablet strengths
Etoricoxib is available in several strengths. The correct strength depends on the condition being treated and the individual treatment plan.
| Strength | Commonly described use in the source content |
|---|---|
| 30mg | Lower-strength option for pain and inflammation management |
| 60mg | Used for inflammatory pain, including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis |
| 90mg | Used when a stronger anti-inflammatory effect is needed |
| 120mg | Reserved for more severe pain situations in the source content |
Do not rely on strength alone to judge suitability. The right tablet depends on the condition, your medical history, and the prescriber’s instructions.
Who should not use etoricoxib?
The original content lists several situations where etoricoxib should not be used or may not be appropriate. These include:
- Allergy to etoricoxib or other NSAIDs
- Active peptic ulcers
- Severe liver disease
- Severe kidney disease
- Pregnancy, especially the third trimester
- Children and young people under 16
If you have a history of stomach ulcers, kidney problems, liver problems, or allergy to painkillers, this should be discussed with a healthcare professional before use.
Possible side effects
Like all medicines, etoricoxib may cause side effects. The original content mentions the following:
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Stomach discomfort
- Nausea
- Diarrhoea
- Cardiovascular risks with prolonged use, particularly in people with pre-existing conditions
Side effects can vary from person to person. If you notice anything unusual or concerning, seek advice from a healthcare professional and refer to the patient leaflet.
How to use etoricoxib safely
Safe use depends on following the prescribed plan and checking the medicine information carefully. Key points include:
- Check with a doctor or pharmacist before use if you have other health conditions or take other medicines.
- Follow the prescribed strength and duration exactly as directed.
- Read the patient leaflet for practical instructions and safety information.
- Watch for side effects and seek advice if anything changes.
- Attend any recommended check-ups if you have ongoing health conditions.
Etoricoxib should be used with care in people who need regular anti-inflammatory treatment, especially where heart, kidney, liver or stomach issues are relevant.
Frequently asked questions
▸ What is etoricoxib 120mg used for?
The source content says 120mg is generally reserved for more severe pain situations and may be used under strict medical supervision. The exact use depends on the condition and the prescriber’s advice.
▸ Is 90mg etoricoxib better than 120mg?
Not necessarily. The original content says the choice depends on the severity of the condition and the person’s response to treatment. A healthcare professional should decide which strength is appropriate.
▸ Can etoricoxib be used for arthritis?
Yes, the source content lists osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis among the conditions treated with etoricoxib.
▸ Does etoricoxib treat gout?
The original content includes gout as one of the conditions treated with etoricoxib.
▸ Who should avoid etoricoxib?
The source content says people with allergy to etoricoxib or other NSAIDs, active peptic ulcers, severe liver or kidney disease, pregnancy, or age under 16 should not use it. Always confirm with a healthcare professional.
Safety reminder
If you have chest pain, shortness of breath, black stools, vomiting blood, swelling, a severe rash, or any sudden worsening symptoms while taking a pain medicine, seek urgent medical help. For all other concerns, speak with a doctor or pharmacist and check the official leaflet.
Summary
Etoricoxib is a selective COX-2 inhibitor used for pain and inflammation, with tablet strengths commonly listed as 30mg, 60mg, 90mg and 120mg. It is used for conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, gout and post-dental surgery pain. Because it is not suitable for everyone, safety checks and professional guidance are important before use.
Medical disclaimer
This content is for educational purposes only. It should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always ask a doctor, pharmacist or qualified healthcare professional before starting, stopping or changing any medicine.
Sources and verification
The following sources or official references are listed to support verification of the medicine information discussed in this article.
- NHS: Etoricoxib
- Electronic Medicines Compendium (emc): Etoricoxib patient information leaflet
- NICE: Osteoarthritis in over 16s
- NICE: Rheumatoid arthritis in adults
To improve this article with specific references, add a custom field named _aio_sources in the post editor and write one source per line using: Source title|Source URL.
Medicine information can change and may vary depending on country, product formulation, patient history and professional guidance. Always check official medicine information and ask a healthcare professional for personal medical questions.