Indications 

Lodine is a prescription medicine indicated for acute and long-term treatment and management of symptoms associated with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.  

Lodine is also utilized to manage acute pain arising from different medical conditions. 

Belonging to the class of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), Lodine exerts its therapeutic effect by inhibiting the production of specific natural substances in the body responsible for causing pain and inflammation. 

Uses and Dosage 

Before taking Lodine and every time you get a refill, carefully review its medication guide and patient information leaflet. Do not hesitate to consult with your doctor or pharmacist if any concerns or inquiries arise. 

The appropriate dosage of Lodine depends on the patient’s medical condition and treatment response. Typically, doctors prescribe the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration possible to minimize the risk of stomach bleeding and other adverse effects. 

For arthritis treatment, Lodine is typically taken 2 to 3 times daily, whereas, for pain relief from other sources, it is taken every 6 to 8 hours. 

To achieve optimal results, take Lodine regularly at the same time each day as prescribed. Do not alter the prescribed dosage and the frequency of administration without your doctor’s approval. 

If taking Lodine as needed, prompt administration at the onset of pain is crucial for maximum effectiveness. Delaying medication until the pain worsens may compromise its efficacy. 

Side Effects 

Listed below are potential adverse reactions associated with the use of Lodine. Inform your physician or pharmacist promptly if any of these symptoms persist or worsen. 

Common Side Effects 

• Nausea 
• Vomiting 
• Stomach pain 
• Indigestion 
• Diarrhea 
• Constipation 
• Gas 
• Dizziness 
• Headache 
• Tired feeling 
• Rash 
• Ringing in the ears 

Serious Side Effects 

• Changes in vision 
• Any skin rash, regardless of the severity 
• Shortness of breath (even with mild exertion) 
• Swelling or rapid weight gain 
• Signs of stomach bleeding: 
  • Bloody or tarry stools 
  • Coughing up blood 
  • Vomit that resembles coffee grounds 
• Signs of liver problems: 
  • Nausea 
  • Upper stomach pain 
  • Itching 
  • Fatigue 
  • Flu-like symptoms 
  • Loss of appetite 
  • Dark urine 
  • Clay-colored stools 
  • Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes) 
• Signs of kidney problems: 
  • Reduced or no urination 
  • Swelling in feet or ankles 
  • Fatigue 
• Symptoms of low red blood cells (anemia): 
  • Pale skin 
  • Unusual tiredness 
  • Light-headedness 
  • Cold hands and feet 

Call your doctor immediately if you experience any of the serious symptoms listed above. 

Seek emergency medical attention immediately if you experience symptoms of a heart attack or stroke, such as: 

• Chest pain radiating to the jaw or shoulder 
• Sudden numbness or weakness on one side of the body 
• Slurred speech 
• Leg swelling 
• Shortness of breath 

Allergic Reactions 

Seek emergency medical help if you experience symptoms of an allergic reaction to Lodine, such as: 

• Hives 
• Runny or stuffy nose 
• Wheezing 
• Difficulty breathing 
• Swelling in the face or throat 

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience a severe skin reaction to Lodine, such as: 

• Fever 
• Sore throat 
• Burning eyes 
• Skin pain 
• Red or purple skin rash with blistering and peeling 

The side effects of Lodine listed here are not complete. Inform your doctor promptly if any unlisted side effects occur and cause discomfort.  

Cautions 

Before starting treatment with Lodine, inform your physician or pharmacist if you have allergies, especially to etodolac, aspirin, other NSAIDs like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn), any other medications, or any inactive ingredients in Lodine capsules. Obtain a list of ingredients from your pharmacist. 

Before taking Lodine, inform your doctor or pharmacist about your medical history, particularly the following: 

• Asthma (including a history of worsened breathing after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs) 
• Blood disorders (such as anemia, bleeding/clotting problems) 
• Nasal polyps 
• Heart disease (such as a previous heart attack) 
• High blood pressure 
• Liver disease 
• Stroke 
• Swelling (edema, fluid retention) 
• Stomach/intestinal/esophagus problems (such as bleeding, heartburn, ulcers) 

Lodine may potentially interact with certain medications, including but not limited to: 

• Aliskiren 
• Cidofovir 
• Lithium 
• Methotrexate 
• Ace inhibitors: 
  • Benazepril 
  • Lisinopril 
• Angiotensin II receptor blockers: 
  • Losartan 
  • Valsartan 
• Corticosteroids: 
  • Dexamethasone 
  • Prednisone 
• Diuretics:  
  • Furosemide 

To avoid potential drug interactions, inform your healthcare provider and pharmacist about all the medications you are currently taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, supplements, and herbal products.  

Ensure to inform your healthcare provider and pharmacist about the use of the following medications, as they may elevate the risk of bleeding when taken with Lodine: 

• Anti-platelet drugs: 
  • Clopidogrel 
• Blood thinners such as: 
  • Dabigatran 
  • Enoxaparin 
  • Warfarin 

Check every medication label carefully as they may contain pain relievers/fever reducers like aspirin and NSAIDs such as ibuprofen, ketorolac, and naproxen, which can increase the risk of side effects if taken with Lodine. 

However, if your doctor has instructed you to take low-dose aspirin to prevent heart attack or stroke, continue taking it unless instructed otherwise.  

Use of Lodine for a long time, in high doses, or in the presence of heart disease can increase the risk of fatal heart attack or stroke. Avoid using this medication before or after heart bypass surgery (coronary artery bypass graft or CABG). 

Limit your sun exposure and avoid tanning booths and sunlamps while taking Lodine, as it may increase your sensitivity to the sun. Make sure to apply sunscreen and wear protective clothing when outdoors. If you experience sunburn or skin blisters/redness, inform your doctor promptly. 

The safety of Lodine has not been established in pregnant women through adequate and well-controlled studies. The potential benefits must be weighed against the potential risks to the fetus before use during pregnancy. 

During the last 20 weeks of pregnancy, using an NSAID like Lodine may lead to severe heart or kidney problems in the unborn baby and potential complications in the pregnancy. 

Transfer of etodolac into the breastmilk is unknown. Consult your doctor before nursing an infant while taking this medication.