Etodolac
Etodolac is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to manage pain, inflammation, and stiffness caused by conditions such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. It works by reducing hormones that cause inflammation and pain in the body.
Etodolac is an NSAID used to treat pain and inflammation from arthritis and other conditions.
This medication carries a boxed (black box) warning — the strongest type of FDA warning. Review the full prescribing information before use.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- M01AB08
- RxNorm
- 24605
- Generic
- Etodolac
- Class
- atc-m01
- Brands
- Lodine
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- tablet, capsule
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Dosage and administration
- Usual dose
- 500mg twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 250mg twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 400mg daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- once daily
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
Overdose information
Special Populations
8 groupspregnancy
first trimesteravoid if possible
avoid use during pregnancy unless benefits outweigh risks
regular fetal monitoring
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
pregnancy
second trimesteravoid if possible
avoid use unless absolutely necessary
regular fetal monitoring and ultrasound
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
pregnancy
third trimestercontraindicated
do not use during third trimester
not applicable
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
lactation
breastfeedingavoid
etodolac passes into breast milk; discontinue breastfeeding or avoid drug
monitor infant for adverse effects
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
pediatric_age
children under 18not recommended
not approved for use in pediatric patients; safety and efficacy not established
not applicable
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
geriatric
elderly 65 years and olderstart at low end of dosing range
use lowest effective dose for shortest duration; monitor for GI bleeding and renal function
regular monitoring of renal function and GI symptoms
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
renal_impairment
mild to moderatereduce dose and monitor closely
use with caution; adjust dose based on creatinine clearance; avoid in severe renal impairment
monitor renal function tests regularly
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
hepatic_impairment
mild to moderateuse with caution
use with caution in patients with hepatic impairment; may require dose adjustment
monitor liver function tests
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
Statistics and clinical data
FDA Approval Year
FDA approval year for Etodolac (Lodine)
Drug class
Drug class information
Mechanism of action
Primary mechanism of action
Common uses
Common therapeutic uses
Etodolac is primarily used to treat osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and mild to moderate pain. It helps reduce joint pain, swelling, stiffness, and improves physical function in patients with inflammatory joint conditions.
Etodolac works by inhibiting cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, particularly COX-2, which reduces the production of prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are chemicals in the body that promote inflammation, pain, and fever. By blocking their production, etodolac decreases inflammation and relieves pain.
Like other NSAIDs, etodolac may increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, and stomach ulcers, especially with long-term use. It should be used at the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration possible. Patients with a history of stomach bleeding, kidney problems, or cardiovascular disease should use caution. Alcohol should be avoided as it may increase the risk of stomach irritation.
Contraindications
Conditions and patient states where this medication should be avoided or used with caution.
Do not use (1)
Known allergy to this medication or its components
Use caution (1)
Consult healthcare provider for benefits vs risks assessment
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 24, 2026. · Read our editorial policy