Etoricoxib: uses, side effects & brands

Written & medically reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS · Last reviewed 5 November 2026

Etoricoxib is a COX-2 NSAID that is a little gentler on the stomach, used for arthritis and gout. It belongs to the NSAID / pain reliever group. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs relieve pain, swelling and fever, but can affect the stomach, kidneys and heart.

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Drug type — dosing is set by your doctor

Measure	Range
Drug class	NSAID / pain reliever
Type	Prescription
Dose	Individual — ask your doctor or pharmacist

What it is used for

Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis
Ankylosing spondylitis
Acute gout attacks
Short-term pain after dental surgery

Common brand names

India: Etozox, Nucoxia, Etoshine
Worldwide: Arcoxia

Common side effects

Ankle swelling or fluid retention
Raised blood pressure
Indigestion or tummy pain
Dizziness or headache

Before taking it — precautions

Not for people with uncontrolled high blood pressure, heart disease or past stroke
Tell your doctor about kidney or liver disease, or stomach ulcers
Avoid in pregnancy and breastfeeding; blood pressure is checked

When to see a doctor urgently

Chest pain, breathlessness or weakness on one side (urgent)
Black, tarry stools or vomiting blood (urgent)
Swelling of the face, wheezing or severe rash (urgent)

Not a prescription — no dose shown. The right dose of etoricoxib depends on age, weight, kidney/liver function and the condition, so MedDroid does not show a dose here. Always get your dose from a doctor or pharmacist and the leaflet inside the pack. General educational information only.

Frequently asked questions

Is etoricoxib gentler on the stomach?

It is a COX-2 selective NSAID with less stomach bleeding risk than older NSAIDs, but the risk is not zero.

Why is my blood pressure checked?

Etoricoxib can raise blood pressure, so it is monitored, especially when starting.

Can I take etoricoxib with heart disease?

Usually not — it can increase the risk of heart attack and stroke.

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Sources & further reading

Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.