Etoricoxib

Anti-inflammatory painkiller (COX-2)
PRESCRIPTION ONLY IN INDIA

Etoricoxib is a anti-inflammatory painkiller (COX-2) found in 13 medicines sold in India, such as Nucoxia 90, Etoshine 90, Arcoxia 90. Below: what it is for, how it works, how to take it, side effects, interactions and pregnancy advice.

What it is used for

Relieves pain and swelling in arthritis, gout attacks and after dental surgery.

How it works

A COX-2 selective NSAID for arthritis, gout and back pain; gentler on the stomach than older NSAIDs but with heart risks.

How to take it

Usually 60 to 90 mg once a day (120 mg for short gout attacks), with or without food.

Common side effects

  • Swollen ankles
  • Raised blood pressure
  • Indigestion
  • Headache

Get medical help straight away if

  • Chest pain or breathlessness
  • Weakness on one side
  • Black stools

Be careful

Can raise blood pressure; caution with heart disease.

Other medicines and interactions

Raises blood pressure; weakens blood pressure medicines; kidney risk with diuretics and ACE inhibitors. Avoid with other NSAIDs.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Must not be used in pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

Brands of Etoricoxib (13)

Arcoxia 90Etody 90Etorica 90Etoshine 90Etowin 90Etoxib 90ETOZOX 90Etrik-90Etrobax 90Ezact 90Intacoxia 90Nucoxia 90Retoz-90

Common questions

What is Etoricoxib used for?

Relieves pain and swelling in arthritis, gout attacks and after dental surgery.

How does Etoricoxib work?

A COX-2 selective NSAID for arthritis, gout and back pain; gentler on the stomach than older NSAIDs but with heart risks.

How should I take Etoricoxib?

Usually 60 to 90 mg once a day (120 mg for short gout attacks), with or without food.

What are the side effects of Etoricoxib?

Common: Swollen ankles, raised blood pressure, indigestion, headache. Get help straight away for: Chest pain or breathlessness, weakness on one side, black stools.

Does Etoricoxib interact with other medicines?

Raises blood pressure; weakens blood pressure medicines; kidney risk with diuretics and ACE inhibitors. Avoid with other NSAIDs.

Is Etoricoxib safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Must not be used in pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

Does Etoricoxib need a prescription in India?

Yes. In India it is a prescription (Schedule H) medicine, so a pharmacist should sell it only with a doctor's prescription.

Which brands contain Etoricoxib?

Arcoxia 90, Etody 90, Etorica 90, Etoshine 90, Etowin 90, Etoxib 90, ETOZOX 90, Etrik-90, Etrobax 90, Ezact 90, Intacoxia 90, Nucoxia 90, Retoz-90.

Sources and further reading

NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu from standard prescribing information.

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For information only, not medical advice. This page is a plain-language summary written from standard prescribing information and the public guides linked below. Brands sometimes change their formula, so always check the composition printed on the pack. Doses here are typical adult doses; yours may differ. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without your doctor or pharmacist, and keep all medicines away from children. In an emergency, call 112 (India) or your local emergency number.