Etodolac
Article Abstract:
Etodolac is a newly available nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that has been approved as a general-purpose painkiller and for treatment of osteoarthritis. It is not approved as a treatment for rheumatoid arthritis. Like other NSAIDs, etodolac blocks the production of prostaglandins (hormones that are produced and act at or near the same tissue). The fact that etodolac's chemical structure differs from other NSAIDs has been emphasized in marketing, but little advantage has been proven to reside in this difference. Animal studies have suggested that etodolac may be less likely to diminish the protective effect of prostaglandins on the stomach lining. The drug is absorbed effectively, but absorption can be modulated by antacids or food. The liver is involved in the breakdown and removal of etodolac. In clinical trials, its effectiveness in treating osteoarthritis was similar to other NSAIDs such as aspirin, but it has not been compared with ibuprofen (Motrin) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) in treating this disorder. Etodolac appears to be as good as, or better than, aspirin in relieving pain. Side effects include abdominal pain and indigestion. Headache, dizziness, and skin effects have also occurred. Fecal blood loss and stomach erosion are less with etodolac than with ibuprofen or indomethacin, but the relation between these events and gastrointestinal bleeding is not proven. In summary, the effectiveness of etodolac resembles that of other NSAIDs, with the possible difference of etodolac causing less gastrointestinal bleeding. However, acetaminophen does not cause bleeding, is useful in treating osteoarthritis and relieving pain, and costs much less. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)
Publication Name: Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0025-732X
Year: 1991
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Drugs for depression and anxiety
Article Abstract:
There is a wide variety of antidepressant drugs to choose from. Most are equally effective and differ only in their side effects. A class of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are used more often than tricyclics and monoamine oxidase inhibitors because they have fewer serious side effects. SSRIs include Celexa, Prozac, Paxil, and Zoloft. Antidepressants can also be used to treat anxiety, although benzodiazepines are most often used. Benzodiazepines include Xanax, Klonopin, Valium, Ativan, and Serax.
Publication Name: Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0025-732X
Year: 1999
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