LODINE XL

Drug Name: LODINE XL

LODINE XL DESCRIPTION:
ETODOLAC SUSTAINED ACTION - ORAL (ee-TOE-doe-lack)

COMMON LODINE XL BRAND NAME(S):
Lodine XL

LODINE XL SIDE EFFECTS:
Many side effects observed are mild and usually disappear after a short time. Diarrhea, gas, constipation or headache may occur. If these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor. Report: upset stomach. Unlikely but report promptly: black stools, stomach pain, itching, rash, vision changes, yellowing of the skin or eyes, fever, mood changes, dizziness, ringing in the ears. Very unlikely but report: trouble breathing, swelling of the hands/feet, unusual bleeding or bruising, persistent sore throat, unusual change in urine amount. Infrequently, LODINE XL may increase the skin's sensitivity to sunlight. If this happens to you, avoid prolonged sun exposure, wear protective clothing and use a sunscreen. Avoid sunlamps. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

HOW TO USE LODINE XL:
LODINE XL: Take exactly as directed to minimize the risk of side effects. Take with food. Swallow tablets whole. Do not crush or chew them. LODINE XL is usually taken once daily. Take LODINE XL with 6 to 8 ounces (180-240ml) of water. Do not lie down for at least 30 minutes after taking LODINE XL. In arthritis, it may take one to two weeks before the full effects of LODINE XL are noted. For best results, this should be taken regularly as directed by your doctor.

LODINE XL USES:
Etodolac is used to treat the pain and swelling associated with conditions such as arthritis, bursitis and tendonitis.

LODINE XL PRECAUTIONS:
Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: liver or kidney disease, blood disorders, ulcers, heart disease, alcohol use, high blood pressure, eye disease, allergies (especially drug allergies). Use caution when performing tasks requiring alertness. Limit alcohol intake as it may intensify the drowsiness effect of this medication. This medicine may cause stomach bleeding. Daily use of alcohol, especially when combined with this medicine, may increase your risk for stomach bleeding. Check with your doctor or pharmacist for more information. Caution is advised when LODINE XL is used in the elderly. LODINE XL should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Use of LODINE XL in the last 6 months of pregnancy is not recommended. It is unknown if etodolac is excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

LODINE XL DRUG INTERACTIONS:
Tell your doctor or pharmacist of all the other drugs you take (both prescription and nonprescription), especially of: blood thinners (warfarin), other arthritis drugs, drugs used for inflammation (including aspirin), methotrexate, water pills, digoxin, lithium, cyclosporine. Do not take aspirin without consulting your doctor. Check the ingredients of all nonprescription medications you may be taking since many cough-and-cold formulas contain aspirin. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

LODINE XL OVERDOSE:
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include severe stomach pain, coffee ground-like vomit, dark stool, ringing in the ears, change in amount of urine, unusually fast or slow heartbeat, muscle weakness, slow or shallow breathing, confusion, severe headache or loss of consciousness.

LODINE XL NOTES:
Do not allow anyone else to use LODINE XL. Your doctor may monitor kidney, liver and blood cell test periodically. False-positive results for urine tests (bilirubin and ketones) may occur when taking etodolac.

MISSED LODINE XL DOSE:
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered but not if it is almost time for the next dose. Instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

LODINE XL STORAGE:
Store LODINE XL at controlled room temperature between 68 to 77 degrees F (20-25 degrees C) away from heat, light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom.