Posology : מינונים

4.2 Posology and method of administration

Antirheumatic - Management of signs and symptoms: Initially 800-1,200 mg/ day in divided doses: 400 mg t.i.d or b.i.d, 300 mg q.i.d or t.i.d or 600 mg b.i.d, followed by dosage adjustment within the range of 600-1,200 mg/day in divided doses (600 mg b.i.d or 400 mg t.i.d or b.i.d; 300 mg q.i.d, t.i.d or b.i.d, 200 mg q.i.d or t.i.d). Note: administration on a three-dose a day schedule may provide greater benefit than two divided doses.
The total daily dose of etodolac should not exceed 1,200 mg. For patients weighing 60 kg or less - not to exceed a total daily dose of 20 mg/kg. As with other NSAIDs, the lowest dose and longest interval should be sought for each patient. Therefore, after observing the response to initial therapy with etodolac, the dose and frequency should be adjusted to suit individual patient’s needs (tolerance and response). In responsive patients, partial symptomatic relief of symptoms usually occurs within 1 or 2 weeks, although maximum effectiveness may occur only after several weeks of therapy.
Analgesia (acute pain) - Initially 400 mg followed by 200-400 mg every 6-8 hours or 600 mg twice daily followed by 600 mg once-twice daily, as needed. Not to exceed a total daily dose of 1,200 mg. For patients weighing 60 kg or less - not to exceed a total daily dose of 20 mg/kg. Onset of action - 30 minutes. Time to peak effect: 1-2 hours. Symptom relief lasts approximately 5-6 hours following single 400 mg doses and up to 8-12 hours in some patients. If a patient taking 400 mg doses has adequate pain relief that does not last 8 hours, then 300mg every 6 hours (q.i.d) is a reasonable schedule to try.
During long-term administration the dose of Etopan may be adjusted, up or down, depending on the patient’s clinical response (maximum dose of 1,200 mg/day).
As with other NSAIDs, Etopan is preferably taken after meals or with food or antacids to reduce gastrointestinal irritation, especially during chronic use. However, for faster absorption when a rapid initial effect is required, the first 1 or 2 doses may be taken 30 minutes before meals or at least 2 hours after meals. If an antacid is taken concurrently, an aluminum and magnesium- containing formulation may be preferred. It is recommended to take etodolac tablets/ capsules with a full glass of water and that the patient remains in an upright position for 15-30 minutes after administration.
In the treatment of primary dysmenorrhea, maximum benefit is achieved by initiating etodolac therapy as rapidly as possible after the onset of menses. Patients should be advised to avoid alcoholic beverages while under treatment with this medicine.
Method of administration
For oral administration.
To be taken preferably with or after food. Swallow the tablet/capsule whole with a tumblerful of water.