Lodine (Etodolac) for Psoriasis

Overview
Lodine is a prescription medication that was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1991 to treat several forms of arthritis. It is also known by its drug name, Etodolac. Lodine is used to treat pain, stiffness, and swelling caused by psoriatic arthritis.

Lodine should not be used by people who are allergic to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as Aleve or Ibuprofen. Indocin may not be appropriate for children under the age of 18 or pregnant women. Do not take Lodine while you are also taking aspirin or another NSAID drug. Lodine should be used with caution in smokers, diabetics, and people with a history of heart, liver, or kidney problems, high blood pressure, or strokes.

Lodine is an NSAID. NSAIDs help reduce fever, pain and inflammation. Lodine is believed to work by inhibiting the production of chemicals that promote inflammation in the body.

How do I take it?
Lodine is taken orally one to three times a day with food. Your doctor will prescribe a dosage based on your needs. When taking NSAIDs it is important to use the lowest dose that is effective, and to take it for the shortest amount of time to avoid side effects.

If you are taking the extended-release Lodine tablet, swallow it whole without crushing, splitting, or chewing.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions exactly when taking Lodine.

Results
In an article published in 2005, researchers reviewed scientific literature on the use of NSAIDs and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) for the treatment of psoriatic arthritis. The researchers concluded that NSAIDs are more effective than a placebo for treating joint pain, swelling, and tenderness associated with psoriatic arthritis.

Side effects
Rare but serious side effects of Lodine may include an increase in the risk of stroke, heart attack, and gastrointestinal bleeding. Seek immediate medical assistance if you experience pain in your chest or left arm, shortness of breath, numbness in your hands or feet, or sudden weakness on one side of your body.

Common side effects of Lodine include headache, diarrhea, vomiting, bloating, constipation, gas, dizziness, blurry vision, runny nose, sore throat, and ringing in the ears.

Contact your doctor if you experience severe stomach pain, nausea or vomiting, black stools that appear bloody or tarry, a change in the amount of urine you produce, yellowing of the eyes or skin (jaundice), weight gain, skin problems such as rash or hives, mouth ulcers, swelling, or fast heartbeat (tachycardia) while taking Lodine.

Seek medical help immediately if you experience symptoms of an allergic reaction such as trouble breathing, severe dizziness, rash, or itching or swelling of the face, tongue, and throat.