Etodolac belongs to the class of medicines called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and it is used to treat moderate to severe pain, inflammation, and fever.
Ibuprofen is also a medicine from the NSAIDs class of drugs and used for several types of pain, inflammation, and fever, toothache.
It means it comes under the same umbrella of the drug class, so this article is going to explain the difference between them.
How Does Etodolac Act?
It inhibits the formation of prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are made up of fats and are responsible for inflammation, pain, and fever.
The enzyme which forms prostaglandins is COX . Cyclooxygenase enzyme exists in two forms COX-1 and COX-2.
So, Etodolac inhibits the COX enzyme, which ultimately stops the production of prostaglandins.
How Does Ibuprofen Act?
It also inhibits the COX enzyme. It is not selective, as it can hinder either COX-1 or COX-2. As these both medicines comes under the same drug class group there will be some similarities and slight important difference between them.
Etodolac and Ibuprofen Factors Of Differences And Similarities
- Both medicines are similar in the following ways, which are as follows:
- Both belong to the class of medications called NSAIDs. (Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs)
- Both inhibit the COX enzyme.
- Both are used to treat pain, swelling, inflammation, and fever.
- Both are not controlled drugs. (addictive or harmful)
- Both have almost the same interactions with other medicines.
- Both are not safe during pregnancy.
What's The difference Then?
- Etodolac is a prescription drug, whereas Ibuprofen is available over the counter.
- Treatment undergone via Etodolac is always long-term compared to Ibuprofen, whose treatment can either be long or short-term.
- Etodolac’s half-life is more significant than Ibuprofen, which means Etodolac stays in your body for a longer time.
- Etodolac is usually given to adults, whereas Ibuprofen can also be given to children.
- Ibuprofen is non-selective towards COX enzyme inhibition; however, Etodolac inhibits the COX-2 enzyme more.
- Ibuprofen is available in many brands as compared to Etodolac.
- Ibuprofen increased blood pressure.
Is Etodolac Stronger Than Ibuprofen?
Different research studies suggested that both medicines are similar in action. However, it has been revealed that side effects, such as bleeding and gastrointestinal pain, constipation, are more profound in patients who take Ibuprofen rather than Etodolac.
The Proof Center:
Effect of Ibuprofen and Etodolac on Edema, Trismus, and Pain in Lower Third Molar Surgery
Can We Use Ibuprofen And Etodolac Together For Better Use?
The interaction between both drugs is Major. This combination is usually avoided when there is a significant interaction between two medications. As both medicines belong to the same class of drugs, the risk may outweigh the benefit. Taking Ibuprofen with Etodolac is not generally suggested as both can increase the risk of bleeding, gastrointestinal ulceration, and inflammation.
What Is The Cost Difference Between Etodolac And Ibuprofen?
Ibuprofen is less costly and affordable than Etodolac. However, etodolac is available only on a doctor’s prescription, and it is included in many medical insurances. Ibuprofen is an OTC drug, so insurance companies have not included it.
How Much Dosage Is Effective For Both Ibuprofen And Etodolac?
The dose depends on different medical conditions.
In case of pain the standard dose of Etodolac is 200 to 400 mg three times daily or as needed.
For osteoarthritis of rheumatoid arthritis dose of Etodolac is 300 mg two to three times daily or 400 to 500 mg twice daily.
In case of pain, the dose of Ibuprofen of 200 to 400 mg every 4 to 6 hours is adequate.
For osteoarthritis of rheumatoid arthritis, the dose of Ibuprofen 400 to 800 mg three to four times daily is adequate.
Conclusion:
Ibuprofen and Etodolac are both NSAIDs used to treat moderate to severe pain, inflammation, and fever.
Different doses of both drugs produce similar effects, but Etodolac is safer than Ibuprofen and causes fewer side effects. Each of the medicines is effective in their own aura. There is no need of competing between them. On a concluding note they are both effective.
