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Can Etodolac Tablet Be Cut Into Two Pieces And Take It?

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Posted on Thu, 9 Jun 2016
Question: I am taking Etodolac for pain in my hip as a result of tendinitis (500 mgs.) Have history of gastroenteritis and am taking only 1 a day. This is the 5th day and I don't see much lessening of pain. I cannot swallow the pill, is too large, so I have been breaking it up. I see this is a no-no. What to do? Also was told by PA just now to stop after 14 days. Confusing as MD prescribed 30.
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Answered by Dr. Ronald Schubert (1 hour later)
Brief Answer:
Stop the etodolac

Detailed Answer:
Thank you for contacting HCM with your health care concerns

I am sorry to hear that you are having problems with hip pain. The etodolac has an enteric coating that prevents GI upset. So by breaking the tablet you increase the risk of GI upset. You can continue if you want. I would recommend that you take the medication with food to reduce getting GI upset. A good stopping point would be 14 days. If you have no relief at that time then stop. Taking it any longer without improvement just increases your risk of GI damage.

In addition to the etodolac you can still take tylenol 2 tablets 3-4 times daily for a total XXXXXXX dose of 3000mg.

I hope I answered your question. Please contact us again if you have any additional questions
Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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Answered by
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Dr. Ronald Schubert

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :1984

Answered : 2407 Questions

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Can Etodolac Tablet Be Cut Into Two Pieces And Take It?

Brief Answer: Stop the etodolac Detailed Answer: Thank you for contacting HCM with your health care concerns I am sorry to hear that you are having problems with hip pain. The etodolac has an enteric coating that prevents GI upset. So by breaking the tablet you increase the risk of GI upset. You can continue if you want. I would recommend that you take the medication with food to reduce getting GI upset. A good stopping point would be 14 days. If you have no relief at that time then stop. Taking it any longer without improvement just increases your risk of GI damage. In addition to the etodolac you can still take tylenol 2 tablets 3-4 times daily for a total XXXXXXX dose of 3000mg. I hope I answered your question. Please contact us again if you have any additional questions