Search for articles or Rx savings
Key takeaways
Etodolac and ibuprofen are both nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) effective for treating mild to moderate pain. Etodolac is available by prescription only. Ibuprofen is available over the counter, and is also available by prescription in higher doses.
While etodolac has a longer half-life, allowing for less frequent dosing, ibuprofen is more accessible and may be preferred for over-the-counter use for pain and fever.
Both medications are covered by insurance and Medicare for their prescription strengths, but ibuprofen, due to its over-the-counter availability, might be more affordable for some patients.
The most common side effects for both drugs include gastrointestinal issues and dizziness, but NSAIDs like etodolac and ibuprofen can also increase the risk of serious cardiovascular and gastrointestinal adverse events.
Drug overview & main differences | Conditions treated | Efficacy | Insurance coverage and cost comparison | Side effects | Drug interactions | Warnings | FAQ
No one wants to live with discomfort or pain for extended periods of time, or at all for that matter. Fortunately, prescription and over-the-counter pain relievers are accessible at your nearest drug store. While they’re not as strong as opioid pain relievers, which require a more in-depth medical evaluation and prescription, NSAIDs like etodolac or ibuprofen are effective for treating mild to moderate pain.
Otherwise known as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, NSAIDs work by blocking the production of prostaglandins. Your body may respond to certain medical conditions by producing prostaglandins, which are the chemicals responsible for pain, inflammation, and fever. NSAIDs block prostaglandin-producing enzymes—COX-1 and COX-2—to control the body’s inflammatory response and reduce pain.
Etodolac and ibuprofen are classified as NSAIDs. However, they have some important differences.
What are the main differences between etodolac and ibuprofen?
Etodolac is sometimes known by its (now discontinued) brand name, Lodine. It is available as a generic drug and can only be obtained with a doctor’s prescription.
Etodolac has a half-life of around six to seven hours and reaches peak concentrations in the blood one to two hours after ingesting it. It is usually taken two to three times daily for pain from arthritis. There is also an etodolac extended-release tablet that has a longer half-life of around eight hours and can be taken once daily.
Ibuprofen is a more common NSAID that is available over-the-counter (OTC). Higher strengths of ibuprofen are also available with a doctor’s prescription. Popular brand names of ibuprofen include Advil, Motrin, and Midol.
Ibuprofen reaches peak blood levels within one to two hours after taking it. However, unlike etodolac, ibuprofen has a shorter half-life of around two hours. Prescription-strength ibuprofen comes in a tablet that’s usually taken three to four times daily. The OTC version comes in oral tablets, capsules, and liquid suspensions.
| Main differences between etodolac and ibuprofen | ||
|---|---|---|
| Etodolac | Ibuprofen | |
| Drug class | Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) | Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) |
| Brand/generic status | Generic available (brand discontinued) | Brand and generic available |
| What is the brand name? | Lodine | Advil, Motrin, Midol |
| What form(s) does the drug come in? | Oral capsule Oral tablet Oral tablet, extended-release |
Oral capsule Oral tablet Oral liquid Injection (NeoProfen) |
| What is the standard dosage? | For pain: 200 to 400 mg every 6 to 8 hours as needed. Do not exceed a maximum dose of 1200 mg per day.
For osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis: Immediate-release 300 mg two to three times daily or 400 to 500 mg twice daily. Extended-release 400 to 1000 mg once daily. Do not exceed a maximum dose of 1200 mg per day. |
For pain: 200 to 400 mg every 4 to 6 hours as needed. Do not exceed a maximum dose of 1200 mg per day unless directed by a physician.
For osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis: 400 to 800 mg three to four times daily. Do not exceed a maximum dose of 3200 mg per day. |
| How long is the typical treatment? | Treatment duration depends on health condition, severity of pain, and other factors. Treatment may be short-term or long-term. | Treatment duration depends on health condition, severity of pain, and other factors. Treatment may be short-term or long-term. |
| Who typically uses the medication? | Adults and children 6 years and older | Adults and children 6 months and older |
Conditions treated by etodolac and ibuprofen
Etodolac and ibuprofen are labeled to treat pain. They’re commonly taken to treat mild to moderate acute pain from dental procedures, migraines, or muscle aches (myalgia).
Etodolac and ibuprofen are especially useful and FDA approved for treating pain and inflammation from osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Higher strengths are usually needed to address more severe joint pain or bone pain associated with arthritis. In some cases, children above the recommended age limit can also be treated with these NSAIDs for juvenile idiopathic arthritis.
Over-the-counter ibuprofen is labeled to treat fever and menstrual cramps (primary dysmenorrhea). An injectable form of ibuprofen called NeoProfen is used to treat patent ductus arteriosus (PDA), a type of heart defect, in premature infants.
| Condition | Etodolac | Ibuprofen |
| Pain | Yes | Yes |
| Osteoarthritis | Yes | Yes |
| Rheumatoid arthritis | Yes | Yes |
| Juvenile idiopathic arthritis | Yes | Yes |
| Fever | No | Yes |
| Primary dysmenorrhea | No | Yes |
| Patent ductus arteriosus | No | Yes |
Is etodolac or ibuprofen more effective?
Both etodolac and ibuprofen are effective NSAIDs for pain relief. They both block cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes to control inflammation and reduce pain in those with arthritis. However, the effects of etodolac last slightly longer. Therefore, some people may prefer etodolac for its lower-frequency dosing.
In a double-blind study comparing etodolac and ibuprofen, 1,446 patients with rheumatoid arthritis were given either 150 mg of etodolac twice daily, 500 mg of etodolac twice daily, or 600 mg of ibuprofen four times daily. Both dosages of etodolac were found to be similar in effectiveness to the ibuprofen dosage. In terms of side effects, those taking etodolac experienced less indigestion, rash, and stomach bleeding than those taking ibuprofen. However, this may be related to the amounts of drug patients were given.
While no other clinical trials have directly compared etodolac and ibuprofen, different studies have compared other NSAIDs to etodolac or ibuprofen. One meta-analysis found that the maximum daily dose of diclofenac is more effective than the maximum daily doses of ibuprofen, naproxen, and celecoxib (but the lowest effective dose of NSAIDs is always recommended). Another meta-analysis found that certain NSAIDs like piroxicam and azapropazone have a high risk of toxicity while low-dose ibuprofen has a low risk of toxicity. Overall, it could be said that NSAIDs tend to differ more in safety rather than effectiveness.
Because of the wide array of options for pain, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider for the best treatment option. A doctor or healthcare provider can provide the appropriate medical advice for specific medical conditions.
Coverage and cost comparison of etodolac vs. ibuprofen
Generic etodolac tablets are usually covered by Medicare and insurance plans. If you have medical conditions like arthritis, insurance plans will likely cover etodolac for pain. The average retail cost of etodolac can vary depending on the dose, but you can pay around $50 for etodolac by using a SingleCare coupon at participating pharmacies.
Since ibuprofen is available over-the-counter, some forms may not be covered by insurance plans. However, most Medicare Part D and insurance plans should cover prescription-strength ibuprofen tablets depending on the treatment regimen. In general, ibuprofen is more affordable than etodolac. Use a SingleCare coupon for ibuprofen if you have a prescription from your healthcare provider.
| Etodolac | Ibuprofen | |
| Typically covered by insurance? | Yes | Yes (prescription-strength tablets) |
| Typically covered by Medicare Part D? | Yes | Yes |
| Standard dosage | 300 mg 2 to 3 times daily | 400 to 800 mg 3 to 4 times daily |
| Typical Medicare copay | $0–$76 | $0–$22 |
| SingleCare cost | $40–$80 | $4–$24 |
Common side effects of etodolac vs. ibuprofen
The most common side effects of NSAIDs, including etodolac and ibuprofen, are nausea, indigestion (dyspepsia), constipation, diarrhea, and abdominal or stomach pain. Other than gastrointestinal side effects, NSAIDs can also cause dizziness, swelling in the hands or feet (edema), headache, rash, and ringing in the ears (tinnitus). Most side effects of etodolac and ibuprofen are mild and go away on their own.
Serious side effects of NSAIDs may include allergic reactions, such as severe rash or anaphylaxis, from active or inactive ingredients. Other serious side effects include gastrointestinal adverse effects such as stomach bleeding and peptic ulcers. Consult your healthcare provider if you experience blood in the stool, weight loss, or severe abdominal pain.
| Etodolac | Ibuprofen | |||
| Side effect | Applicable? | Frequency | Applicable? | Frequency |
| Nausea | Yes | 1%–10% | Yes | 1%–3% |
| Abdominal pain | Yes | 1%–10% | Yes | 1%–3% |
| Indigestion | Yes | 1%–10% | Yes | 1%–3% |
| Constipation | Yes | 1%–10% | Yes | 1%–3% |
| Diarrhea | Yes | 1%–10% | Yes | 1%–3% |
| Dizziness | Yes | 1%–10% | Yes | 1%–3% |
| Edema | Yes | 1%–10% | Yes | 1%–3% |
| Headache | Yes | 1%–10% | Yes | 1%–3% |
| Rash | Yes | 1%–10% | Yes | 1%–3% |
| Tinnitus | Yes | 1%–10% | Yes | 1%–3% |
This may not be a complete list of adverse effects that can occur. Please refer to your doctor or healthcare provider to learn more.
Source: DailyMed (Etodolac), DailyMed (Ibuprofen)
Drug interactions of etodolac vs. ibuprofen
Because they block the COX-1 enzyme, which plays a role in platelet production and blood clots, NSAIDs can interfere with the effects of blood thinners. NSAIDs may increase the risk of bleeding from antiplatelet agents like aspirin and anticoagulants like warfarin.
Etodolac and ibuprofen can cause the body to retain fluid and affect the function of the kidneys. As a result, these NSAIDs can increase blood pressure. If you’re also taking high blood pressure (antihypertensive) medication, such as lisinopril or losartan, your blood pressure may need to be monitored while taking an NSAID.
Etodolac and ibuprofen can affect how cyclosporine, digoxin, or methotrexate are cleared from the body. Taking an NSAID could lead to an increased risk of cyclosporine, digoxin, or methotrexate toxicity.
Find other possible drug interactions below.
| Drug | Drug class | Etodolac | Ibuprofen |
| Aspirin | Antiplatelet | Yes | Yes |
| Warfarin | Anticoagulant | Yes | Yes |
| Lisinopril Captopril Ramipril |
Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor | Yes | Yes |
| Losartan Valsartan Olmesartan |
Angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) | Yes | Yes |
| Furosemide Hydrochlorothiazide |
Diuretic | Yes | Yes |
| Lithium | Mood stabilizer | Yes | Yes |
| Methotrexate Pemetrexed |
Antimetabolite | Yes | Yes |
| Cyclosporine | Immunosuppressant | Yes | Yes |
| Digoxin | Cardiac glycoside | Yes | Yes |
Consult a healthcare professional for other possible drug interactions.
Warnings of etodolac and ibuprofen
Etodolac and ibuprofen, like other NSAIDs, can increase the risk of serious cardiovascular thrombotic events such as heart attack and stroke. NSAID use should be avoided or monitored in people with cardiovascular problems like heart failure, heart disease, and high blood pressure.
The use of etodolac or ibuprofen can lead to an increased risk of serious gastrointestinal (GI) adverse events, such as stomach bleeding and peptic ulcers. Without proper treatment, inflammation, and bleeding in the GI tract can be fatal. Older people may have a higher risk of serious GI adverse events.
NSAIDs should not be used right before or after a heart procedure called coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery.
Those with kidney disease may be at an increased risk of further kidney problems while taking NSAIDs.
Consult your healthcare provider for other precautions before taking an NSAID.
Frequently asked questions about etodolac vs. ibuprofen
What is etodolac?
Etodolac is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to treat pain and inflammation. It is FDA approved to treat osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis in adults. Generic etodolac can only be obtained with a prescription.
What is ibuprofen?
Ibuprofen is commonly known by brand names such as Advil and Motrin. It is available over-the-counter to treat mild to moderate pain, fever, and menstrual cramps. Higher-strength ibuprofen can be obtained with a prescription to treat pain and inflammation from osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Are etodolac and ibuprofen the same?
Etodolac and ibuprofen are not the same. While they’re both NSAIDs, they have differences in dosing and how they’re used. Etodolac is a prescription drug primarily used for adults with arthritis. Ibuprofen is more accessible as an over-the-counter drug for mild pain and fever.
Is etodolac or ibuprofen better?
The better NSAID depends on the dose you take and what you’re taking it for. Compared to ibuprofen, etodolac lasts longer in the body, and thus, it can be taken fewer times throughout the day. However, it may be more expensive than ibuprofen. Based on your overall condition, your doctor may recommend one over the other.
Can I use etodolac or ibuprofen while pregnant?
Etodolac and ibuprofen are not generally recommended during pregnancy. The use of NSAIDs during pregnancy is associated with an increased risk of birth defects or miscarriage, especially during late pregnancy. Consult your healthcare provider if you are considering treatment options while pregnant.
Can I use etodolac or ibuprofen with alcohol?
Minimal alcohol consumption may be fine on occasion while taking an NSAID. However, drinking excessive amounts of alcohol can lead to an increased risk of gastrointestinal adverse effects with NSAIDs. Alcohol and NSAIDs can irritate the stomach and intestinal lining, which could lead to ulcers or bleeding.
Is etodolac a pain killer?
Etodolac is an effective pain killer. It is most effective for treating pain and inflammation caused by arthritis. It is also useful for treating acute pain after certain procedures such as dental surgery.
Is etodolac stronger than naproxen?
The effectiveness of NSAIDs depends on the dose taken, among other factors. All things being equal, etodolac and naproxen are comparable in terms of effectiveness. According to double-blind studies, etodolac and naproxen are equally effective for treating rheumatoid arthritis. Both drugs are also well tolerated in terms of side effects.