Barca SR

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Medically reviewed

Laura Arias

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Barca SR

Property Description
Active ingredient Etodolac
Form Sustained-Release (SR) Tablet
Pharmacological class Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID)
General purpose Relief of pain, inflammation, and fever
Origin Synthetic (Acetic Acid derivative)

Barca SR is a specific, branded medicinal product containing the active substance Etodolac, classified as a Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID). The product is an Extended-Release Tablet for oral administration, distinguished by its controlled-release mechanism designated by the suffix "SR" (Sustained Release). Barca SR is typically classified as a prescription-only (Rx) medication, focused on managing persistent inflammatory conditions in the adult population.


What Type of Medication is Barca SR?

Barca SR is a single-ingredient synthetic product containing Etodolac (INN), which is scientifically categorized as an NSAID and falls under the specific subclass of Acetic Acid derivatives (WHO ATC Code M01AB08). This classification establishes its core function in modulating the body's inflammatory response. The medication is clinically recognized for its ability to exert anti-inflammatory, analgesic (pain-relieving), and antipyretic (fever-reducing) effects. The medication's general use scenario involves providing symptomatic relief for discomfort associated with long-term inflammatory processes.


Composition and the Sustained-Release (SR) Form

The medication's composition is centered around Etodolac as the sole active ingredient, which is delivered via the distinct Sustained-Release (SR) Tablet form. The SR mechanism, which differentiates it from immediate-release Etodolac formulations, utilizes specialized matrix components to control the rate at which Etodolac is released into the bloodstream. This specific formulation is designed to provide consistent therapeutic activity for a longer duration, thereby supporting prolonged symptom relief throughout the dosing interval. Etodolac is used as an NSAID in managing symptoms of inflammatory conditions.

Regulatory References

  1. DailyMed: Etodolac Extended-Release Label

What side effects are possible with Barca SR?

Barca SR, containing Etodolac, is an Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID) with a safety profile documented by government regulatory authorities (e.g., FDA, EMA). This profile is characterized by a hierarchy of risks, including mandatory serious warnings and classifications of common adverse reactions.

Serious Adverse Reactions

The official regulatory labeling highlights major safety risks, including an increased risk of serious cardiovascular thrombotic events (such as myocardial infarction and stroke), which may be fatal. This risk may increase with longer duration of use. Additionally, the medication carries a risk of serious gastrointestinal (GI) adverse events, including bleeding, ulceration, and perforation of the stomach or intestines, which can occur without warning symptoms at any time during treatment.

Common Adverse Reactions

Side effects categorized as Common (occurring in 1% to 10% of patients in clinical data) primarily affect the Gastrointestinal Disorders and Nervous System Disorders systems. These include dyspepsia, abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea, constipation, headache, dizziness, and edema (swelling).

Safety in Specific Populations

Safety documents contain specific notes for certain groups. Geriatric patients (aged 65 and above) are noted as being at greater risk for serious gastrointestinal adverse events. Use of the medication must be avoided in pregnant women at mathbf30 weeks gestation and later due to the risk of harm to the fetus, particularly premature closure of the fetal ductus arteriosus.

Safety-Related Restrictions

The medicine is strictly contraindicated for treating peri-operative pain in the setting of Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) surgery. It is also contraindicated in patients with a history of asthma, urticaria, or other allergic-type reactions precipitated by aspirin or other NSAIDs.

Overdose and Emergency Response

The official regulatory documentation for Etodolac (Barca SR) outlines specific manifestations and required emergency actions in the event of an overdose. Documented clinical presentations typically include gastrointestinal symptoms such as epigastric pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Central Nervous System (CNS) effects are also recognized, including lethargy, drowsiness, dizziness, and excitation, as well as the sensory manifestation of tinnitus.

Overdose may progress to severe and life-threatening outcomes affecting multiple systems. These officially documented complications include acute renal failure, liver damage, respiratory depression, and serious CNS events such as seizures and coma. Gastrointestinal bleeding, perforation, and ulceration are also severe outcomes noted in regulatory labeling. Older patients are identified as being at increased risk for these serious gastrointestinal adverse events.

In all cases of suspected overdose, official guidance mandates that an individual seek immediate medical attention. Emergency services must be contacted immediately if symptoms involve collapse, trouble breathing, seizure, or loss of consciousness. Management described in regulatory sources is strictly symptomatic and supportive, as no specific antidote is known. Procedures such as gastric lavage and the administration of activated charcoal may be undertaken.

Therapeutic Uses of Barca SR

What Barca SR Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

Barca SR is commonly used to offer symptomatic support in situations involving certain distressing symptoms and conditions. Therapeutic indications outline the specific symptoms or conditions for which a medicine is generally used.

The common therapeutic domains for Barca SR are relevant in conditions characterized by periods of heightened symptoms, recurrent manifestations, and contexts marked by increased discomfort or tension. It is generally applied in addressing symptom clusters that may become intense or disruptive, relevant for managing symptoms that interfere with daily comfort.

Core Therapeutic Focus

It is relevant when short-term symptomatic assistance is needed across conditions characterized by episodic or fluctuating manifestations. The medication supports patients and contributes to easing the overall symptom load, helping them cope more steadily. It assists with improving comfort during symptomatic periods.

Quick Fact: Supportive symptom management for heightened symptoms

Regulatory References

  1. European Medicines Agency on therapeutic indications

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Who can and cannot use Barca SR?

This section describes the eligibility criteria based strictly on official regulatory documentation concerning patient populations and clinical status.

Absolute Non-Eligibility (Contraindicated)

Use is officially contraindicated and prohibited in the following groups:

  • Patients with a documented hypersensitivity to Etodolac or an allergic reaction (such as asthma or urticaria) precipitated by Aspirin or other NSAIDs.
  • Individuals with Advanced Renal Disease or who are being treated for peri-operative pain following CABG surgery.
  • Pregnant women starting at 30 weeks gestation (the third trimester).

Established Use and Restrictions

Use is established in Adults and is approved for pediatric patients 6 to 16 years of age for treating specific inflammatory conditions. Safety and effectiveness have not been established in children younger than 6 years. Older adults should use the medicine with greater caution.

Use is restricted or requires monitoring in patients with Severe Heart Failure, recent Myocardial Infarction (MI), a history of Gastrointestinal Ulcers or Bleeding, or Severe Hepatic Failure. Use during lactation should be avoided.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

Barca SR (Etodolac) has officially documented interaction patterns primarily concerning pharmacodynamic reinforcement and altered drug exposure, as stated in regulatory labels.

Classification Interacting Agents and Official Outcome
Pharmacodynamic Interactions (Additive Risks)
Bleeding Agents (e.g., Warfarin): Synergistic risk of serious gastrointestinal bleeding. Co-administration with other NSAIDs, Antiplatelet agents, and SSRIs is generally not recommended due to increased bleeding risk.
Antihypertensives (e.g., ACE-Inhibitors): Etodolac may diminish the antihypertensive effect and reduce the natriuretic effect of diuretics (e.g., Furosemide, Thiazides).
Pharmacokinetic Interactions (Altered Exposure)
Lithium: Etodolac reduces renal clearance of Lithium, causing an elevation of plasma lithium levels.
Methotrexate, Cyclosporine, Digoxin: Etodolac may cause changes in the elimination of these medicines, leading to elevated serum levels and potential increased toxicity.
Probenecid: Reduces the metabolic clearance of Etodolac, increasing Etodolac plasma exposure.

Interaction Restrictions and Specific Conditions

Use of Barca SR in the perioperative setting of Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) surgery is officially contraindicated. Co-administration with Alcohol is noted to increase the risk of ulcers and bleeding. Regarding administration timing, Etodolac should not be used for 8 to 12 days after Mifepristone administration. The interaction affecting renal function (with ACE-inhibitors/Diuretics) is specifically noted as being heightened in patients with compromised renal function.

Mechanism of Action

Preferential COX-2 Enzyme Inhibition

The core action of the drug is the preferential inhibition of the Cyclooxygenase-2 ( COX-2) enzyme by the active S-enantiomer. Blocking COX-2 activity suppresses the conversion of arachidonic acid into pro-inflammatory prostaglandins, thereby initiating a molecular cascade that reduces mediator activity at the cellular level.


Modulation of Central and Peripheral Signaling

The resulting systemic reduction in prostaglandins influences two critical systems: the peripheral nociceptive signaling pathway and the central hypothalamic thermoregulation. Peripherally, this mechanism prevents the chemical sensitization of peripheral nociceptors, while centrally, it influences the hypothalamic temperature set-point, leading to physiological adjustments. It is relevant in the mechanism that influences activity within these targeted pathways.


⏳ Sustaining the Mechanistic Effect

The Sustained-Release (SR) formulation engages mechanisms that regulate the temporal profile of the drug's activity. By controlling the rate of absorption, this structural design ensures a prolonged, steady concentration of Etodolac is maintained at the enzyme target site, which is necessary to maintain the inhibition of the COX-2 enzyme over an extended duration.

Dosage and Administration Information

How to Use Barca SR: Administration Guidelines

Barca SR (Etodolac Extended-Release) is an oral medication with administration instructions intended to ensure the controlled-release mechanism functions as expected. The usage pattern is structured around its sustained-release (SR) formulation, which supports a once-daily dosing frequency.

Administration Protocol

The extended-release tablet is for oral administration and is available in strengths such as 400 mg, 500 mg, and 600 mg.

Instruction Category Description
Dosing Schedule The standard adult daily dose range is 400 mg to 1000 mg taken once daily. The maximum recommended dose is 1000 mg per day.
Frequency The SR formulation is designed for once daily administration.
Handling Restriction The tablet must be swallowed whole. It should not be crushed, broken, or chewed to preserve the sustained-release properties.
Meal Timing The medication may be taken with or without food. Taking it with food may help mitigate potential gastrointestinal upset.

Use Contexts and Adjustments

This medication is primarily used as part of a long-term management plan for chronic conditions, utilizing the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration necessary to control symptoms. Dosage adjustments for mild to moderate hepatic or renal impairment are generally not necessary for initial dosing.

For pediatric patients (ages 6 to 16) with Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis (JRA), weight-based regimens are used, with daily doses ranging from 400 mg up to 1000 mg, based on body weight. Instructions include swallowing the tablet whole to ensure the intended release profile is maintained throughout the dosing interval.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of Studies

Evaluating the Proposed Approach

Clinical research has explored the approach of modulating specific cellular pathways related to the condition. This mechanism provides the foundation for the drug's investigation in a controlled environment.

Studies have focused on:

  • Mechanism of Action: Initial laboratory and animal studies investigated the effects on cellular targets and key biological markers associated with the condition.
  • Pharmacokinetics: Early-phase trials tracked how the body processes the drug components, including absorption, distribution, metabolism, and elimination.

Clinical Trials and Patient Outcomes

Studies have examined whether the drug combination is associated with measured outcomes, including changes in symptoms and quality of life over defined treatment periods.

Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs)

Larger RCTs were conducted to examine outcomes related to the combination's use. These studies compared the drug combination against a placebo or an established standard-of-care treatment.

  • Symptom Changes: Research has investigated the measured changes in key symptom indicators, such as pain and inflammation, over a predefined treatment duration.
  • Long-term Follow-up: Open-label extension phases following the main trials have explored the potential for extended duration of symptom change and documented adverse events over a longer timeframe.

Comparative Effectiveness Research

Comparative studies have been conducted to describe outcomes when this combination was compared to other standard treatments for the condition.

  • Head-to-Head Studies: These trials aimed to descriptively compare specific measured outcomes of the new combination versus a current single-agent therapy.
  • Patient-Reported Outcomes (PROs): Researchers collected data on how patients perceived changes in their health status and functional ability during the course of the study.

Summary of Findings

Overall, the evidence describes the scope and findings of studies evaluating this therapeutic option. The research has centered on understanding its biological activity, the reporting of adverse events in controlled settings, and its association with changes in patient-reported symptoms compared to controls within the context of the trials conducted.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Barca SR (FAQ)

Q: What is Barca SR used for?

Barca SR is a medication that contains etodolac, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It is used to relieve the symptoms of:

  • Osteoarthritis (a type of arthritis that causes joint damage and pain)
  • Rheumatoid arthritis (a chronic inflammatory disorder affecting many joints, including those in the hands and feet)
  • Pain

Q: How does Barca SR work?

Barca SR works by reducing substances in the body that cause inflammation and pain. Its active ingredient, etodolac, is an NSAID that helps decrease swelling, tenderness, and pain associated with conditions like arthritis.

Q: How should I take Barca SR?

Barca SR is a prolonged-release tablet, which means the active ingredient is released slowly over time. The tablet should be swallowed whole with a full glass of water. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet, as this can change how the medicine is released into your body.

It is typically recommended to take Barca SR with or after food to help reduce the chance of stomach upset. Always follow your doctor's instructions exactly regarding the dose and frequency.

Q: What are the common side effects of Barca SR?

As with all medications, Barca SR can cause side effects. Common side effects may include:

  • Upset stomach or stomach pain
  • Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
  • Constipation
  • Gas or heartburn
  • Dizziness or fatigue

If you experience any of these side effects and they concern you, talk to your healthcare provider.

Q: What should I avoid while taking Barca SR?

Because Barca SR is an NSAID, there are certain things you should discuss with your doctor or avoid while taking this medication:

  • Other NSAIDs: Do not take other NSAID medications (like aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen) while taking Barca SR unless specifically directed by your doctor, as this can increase the risk of serious side effects, such as stomach bleeding.
  • Alcohol: Limit or avoid consuming alcohol, as it can increase the risk of stomach bleeding and other stomach problems.
  • Driving or Operating Machinery: Since Barca SR may cause dizziness or drowsiness, you should be cautious when driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how the medication affects you.

How should Barca SR be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Barca SR?

This section outlines the official, label-based requirements for storing and discarding Barca SR (Etodolac Sustained-Release Tablet).


Official Storage Requirements

Barca SR must be stored at controlled room temperature, typically defined as 15 C to 30 C (59 F to 86 F). The medication must be kept in a well-closed container and stored away from direct heat, moisture, and light. It is mandatory to keep the tablets from freezing.


Protection and Disposal

For safety, it is an official requirement to store Barca SR out of the sight and reach of children.

Do not keep outdated medicine. Official regulatory guidance advises users to ask a healthcare professional or pharmacist how to correctly dispose of any unused or expired tablets.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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