The primary use of Indomethacin is to manage moderate to severe pain, inflammation, and stiffness caused by conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, and ankylosing spondylitis. Indomethacin belongs to the class of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Additional uses of Indomethacin include providing relief from acute pain, managing musculoskeletal pain, bursitis, and tendinitis, and closing a persistent fetal blood vessel in premature infants using the injectable form.
Headache
Dizziness
Nausea and vomiting
Stomach pain
Diarrhoea or constipation
Indomethacin is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID).
It works by inhibiting cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes in the body. These enzymes produce substances called prostaglandins, which cause pain, inflammation, and fever when there is tissue damage or infection. By blocking these enzymes, Indomethacin reduces the production of prostaglandins at the site of injury or inflammation. This helps to relieve pain, swelling, and fever associated with certain illnesses or injuries. Therefore, Indomethacin manages discomfort and reduces inflammation by influencing the body's natural response to damage or disease.
MSc (Applied Genetics)
BMS, FMC, MD Resident
Indomethacin can be taken orally (capsules, extended-release capsules, and as a liquid suspension), rectal administration (suppository) and intravenously (injection)
Indomethacin is typically used in adults and adolescents above 14 years of age.
Indomethacin is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to it or other NSAIDs. Patients with a history of asthma attacks, hives, or allergic reactions triggered by NSAIDs should not use Indomethacin. It is also contraindicated following a coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery.
Indomethacin can interact with blood thinners (e.g., warfarin, heparin), aspirin, corticosteroids (like prednisone), antipsychotics (lithium), medications for cancer (methotrexate), diuretics and blood pressure medications (such as hydrochlorothiazide, lisinopril), and certain heart medications (such as digoxin).
Overdosing on Indomethacin can lead to severe stomach pain, vomiting, extreme drowsiness, confusion, and shallow or irregular breathing. Seek immediate medical attention if an overdose is suspected.
If a dose of Indomethacin is missed, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor.
Drinking plenty of water can help manage some of the gastrointestinal side effects like diarrhoea and constipation.
Lying down or resting in a quiet, dark room may help if feeling dizzy, drowsy or experiencing headaches.
Indomethacin may make you feel dizzy or drowsy. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how the medicine affects you.
Indomethacin is not routinely recommended during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. It should only be used if specifically advised by your doctor after weighing the benefits against potential risks.
Patients with heart, kidney, or liver disease should use Indomethacin with caution. Regular monitoring might be required to ensure safety.
Elderly patients should also exercise caution while using Indomethacin due to increased risk of adverse effects.
Limiting the consumption of foods high in purines can help manage gout and reduce the frequency of gout attacks.
Regular strength and flexibility exercises can help reduce pain and stiffness associated with various musculoskeletal conditions, such as bursitis and tendinitis.
Frequently asked questions
No, Indomethacin is not a steroid. It is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that helps manage pain and reduce inflammation.
Indomethacin can cause drowsiness and dizziness, which may affect your sleep. If these side effects persist or worsen, consult your doctor.
There is no definitive evidence to suggest that Indomethacin directly affects fertility. However, if you are planning to conceive, you should discuss this with your doctor.
Indomethacin should be taken as prescribed by your doctor. Do not self-adjust the dose or frequency without medical advice.
Indomethacin starts working soon after ingestion, but the exact time may vary depending on the individual's metabolism and the severity of the condition being managed.
The best time to take Indomethacin would be as advised by your doctor. It is generally recommended to be taken with food.
Indomethacin is not specifically known to affect mood. It is primarily used for managing pain and inflammation. However, as it can help manage painful conditions, some individuals may feel an overall improvement in their quality of life. If you observe any significant mood changes while taking this medicine, consult your doctor.
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