osudhkosh

Generic

Indomethacin

24 brands available in the market

At a glance

Indomethacin is used for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, osteoarthritis, gout, and acute non-articular rheumatism.

Description

Indomethacin is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that inhibits cyclooxygenase-1 and 2 (COX-1 and COX-2) enzymes, reducing prostaglandin synthesis. It provides anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antipyretic properties. It relieves pain, reduces joint swelling and edema, and improves joint mobility.

Indications
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Ankylosing spondylitis
  • Osteoarthritis (degenerative joint disease)
  • Gout
  • Acute non-articular rheumatism (bursitis, synovitis, tendinitis)
Therapeutic class

Drugs for Osteoarthritis, Drugs used for Rheumatoid Arthritis, Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

Pharmacological class

NSAID (Indole Acetic Acid Derivative)

Pharmacology

Indomethacin is an NSAID with anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antipyretic properties. It reversibly inhibits cyclooxygenase-1 and -2 (COX-1 and -2) enzymes, reducing synthesis of prostaglandin precursors. It is absorbed promptly following oral administration and peak plasma levels occur within 2 hours. Approximately two-thirds is excreted in urine and remainder in feces.

Mechanism of action

Inhibits COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes to reduce prostaglandin synthesis, resulting in relief of pain, inflammation and fever.

Dosage

Adult Dose (Oral):

  • Inflammatory/Rheumatoid Disorders: 25-50 mg every 8-12 hours (max 200 mg/day); ER: 75-150 mg/day
  • Bursitis/Tendinitis: 75-150 mg/day in divided doses
  • Acute Gouty Arthritis: 50 mg every 8 hours for 3-5 days
  • Sustained-release Capsule: Rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, osteoarthritis: 75 mg once daily (twice daily if severe); Acute gout: 75 mg twice daily

Child Dose (14 years): 25-50 mg every 8-12 hours (max 200 mg/day)

Administration

Take with food or milk (to prevent stomach upset); swallow whole capsule; do not chew, crush or break; follow the dose and duration as advised by your doctor.

Missed dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible; if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to regular schedule; do not double the dose.

Side effects

Common Side Effects:

  • Vomiting
  • Stomach pain/epigastric pain
  • Nausea
  • Indigestion
  • Diarrhea
  • Heartburn
  • Loss of appetite

Others: Headache (morning), vertigo, mental disturbances (rare), electrolyte imbalances

Precautions & warnings

Precautions:

  • Indomethacin may decrease alertness and affect vision; do not drive
  • Take with food or milk to prevent upset stomach
  • Long term use may lead to stomach bleeding and kidney problems
  • Avoid alcohol (may cause excessive drowsiness and increase stomach problems)
  • Inform doctor if history of heart disease or stroke
  • Caution in psychiatric problems, epilepsy or parkinsonism
  • Monitor kidney function, liver function and blood components for long-term treatment
Contraindications

Contraindications:

  • Ulcer, gastritis, active ulcerative colitis
  • Previous hypersensitivity
Drug interactions

Drug Interactions:

  • May increase plasma levels of methotrexate
  • Increased risk of GI bleeding with warfarin
  • May reduce hypotensive effects of hydralazine, furosemide, β-blockers, thiazide diuretics
  • Increased risk of hyperkalemia with K-sparing diuretics, ACE inhibitors, K supplements
  • Probenecid increases plasma concentration
  • Diflunisal decreases renal clearance and increases plasma concentration (Potentially Fatal)
Food interactions

Food Interactions: It is unsafe to consume alcohol with Indomethacin.

Use in pregnancy

Use in Pregnancy: Unsafe during pregnancy; definite evidence of risk to developing baby; not recommended during pregnancy.

Pregnancy Category: C — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.

Use in lactation

Use in Lactation: Safe during breastfeeding; does not pass into breastmilk in significant amount and is not harmful to baby.

Pediatric use

Pediatric Use: 14 years: 25-50 mg every 8-12 hours (max 200 mg/day); not normally given to neonates (except to assist closure of patent ductus arteriosus).

Geriatric use

No specific dosage adjustment needed for elderly; however caution is advised.

Renal / hepatic impairment

Renal Impairment: Safe in kidney disease; no dose adjustment recommended; however monitor kidney function and potassium levels regularly.

Hepatic Impairment: Caution in liver disease; dose adjustment may be needed.

Overdose effects

Overdose: Severe headache, dizziness, confusion, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea; severe cases may cause seizures, coma; gastric lavage and activated charcoal; symptomatic treatment.

Storage conditions

Store in a cool and dry place protected from light; keep out of reach of children.

Chemical structure

Indomethacin

Common questions

What is Indomethacin used for?
It is used for rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, osteoarthritis, gout, and acute non-articular rheumatism.
How to take it?
Take with food or milk; follow the prescribed dose; caution with long-term use.
What are the side effects?
Stomach pain, nausea, diarrhea, indigestion, headache.
⚠️ This information is for educational purposes only — not a substitute for medical advice. Consult a registered physician before taking any medicine.