Drug Name: Indomethacin
Brand Names: Indocin
Generic Name: Indomethacin (in doe METH a sin)
Uses: Indomethacin belongs to a class of drugs known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. It functions by reducing the occurrence of the hormones that are responsible for pain. Because of this, Indomethacin’s main use is to reduce pain, inflammation and fevers.
How to use: Indomethacin comes as regular tablets, extended release tablets, concentrated liquid and rectal suppositories. Strictly use this according to your doctor’s instructions. For extended-release tablets, do not chew or crush the tablets. Also, it may advisable to take them along with meals or a glass of milk to reduce stomachache occurrences.
Side Effects: Indomethacin may cause some side effects which include dizziness, nausea, depression, fatigue, diarrhea or constipation. If these side effects become severe, contact your doctor immediately.
Other side effects include muscle numbness, open sores in the mouth, seizures, decreased hearing, ringing in the ears, yellowing of the eyes or skin, blood in vomit, black tarry stools and allergic reactions. If these happen, stop taking the medication and consult your doctor immediately.
Precautions: Be sure to tell your doctor about any drugs or supplements that you are taking. Tell your doctor if you are allergic to Indomethacin, aspirins or some other medication. Also, tell your doctor if you have any history of liver, heart, kidney or liver diseases, high-blood pressure, stomach ulcer or bleeding disorder.
Drug Interaction: Indomethacin may be affected when taking aspirin, other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, other cough, cold allergies or pain medicine, blood thinners, and insulin. Your doctor may need to reduce or change your prescription dosage as required.
Overdose: Symptoms of Indomethacin overdose include nausea, vomiting, stomach pains, seizures and slow breathing. In case of Indomethacin overdose, seek emergency medical treatment.
Notes: Strenuous activities should be done carefully when taking Indomethacin, since you may experience dizziness and fatigue while doing so. If it can be helped, avoid these activities. Great care should also be exercised while driving. Be careful about rising up quickly from a standing or lying position.
Also, it is advisable to minimize alcohol intake or stop drinking completely while you are taking Indomethacin since drinking may increase the risk for gastrointestinal bleeding.
Avoid exposure to too much sunlight when taking Indomethacin.
Missed Dose: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it, but if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the previous dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose since this can be dangerous.
Important Note: This drug is tagged by the Food and Drugs Administration as a medicine that may increase the risk of cardiovascular events such as strokes and gastrointestinal bleeding. Follow your doctor’s instructions religiously when using this drug. More information on the FDA’s notes on non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as Indomethacin
Storage: Indomethacin must be tightly sealed and kept at room temperature. Do not store it at places with excessive heat or places with excessive moisture (such as the bathroom). Keep it out of the reach of children.
More details about Indomethacin:
Pain medication at MedlinePlus Drug
