Indometacin for pain and inflammation

About indometacin

What is indometacin used for?

Indometacin a type of anti-inflammatory medicine used to treat painful conditions such as arthritis, sprains and strains, back pain, period (menstrual) pain, and gout pain.

How does indometacin work?

Indometacin works by blocking the effect of chemicals in your body, called cyclo-oxygenase (COX) enzymes. These enzymes help to make other chemicals in the body, called prostaglandins.

Some prostaglandins are produced at sites of injury or damage, and cause pain and inflammation. By blocking the effect of COX enzymes, fewer prostaglandins are produced, which means pain and inflammation are eased.

Side effects of indometacin

Common side effects of indometacin are:

• Indigestion.

• heartburn.

• Stomach pain.

• Feeling sick or vomiting.

• Diarrhoea or constipation.

• Feeling dizzy.

You will find a full list in the manufacturer's information leaflet supplied with your medicine.

The unwanted effects often improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine, but speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following continue or become troublesome.

How to manage indometacin side effects

Who should not take indometacin?

Some medicines are not suitable for people with certain conditions, and sometimes a medicine may only be used if extra care is taken. For these reasons, before you start taking indometacin, it is important that your doctor knows:

• If you have asthma or any other allergic disorder.

• If you have ever had a stomach or duodenal ulcer, or if you have an inflammatory bowel disorder such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis.

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

• If you are over 65 years of age.

• If you have liver or kidney problems.

• If you have a heart condition, or a problem with your blood vessels or circulation.

• If you have high blood pressure.

• If you have a high blood sugar level or cholesterol level.

• If you are a smoker.

• If you have epilepsy, Parkinson's disease, or a mental health problem.

• If you have any blood clotting problems.

• If you have a connective tissue disorder, such as systemic lupus erythematosus. This condition is also called lupus, or SLE.

• If you are taking any other medicines. This includes any medicines you are taking which are available to buy without a prescription, such as herbal and complementary medicines.

• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to any other NSAID (such as aspirin, naproxen, diclofenac, and ibuprofen), or to any other medicine.

How to take indometacin

• Before starting indometacin, read the patient information leaflet inside the pack. It explains the strength of your capsules and lists possible side effects.

• Take indometacin exactly as your doctor has advised. Your dose and how often to take it will be shown on the label. Ask your pharmacist if you are unsure.

• Take the capsules with food or after a snack to reduce the risk of indigestion. Swallow them with a drink if needed.

• If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it is nearly time for the next one. Do not take two doses at the same time.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Your doctor will prescribe the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible time to reduce side effects. If you need long-term treatment, you may also be given medicine to protect your stomach.

• Keep any regular appointments with your doctor so they can check your progress, especially if you are taking indometacin long term.

• If you have asthma, anti-inflammatory medicines can sometimes worsen breathing symptoms. Stop taking indometacin and contact your doctor if this happens.

• Check with a pharmacist before taking any other medicines, including cold and flu remedies, as some contain anti-inflammatory painkillers that should not be taken with indometacin.

• Tell your doctor, dentist, or surgeon about all the medicines you are taking before any treatment or operation.

How to store indometacin

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.

• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take for indomethacin to work?

Indomethacin usually starts working within 1-2 hours after taking a dose. For ongoing conditions, it may take a few days of regular use to feel the full effect.

Can you drink alcohol with indomethacin?

You should avoid or limit alcohol while taking indomethacin. Drinking alcohol can increase the risk of stomach irritation, ulcers, and bleeding, and make other side effects worse.

Is it safe to take indomethacin during pregnancy?

Indomethacin is not recommended during pregnancy, especially after 20 weeks as it may cause serious complications for the unborn baby, including kidney and heart problems.

Is indomethacin a strong painkiller?

Indomethacin is considered a strong anti-inflammatory painkiller compared with many other NSAIDs. It is often used for more severe pain and inflammation, but it can cause more side effects, so it is usually prescribed with care.

How much stronger is indomethacin than ibuprofen?

Indomethacin is generally considered stronger than ibuprofen at reducing inflammation and pain. Because it is more potent, it is often used when ibuprofen has not been effective, but it also carries a higher risk of side effects.