- INDOCIN (indomethacin)
Description
Treats pain caused by arthritis, gout, bursitis and other medical problems. Belongs to a
class of drugs called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Brand Name(s)
Novomethacin®
Indocin®
Indometacin®
Indocin Sr®
When you should not use this medicine
You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to indomethacin,
aspirin, or other pain arthritis medicines, such as Voltaren®, Naprosyn® or Aleve®,
Motrin®, or Clinoril®. The reaction may have included wheezing or trouble breathing,
hives, rash, or swelling in the face.
How to use and store this medicine
Your doctor will tell you how much to take and how often. Store at room temperature, away
from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.
Capsules:
- Take your medicine with a full glass of water.
- You may take the medicine with food, milk, or antacids (such
as Maalox® or Mylanta®) so it does not upset your stomach.
Extended release capsules:
- Swallow whole. Do not crush, open or chew.
- Take your medicine with a full glass of water.
- You may take the medicine with food, milk, or antacids (such
as Maalox® or Mylanta®) so it does not upset your stomach.
If you miss a dose:
- Take the missed dose as soon as possible.
- If it is almost time for your next regular dose, wait until
then to take your medicine and skip the missed dose.
- You should not use two doses at the same time.
How to use this medicine
Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter
medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
- You should not use this medicine with aspirin or products
that contain aspirin, naproxen (Aleve®), or ibuprofen (Advil® or Motrin®).
- Avoid drinking alcohol while you are taking this medicine.
- Make sure your doctor knows if you are taking Coumadin® or
digoxin (Lanoxin®).
Warnings
- Talk with your doctor before taking indomethcin if you have
heart disease, high blood pressure, liver or kidney disease, blood disorders, or ulcers or
other stomach problems.
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Ulcers and stomach bleeding are sometimes caused by this
type of medicine. These problems can happen without warning signs. You may need to see
your doctor for regular check-ups while taking this medicine.
Side effects
Call your doctor right away if you have any of these side effects:
- Severe rash, hives, or itching
- Rapid swelling of face or around eyes
- Chest tightness or trouble breathing
- Unexplained fever or sore throat or fever
- Unusual bleeding or bruising
- Yellowing of skin or eyes
- Decreased amount of urine
- Severe stomach pain or bloody vomit
- Black, tarry or bloody stools
- Severe headache
If you have problems with these less serious side effects,
tell your doctor.
- Nausea
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Stomach cramps or discomfort
- Drowsiness or dizziness
- Swelling of feet or legs or weight gain
- Sensitivity of skin to sunlight
