Indomethacin
Uses of Indomethacin
Indomethacin is commonly used to treat Ankylosing Spondylitis, Arthralgia Joint Pain, Dental Pain, Gout, Headache, Pain During Menstruation, Post Operative Pain, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Patent Ductus Arteriosus
How Indomethacin Works
Indomethacin is an NSAID drug that works by inhibiting the enzymes responsible for the synthesis of prostaglandin precursors. This gives Indomethacin anti-fever, anti-inflammation and anti-pain properties.
Side Effects of Indomethacin
Chest pain, Palpitation, Nausea, Vomiting, Indigestion, Heartburn, Dizziness, Insomnia, Tremor, Lightheadedness
Warnings
Kidney High Risk
Dosage adjustment is needed for people with renal impairment and contraindicated for patients with end-stage renal failure.
Alcohol Not Advisable
It is not advisable to consume alcohol with any NSAID drug such as Indomethacin as there is an increase chance in stomach bleeding.
Pregnancy Not Safe
There are significant risks on fetal development as well as a miscarriage in the early and late pregnancy when Indomethacin and other NSAID drugs were used during pregnancy. It is thus not advisable to use Indomethacin during pregnancy.
Driving Not advisable
It is not advisable to drive when under Indomethacin treatment due to its potential side effects such as lightheadedness and dizziness which can affect the ability to concentrate and drive.
Liver Use With Care
There is no dosage adjustment is needed for patients with hepatic impairment but close monitoring may be needed in cases where there is elevation of liver function test.
Lactation Not Advisable
It is not advisable to take Indomethacin during breastfeeding as it is excreted in the breastmilk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Written by Dr Sri Viknarajan, MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)
Reviewed by Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli, MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).
