Indomethacin (By Mouth)

Indomethacin (in-doe-METH-a-sin)

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):

Indocin, Indocin SR
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

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 This Medicine:

Capsule, Long Acting Capsule, Liquid

• Your doctor will tell you how much to take and how often.
• Swallow the extended-release capsule whole. Do not crush, open, or chew.
• Take your capsule or extended-release capsule medicine with a full glass of water.
• You may take the capsule or extended-release capsule medicine with food, milk, or antacids (such as Maalox® or Mylanta®) so it does not upset your stomach.
• Shake the oral liquid well before using.
• Measure each dose of the oral liquid carefully with a marked measuring spoon.

If a dose is missed:

• 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 Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Store at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Do not freeze the oral liquid.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

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 While Using This Medicine:

• 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.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice 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 notice these less serious side effects, talk with 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

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.