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Common brand name: Indocin
Why is indomethacin prescribed?
Indomethacin is used to relieve pain, inflammation, swelling and stiffness
caused by certain types of arthritis and other medical problems.
How and when should indomethacin be used?
Indomethacin comes in capsules, controlled-release (long-acting) capsules,
liquid or suppositories. Regular capsules and liquid are usually taken two to
four times a day; controlled-release capsules are taken once or twice a day.
If you are prescribed controlled-release capsules, swallow the capsule whole;
do not open, crush, break or chew it.
If you are prescribed liquid, shake it well before each use. You can buy a
specially marked measuring spoon from your pharmacist to make sure the dose is
accurate. Take the liquid medicine with a full glass of water and remain in an
upright position (sitting or standing) for 15 to 30 minutes.
To insert a suppository into the rectum, follow these steps:
Wash your hands with soap and warm water. Remove the wrapper.
Dip the tip of the suppository in water.
Lie down on your left side and raise your right knee to your chest. (A
left-handed person should lie on the right side and raise the left knee).
Using your finger, insert the suppository into the rectum, about 1/2 to 1
inch in children and 1 inch in adults. Hold it in place for a few moments.
Stand up after about 15 minutes.
Wash your hands thoroughly and resume your normal activities.
Your prescription label tells you how much to take at each dose -- follow
these instructions carefully and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any
part that you do not understand. NEVER stop taking the medication without
consulting your doctor. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about
refilling your prescription.
Although your symptoms may improve after four to six days, you may have to
take this drug regularly for one month before feeling its full effect. If you
have persistent night pain or morning stiffness, take one of your doses at
bedtime. Take only the amount of medication that is prescribed. If you think you
need more, contact your doctor.
What special instructions should I follow while using this drug?
- Before indomethacin is prescribed, tell your health care provider about
any other medicines you may be taking, including vitamins, herbals, dietary
supplements, and other prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter)
medications and especially if you are taking: aspirin, anticoagulant
("blood thinner") medications, lithium, high blood pressure
medications, phenytoin (Dilantin), digoxin (Lanoxin), cyclosporine (Neoral,
Sandimmune, Gengraf) and probenecid (Benemid, Probalan).
- Do not take this medication if you are pregnant, think you might be
pregnant or are breastfeeding.
- Before indomethacin is prescribed, tell your health care provider if you
have any of the following conditions:
- Bad reaction to aspirin or arthritis medications
- Gastritis, ulcers, or bleeding from the stomach or rectum
- Diverticulitis
- Kidney, liver or heart disease
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Epilepsy or Parkinson's disease
- Mental disorders
- Nasal polyps
- Blood disorders
- Indomethacin can affect mental alertness and coordination. Do not drive a
car or operate machinery until you know how this medication affects you.
- Alcohol can increase the drowsiness caused by indomethacin. Do not drink
alcohol while taking this medication.
- Before any surgical or dental procedure, or emergency treatment, inform
your doctor or dentist that you are taking indomethacin.
- Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory and have your
blood pressure checked regularly so your response to this drug can be
monitored.
- Be sure that you always have enough of this medication on hand. Check your
supply before vacations, holidays, and other occasions when you may be
unable to obtain it.
What should I do if I forget to take a dose?
Take it as soon as you remember and take any remaining doses for that day at
evenly spaced intervals. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed
dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose. If
you miss more than one dose, contact your doctor.
What side effects can this drug cause? What can I do about them?
Although side effects from indomethacin are not common, these can occur:
- Nausea, vomiting, indigestion, heartburn, diarrhea, constipation or
stomach pain
Take the medication with food, or with antacids. Contact your doctor if
these symptoms persist or are severe.
When should I call my doctor?
- If you have persistent headaches (especially in the morning); dizziness;
drowsiness or ringing in the ears; visual disturbances; black stools or
abdominal pain; unusual bleeding or bruising; bloody vomit; skin rash;
itching; swelling of the hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs; chest tightness
or trouble breathing; decreased amount of urine; or yellowing of the skin or
eyes
- If you have any symptoms that are persistent or severe
- If you have any other symptoms that cause concern
What storage conditions are necessary for this drug?
- Keep indomethacin in its original container, tightly closed.
- Store it at room temperature and away from heat, direct light, and
moisture (do not store in bathroom).
- Keep indomethacin out of the reach of children.
- Never share your medication with anyone.
- Never take outdated medications. Some medication prescription labels list
an expiration date. If such a date is not on your medication label or if you
are unsure how old a medication is, call your pharmacy.
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