Indomethacin (Oral)
Generic Details
Generic Name
Indomethacin-oral
Other Names
- Indocin
Drug Class
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)
Chemical Formula
C19H16ClNO4
Molecular Weight
357.79 g/mol
Mechanism of Action
- Inhibits the enzyme cyclooxygenase, leading to decreased prostaglandin synthesis
Indications
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Osteoarthritis
- Ankylosing spondylitis
- Acute gouty arthritis
- Acute shoulder tendinitis/bursitis
Common Dosage Forms
- Capsules
- Extended-release capsules
- Oral suspension
Typical Dosage
- 25-50 mg two to three times a day
Pediatric Dosage
- Not established
Geriatric Dosage
- Lower initial dose with close monitoring
Side Effects
- Gastric ulcers
- Abdominal pain
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Dizziness
Contraindications
- History of allergic reactions to NSAIDs
- Active peptic ulcer disease
- Severe heart failure
Pregnancy Category
- Category C - May be used if benefits outweigh risks
Lactation Safety
- Use with caution, excreted in breast milk
Drug Interactions
- Increased risk of bleeding with anticoagulants
- Decreased effectiveness of antihypertensives
Overdose Symptoms
- Severe headache
- Confusion
- Blurred vision
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Seizures
Antidote for Overdose
- Gastric lavage, activated charcoal
Storage Conditions
- Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat
Pharmacokinetics
- Absorption: Rapidly and completely absorbed after oral administration
- Distribution: Highly protein-bound, enters synovial fluid
- Metabolism: Hepatic via CYP enzymes
- Excretion: Primarily in urine
Precautions
- Monitor for signs of gastrointestinal bleeding
- Assess renal function periodically
Warnings
- Increased risk of cardiovascular events
- May cause fluid retention and edema
Others
- Avoid concurrent use of other NSAIDs