Do you have a severe joint pain, such as arthritis, or a problem that comes with swelling in your body? At such times, a doctor may prescribe you a painkiller. Indomethacin is a liquid medicine that is given for such severe to moderate pain and swelling conditions. Simply put, it works by controlling the process that causes swelling in your body. Let's learn exactly about this medicine, its side effects, and things to be careful about while using it.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
Before using Indomethacin, you should definitely tell your doctor if you have any of the following conditions, as this medication is not suitable for everyone.
| Do you have these conditions? |
|---|
| Bleeding disorder |
| Recently, that means having had heart bypass surgery (CABG) within two weeks. |
| Dehydration of the body. |
| Heart attack, heart disease, or heart failure. |
| High blood pressure. |
| Kidney or liver disease. |
| Lung diseases such as asthma. |
| Stomach ulcers or other problems with the stomach and intestines. |
| Taking medication to prevent or treat blood clots. |
| Frequent drinking or smoking. |
| Use of steroid medications such as Prednisone. |
| If you are pregnant, or expecting a baby. |
| Breastfeeding the baby. |
| Allergy to indomethacin or other medications, foods, or dyes. |
How should I use this medicine?
Be aware of these points when using this medicine.
- This is a liquid medicine (suspension) that you take by mouth. Take it exactly as prescribed by your doctor, at the right time.
- Shake the bottle well before use. This is mandatory.
- Use a special cup, spoon, or oral syringe to measure the medicine. Do not use household teaspoons , as they will not give an accurate measurement.
- This can be taken before or after meals. However, if you experience stomach upset or heartburn, it is best to take it with food.
- Continue taking the medicine until the doctor tells you to stop.
When you are prescribed this medicine, you will receive a special information leaflet (MedGuide) about it. Read it carefully each time you take the medicine. It contains important information.
Special information about children and adults
This medicine is usually given to children over 15 years of age in some special cases. But you should talk to your doctor about it. Also, the effects of this medicine may be a little stronger for people over 65 years of age. Therefore, they may be prescribed a lower dose.
What if I miss a dose of medication?
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never take two doses at the same time.
What if you take too much medicine? (Overdose)
If you think you have taken too much of this medicine, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) immediately . Or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.
Other medications that may interact with this medicine (Interactions)
Indomethacin is a medication that can interact with other medications, so it is very important to tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking.
| Do not take Indomethacin with this medicine. | |
|---|---|
| Cidofovir | Ketorolac |
| Diflunisal | Methotrexate |
| Pemetrexed | Triamterene |
| Be careful when taking Indomethacin with these things. | |
|---|---|
| Alcohol | Aspirin and similar drugs |
| Medicines that prevent blood clotting (e.g. Warfarin) | Medications for diabetes |
| Medications for high blood pressure | Other NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen and naproxen |
| Diuretics | Steroids such as Prednisone |
Things to be careful about when taking medicine
- Stomach bleeding: This medicine can cause stomach ulcers and bleeding. Sometimes this can happen without any symptoms. Smoking and drinking alcohol increase this risk. If you have stomach pain, vomiting, or passing something brown that looks like coffee grounds, or your stools are black and tarry, see your doctor immediately .
- Heart attack and stroke risk:
- Skin reactions: Some people may develop serious skin reactions several weeks after starting the medication. If you develop a red rash with fever, body aches, or blisters that seem to be peeling off your skin, or if your face or lips swell and your lymph nodes swell, tell your doctor right away.
- Pregnancy: If you are pregnant, talk to your doctor before taking this medicine. Taking this medicine, especially between the 20th and 30th weeks of pregnancy, may harm the unborn baby. Do not take this medicine after the 30th week of pregnancy .
- Drowsiness and dizziness: This medication may make you feel drowsy and dizzy. So don't do dangerous things like drive or operate machinery until you know how it affects you.
- Before taking Indomethacin, tell your doctor about all other medical conditions you have and all other medications you are taking.
- Take only the dose prescribed by your doctor, exactly as prescribed. Shake the bottle well before use.
- Be aware of serious side effects such as stomach bleeding and heart attack. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical advice immediately.
- Do not take other pain relievers (NSAIDs) such as Ibuprofen and Naproxen without consulting your doctor while taking this medicine.
- If you are pregnant, expecting a baby, or breastfeeding, be sure to talk to your doctor about taking this medication.
- If you have any questions or concerns about this medication, never be afraid to discuss it with your doctor.
Important: This medicine does not prevent heart attack or stroke. In fact, continued use may increase your risk, especially if you have heart disease. If you are taking aspirin to prevent heart attack, talk to your doctor before taking this medicine.
What are the possible side effects?
Like any medication, Indomethacin can cause side effects.
| Side effect | Description |
|---|---|
| Serious side effects that require immediate medical attention | |
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat. |
| Bleeding | Black or bloody stools, vomiting blood, red or dark brown urine, unusual bruising. |
| Symptoms of a heart attack | Tightness in the chest, shoulder, arm, nausea, difficulty breathing. |
| Symptoms of heart failure | Difficulty breathing, swelling of the ankles, feet, or hands, sudden weight gain. |
| Kidney damage | Decreased urine output, swelling of the ankles, hands, and feet. |
| Liver damage | Pain in the upper right side of the stomach, loss of appetite, yellowing of the eyes or skin. |
| Symptoms of a Stroke | Sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg, difficulty speaking, or walking. |
| Common side effects that should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Headache | Appetite |
| Nausea | Stomach discomfort |
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