Indomethacin is a widely used drug, since it is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory that inhibits the production of prostaglandin, that is, it is used for the relief of pain, fever and fights inflammation very effectively. Next, in greater detail and precision, we will tell you what Indomethacin is for.
What is Indomethacin for?
In summary, Indomethocin is a class of non-steroidal drug (derived from methylated indole) and related to diclofenac (a drug also inhibitory in nature). What inhibits Indomethacin is the production of prostaglandin, linked to the functioning of the nervous system, among other parts of the body. So it is clear that the effects of such a drug will be the relief of pain, fever (it is antipyretic) and inflammation. It is usually used in patients with different arthritis, bursitis, tendonitis, neuralgia, recurrent headaches, etc.
The inhibition of the synthesis of prostaglandins naturally leads to a reduction in the consequences, both positive and negative, that these lipid substances possess in the body. For example, one by ingesting Indomethacin contracts the inflammatory effect that the body usually develops, both in cases of arthritis and in general inflammatory reactions. Likewise, we can add the analgesic effect, that is, the lack or reduction of pain that usually occurs concomitantly to the anti-inflammatory trait. Logically, these inhibitions can have adverse effects that will be developed later.
The usual excipients in this drug are the following:
- Cornstarch.
- Magnesium stearate.
- Colloidal silica.
- Gelatin.
- Cellulose powder.
- Quinoline Yellow.
- Titanium dioxide.
- Solid semi-synthetic glycerides in suppositories.
How is Indomethocin used?
Indomethacin comes as regular capsules, both slow-release (long-acting) and suspension to take by mouth, and also as a rectal suppository. Regular capsules, suppositories, and liquid suspension are used two to four times a day. The slow-release capsules are taken one to two times a day. Regular, slow-release, and suspension should be taken with food or immediately after eating a meal. It is important to use this medicine on a regular schedule, not trying to increase the dose or, in the event of brief forgetfulness, trying to make up doses. Likewise, it is important to follow the instructions and above all be guided by what the pharmacist or the trusted doctor himself says.
Next we will talk a little about the particular use according to how Indomethocin is consumed:
- The slow-release capsules should be taken whole and not mixed with drinks or solid foods at the time of ingestion.
- The suspensions must be shaken before consuming the medicine so that the medicine is mixed in a homogeneous way.
In the case of Indomethocin suppositories:
- Remove the wrap.
- Dip the tip of the suppository in water.
- Lie on your left side and raise your knee to your chest (a left-handed person should do it the other way around).
- Using your finger, insert the one-inch suppository and hold it in the rectum for a moment.
- After fifteen minutes you can get up. Wash your hands well and continue your normal activities.
- Try to keep the suppository in place and avoid having a bowel movement after at least an hour after placing the suppository.
When consuming Indomethocin, some precautions must be taken into account:
- Before starting to consume it, you must inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to any of the components of Indomethocin.
- Communicate what medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, or herbal products you are taking or plan to take.
- Report if you have asthma, if you are a person with frequent runny nose, seizures, heart failure, mental, liver or kidney disease.
- Communicate if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding. If you are pregnant and start taking Indomethocin, it is important to call your doctor immediately.
- If you are going to undergo any surgical intervention, even if it is dental, it is good to advise that you are consuming Indomethocin.
- Indomethocin frequently generates drowsiness, so it is recommended, if you started taking it recently, not drive or control heavy machinery. At least until the immediate somatic effects of the drug are known.
- If you drink alcohol, you’d better discuss it with your doctor as it can make the side effects of Indomethocin worse.
However, it is important that you not only have to take certain precautions when taking Indomethocin, but that side effects can also occur. Below we will detail some:
- Headache.
- Dizziness
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea.
- Constipation.
- Irritation of the rectum.
- Sensation or need to constantly empty the intestines.
- Ringing in the ears
There are side effects of a more serious nature, which means that before their onset, a doctor should be called immediately.
- Unexplained weight gain.
- Fever.
- Shortness of breath or shortness of breath.
- Swelling of the abdomen, feet, ankles, or legs.
- Blisters
- Rash.
- Pruritus (itching).
- Hives
- Swelling of the eyes, lips, tongue, throat, arms, or hands.
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing.
- Ronquera.
- Pallor.
- Faster than normal heart rate.
- Excessive tiredness
- Unusual bleeding or bruising.
- Lack of energy.
- Stomach ache.
- Loss of appetite
- Pain in the upper abdomen.
- Flu-like symptoms, yellowing of the skin and eyes, dark, discolored or bloody urine, back pain, difficulty urinating, and blurred vision.
The ingestion of this medicine should not necessarily be followed by any special diet. The medicine, on the other hand, should be kept tightly closed, in a warm place and out of the reach of children. If you plan to dispose of the medicine, you must do so according to a protocol, since pets and children can be in danger at their fingertips.
Dr. Samantha Robson ( CRN: 0510146-5) is a nutritionist and website content reviewer related to her area of expertise. With a postgraduate degree in Nutrition from The University of Arizona, she is a specialist in Sports Nutrition from Oxford University and is also a member of the International Society of Sports Nutrition.