Indomethacin: Price, Dosage & Where to Buy

Indomethacin is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to relieve pain and inflammation in arthritis, including moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis. Its extended-release capsules are indicated for rheumatoid arthritis, including acute flares of chronic disease, and it is a medicine that requires a prescription in the United Kingdom.

Indomethacin belongs to the NSAID class of medicines. These medicines reduce the activity of enzymes called cyclo-oxygenases, which help the body produce substances called prostaglandins. Prostaglandins contribute to pain and inflammation, so reducing their production can ease these symptoms.

They also help protect the stomach lining and support kidney function. Reducing these protective effects helps explain why NSAIDs can cause stomach problems and affect the kidneys.

Indomethacin extended-release capsules are indicated for moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis, including acute flares of an established condition. They are also indicated for moderate to severe ankylosing spondylitis and osteoarthritis. These conditions can involve painful, stiff or inflamed joints.

Another listed use is acute painful shoulder caused by bursitis, inflammation of a fluid-filled cushioning sac, and/or tendinitis, inflammation of a tendon. Treatment is intended to reduce pain and inflammation associated with these conditions.

The label lists oral capsules of 25 mg and 50 mg, extended-release oral capsules of 75 mg, rectal suppositories of 50 mg, oral suspension of 25 mg/5 mL, and intravenous injection powder for solution of 1 mg/mL. The label lists an extended-release 75 mg capsule daily for moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis and osteoarthritis. The label lists an extended-release 75 mg capsule once or twice daily for acute painful shoulder due to bursitis and/or tendinitis.

The label lists immediate-release capsules of 25 mg twice or three times daily for the arthritis indications, with adjustment according to response and tolerability. The label lists a maximum total daily dose of 200 mg.

The label lists a usual course of therapy of 7 to 14 days for acute painful shoulder. The label emphasises the lowest effective dosage for the shortest duration consistent with treatment goals, with individual adjustment after assessment of response.

The label specifies storage of extended-release capsules at 20° to 25°C and protection from moisture. Keep the medicine in its original container and out of the reach of children.

A missed dose may reduce symptom relief. General pharmacy advice is to resume the prescribed schedule rather than double a dose to make up for an omission.

If the next dose is nearly due, the missed dose is usually omitted. A pharmacist can clarify the appropriate approach for the particular formulation and prescribed schedule.

Indomethacin can affect fetal kidney function, reducing amniotic fluid and sometimes causing kidney impairment in the newborn. The label limits dose and duration between about 20 and 30 weeks of pregnancy and advises avoiding use at about 30 weeks and later because it can also prematurely close a fetal blood vessel called the ductus arteriosus.

Evidence about other risks earlier in pregnancy is inconclusive. The label does not specify breastfeeding information; discuss breastfeeding with a doctor or pharmacist.