About indometacin
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)
Used for
- Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis
- Acute gouty arthritis
- Shoulder bursitis or tendinitis
Usual adult dose
Usually 25 mg two or three times daily; dose varies by condition and response.
Usual dose in children
Juvenile arthritis: typically 1–2 mg/kg/day in divided doses; specialist-directed, maximum 4 mg/kg/day or 200 mg.
Common side effects
- Nausea, indigestion, or abdominal pain
- Headache or dizziness
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Swelling or increased blood pressure
Important warnings
- Can cause stomach ulcers, bleeding, or perforation.
- May increase risks of heart attack and stroke.
- Can harm kidneys, especially with dehydration or kidney disease.
- Avoid during pregnancy from 20 weeks unless specifically directed; avoid from 30 weeks.
Pregnancy
Avoid from 20 weeks unless necessary; use from 30 weeks can cause serious fetal harm.
Breastfeeding
Small amounts may enter breast milk; seek clinician guidance, especially for newborn or premature infants.
Interactions
- Blood thinners and antiplatelet medicines increase bleeding risk.
- Other NSAIDs increase stomach and kidney harms.
- ACE inhibitors, ARBs, and diuretics may worsen kidney function.
- Lithium or methotrexate levels may rise.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.