What Is It?: Indomethacin is used to relieve moderate to severe pain, tenderness, swelling, and stiffness caused by osteoarthritis (arthritis caused by a breakdown of the lining of the joints), rheumatoid arthritis (arthritis caused by swelling of the lining of the joints), and ankylosing spondylitis (arthritis that mainly affects the spine). Indomethacin is also used to treat pain in the shoulder caused by bursitis (inflammation of a fluid-filled sac in the shoulder joint) and tendinitis (inflammation of the tissue that connects muscle to bone). Indomethacin immediate-release capsules, suspension (liquid) and suppositories are also used to treat acute gouty arthritis (attacks of severe joint pain and swelling caused by a build-up of certain substances in the joints). Indomethacin is in a class of medications called NSAIDs. It works by stopping the body’s production of a substance that causes pain, fever, and inflammation.

How To Use: Indomethacin comes as a capsule, an extended-release (long-acting) capsule, and a suspension to take by mouth and as a suppository to be used rectally. Indomethacin capsules, liquid, and suppositories usually are taken two to four times a day. Extended-release capsules are usually taken one or two times a day. Indomethacin capsules, extended release capsules, and suspension should be taken with food, immediately after meals, or with antacids. Take indomethacin at around the same times every day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take indomethacin exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

Possible Side Effects: Indomethacin may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away: headache; dizziness;  vomiting; diarrhea; constipation; irritation of the rectum; constant feeling of the need to empty the bowel; ringing in the ears. Some side effects can be serious. If you experience any of the following symptoms or those mentioned in the IMPORTANT WARNING section; call your doctor immediately. Do not take any more indomethacin until you speak to your doctor: unexplained weight gain;  fever; blisters; rash; itching; hives; swelling of the eyes, face, tongue, lips, throat, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs; difficulty breathing or swallowing; hoarseness; pale skin; fast heartbeat; excessive tiredness; unusual bleeding or bruising; lack of energy; upset stomach; loss of appetite; pain in the upper right part of the stomach; flu-like symptoms; yellowing of the skin or eyes; cloudy; discolored; or bloody urine; back pain; difficult or painful urination; blurred vision or other problems with sight

Storage:  Keep in the original container. Keep out of the reach of children and pets. Capsules and tablets may be stored at room temperature. Some liquids should be stored in the refrigerator (see the prescription label.)  Store all medicines away from excess heat and moisture. Do NOT store in the bathroom.

Note: If you miss a dose take it as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with the regular schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed one.