Indometacin

Indometacin (or indomethacin) is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) commonly used as a prescription medication to reduce fever, pain, stiffness, and swelling from inflammation. It works by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins, substances in the body that cause inflammation. This medication is known to be effective in closing a patent ductus arteriosus in premature infants.

Pharmacology

Indometacin works by inhibiting the enzyme cyclooxygenase (COX), which is involved in the production of prostaglandins. By reducing the levels of prostaglandins, indometacin can help to reduce inflammation and pain.

Medical uses

Indometacin is used for the treatment of moderate to severe osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. It is also used to treat acute gout attacks and to prevent pain from various types of surgery. In addition, indometacin is used off-label for the treatment of patent ductus arteriosus in premature infants.

Side effects

Common side effects of indometacin include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and dizziness. Serious side effects may include gastrointestinal bleeding, ulceration, and perforation. Indometacin can also cause kidney damage, liver damage, and blood disorders.

Contraindications

Indometacin is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to it or other NSAIDs, and in patients with active peptic ulcer disease, recent gastrointestinal bleeding or perforation, severe heart failure, or moderate to severe renal impairment.

Interactions

Indometacin may interact with other medications, including anticoagulants, antiplatelet drugs, corticosteroids, lithium, and methotrexate.

See also

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug
• Cyclooxygenase
• Prostaglandin