Sulindac

Information about Sulindac[edit]

Sulindac

Sulindac is a commonly used nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) that is available by prescription only and used predominantly to treat chronic arthritis.

Liver safety of Sulindac[edit]

Sulidac is a rare, but well established cause of idiosyncratic, clinically apparent drug induced liver disease.

Mechanism of action of Sulindac[edit]

Sulindac (sul' in dak) is a member of the indene acetic acid class of NSAIDs and is chemically related to indomethacin. Like other NSAIDs, sulindac acts through inhibition of tissue cyclooxygenases (Cox-1 and Cox-2) which leads to a decrease in synthesis of proinflammatory prostaglandins, potent mediators of pain and inflammation. Sulindac has analgesic as well as antipyretic and antiinflammatory activities.

FDA approval information for Sulindac[edit]

Sulindac was approved for use in chronic arthritis in the United States in 1978 and its indications have been expanded since.

Current indications include acute and chronic use for osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, anklyosing spondylitis, acute gouty arthritis and for acute bursitis.

When given chronically, sulindac has also been shown to decrease adenoma formation in persons with familial adenomatous polyposis.

Generic formulations are available (150 and 200 mg) and specific commercial names include Clinoril (100, 150, 200 mg). The recommended dose in adults is 150 to 200 mg twice daily.

Side effects of Sulindac[edit]

As with other NSAIDs, sulindac is generally well tolerated, but side effects can include headache, dizziness, somnolence, gastrointestinal upset, nausea, abdominal discomfort, diarrhea, peripheral edema and hypersensitivity reactions.

Nonsteroidal Antiinflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

Acetaminophen, Celecoxib, Diclofenac, Diflunisal, Etodolac, Fenoprofen, Flurbiprofen, Ibuprofen, Indomethacin, Ketoprofen, Ketorolac, Mefenamic Acid, Meloxicam, Nabumetone, Naproxen, Nimesulide, Oxaprozin, Phenylbutazone, Piroxicam, Rofecoxib, Sulindac, Tolmetin