Indomethacin belongs to the class of medications known as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs). It works by reducing pain, swelling, and inflammation. Indomethacin is used for the relief of mild to moderately severe pain accompanied by inflammation. It can be used for people with conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and gout.

Your doctor may choose to prescribe this medication for conditions other than the ones listed here. If you're unsure why you are taking this medication, contact your doctor.

Dosage

When used on a regular basis, the recommended adult starting dose of indomethacin capsules is 25 mg two or three times a day. Your doctor will gradually increase the dose until the best results are achieved with the least amount of side effects. The maximum recommended daily dose of indomethacin is 200 mg. Indomethacin should always be taken with food or antacids to reduce stomach upset.

The recommended dose of indomethacin suppositories is 100 mg to 200 mg daily. Doses higher than 100 mg must be given in two divided doses.

Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are using the medication without consulting your doctor.

If you miss a dose

It is very important that this medication be taken on a regular schedule exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose of this medication take it as soon as you remember it. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and carry on with your regular schedule. Do not double-up on doses.

Precautions

Indomethacin should not be taken by anyone who:

• currently has or recently had inflammatory diseases of the stomach and intestines such as stomach or intestinal ulcer or ulcerative colitis
• is currently taking other NSAIDs
• is or may be allergic to indomethacin or any of the ingredients of the medication has had an allergic reaction to ASA or other anti-inflammatory medications

Suppositories should not be used by anyone who:

• has any inflammatory lesions of the rectum or anus
• has recently had rectal or anal bleeding
• Indomethacin is not safe for use by children.