Indomethacin
Indomethacin is NSAID (non-steroidal antinfalmmatory drug). Indomethacin is usually regarded as the father figure in the family of non steroidal agents. It relieves pain, reduces inflammation and fever. it, introduced in 1963, is a methylated indole derivative. Indomethacin is slightly more toxic but in certain circumstances more effective than aspirin. Indomethacin is prepared by chemical synthesis. Indomethacin is administered orally.
Primary Characteristics
It is of Synthetic origin and belongs to Indole Acetic Acid.
It belongs to Cyclo-oxygenase inhibitor pharmacological group on the basis of mechanism of action. It is also classified under Analgesics and Anti-inflammatory Agents .
Molecular Weight: 357.8 · pKa: 4.5 · Solubility in Water: Insoluble · Solubility in Alcohol: 1 in 50 · Non-proprietary name: Indomethacin.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Indomethacin has an oral bioavailability is 50% (±50%), pre-systemic (first-pass) metabolism accounts for 45.5% (±4.5%).
Distribution: Indomethacin has a volume of distribution is 1 l/kg. plasma protein binding is 90-99%.
Elimination: it is metabolised via Hepatic(extensive), plasma half-life is 1-16 hr, renal excretion is 60%.
Advertisement
Indications
Indomethacin is primarily indicated in conditions like Acute gout, Ankylosing spondylitis, Dysmenorrhoea, Gout, Musculoskeletal disorders, Osteoarthritis, Patency of ductus arteriosus, Rheumatoid arthritis.
Indomethacin is also indicated for secondary conditions like Bone pain, Pleurisy, Rheumatic diseases.
Contraindications
Indomethacin is contraindicated in conditions like Heart failure, Hypertension, Peptic ulcer, Indigestion, Rectal bleeding.
Dosage
Indomethacin's dosage details are as follows:
| Dose | Single Dose | Frequency | Route | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adult Dosage | ||||
| 125 mg | 125 mg | — | PO | in divided doses with food. |
| Paediatric Dosage (20kg) | ||||
| 1 mg/kg | 1 mg/kg | Every 8h | Oral | Recommended for 5-12 Years of Children |
| Neonatal Dosage (3kg) | ||||
| 0.4 mg/kg | 0.4 mg/kg | Every 12h | Intravenous | Dose for closure of ductus arteriosus |
Drug Interactions
Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.
Side Effects
Indomethacin in overdosage may give rise to further complications which include Fluid retension , Overt signs of heart failure , Non-specific bloating , Malaise .
Indomethacin produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Hyperkalemia , Thrombocytopenia , GI bleeding, Hepatitis , Leucopenia . Careful monitoring is needed with proper medical management.
The signs and symptoms that are produced after acute overdosage of Indomethacin are Nausea, Dizziness, Convulsions , Paresthesia, Vomiting, Mental confusion, Disorientation , Headache, Lethargy, Numbness .
Indomethacin is known to cause more or less tolerable side effects which are usually transient. These include Abdominal discomfort, Abdominal pain, Anorexia , Confusion, Dizziness, Fatigue, Headache, Nausea, Somnolence , Tinnitus.
Warnings / Precautions
Interference in Pathology
Indomethacin may interfere in the diagnosis of Complete blood cell count.
Available Brands
Click on a strength to view available brands.
Single Ingredient
Storage Conditions
Drug Classification
- 1.2.1.3 — Non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)