Medications and Drugs

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GENERIC NAME: INDOMETHACIN - ORAL LIQUID (in-doh-METH-uh-sin)

BRAND NAME(S): Indocin

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: Indomethacin treats the pain, swelling and stiffness associated with arthritis, gout, bursitis or tendonitis.

HOW TO USE: Shake well before using. Take with food or immediately after meals to prevent stomach upset. Take with a full glass (8 oz or 240 ml) of water unless your doctor directs you otherwise. Do not lie down for at least 30 minutes after taking this drug.

SIDE EFFECTS: Stomach upset is the most common side effect. If this persists or becomes severe, notify your doctor. Headache, heartburn, lightheadedness, drowsiness, loss of appetite, dizziness, bloating, constipation, diarrhea, or nervousness may occur as your body adjusts to this medication. Notify your doctor promptly if you develop any of the following effects while taking this medication: vision changes, ringing in ears/loss of hearing. If you notice any of the following unlikely but very serious side effects, stop taking this drug and consult your doctor or pharmacist immediately: black stools, persistent stomach/ abdominal pain, vomit that looks like coffee grounds. An allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history especially of: liver or kidney disease, blood disorders, ulcers, heart disease, alcohol use, high blood pressure, eye disease, mental/mood disturbances, brain diseases (such as Parkinson's disease), asthma, nasal polyps, any allergies - especially aspirin/NSAID allergy (e.g., ibuprofen, celecoxib). Use caution when performing tasks requiring alertness. Limit alcohol intake as it may intensify the drowsiness effect of this medication. This medicine may cause stomach bleeding. Daily use of alcohol, especially when combined with this medicine, may increase your risk for stomach bleeding. Check with your doctor or pharmacist for more information. Do not take aspirin without consulting your doctor. Check the ingredients of any nonprescription medication you may be taking since many cough-and-cold formulas contain aspirin. Infrequently, this medication may increase the skin's sensitivity to sunlight. If this happens to you, avoid prolonged sun exposure, wear protective clothing and use a sunscreen. Avoid sunlamps. Caution is advised when this drug is used in the elderly. This medication should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Use of this drug during the last 6 months of pregnancy is not recommended. This drug is excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.