Indomethacin Side Effects

Indomethacin is an anti-inflammatory medication, that belongs to the group of non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDs that do not contain steroids. So, it is mainly used for relieving pain and inflammation caused by a number of conditions like arthritis. But, despite being an effective medication, its several adverse effects have been reported.

Indomethacin Uses
As has been mentioned already, it is a non steroidal anti-inflammatory medication and hence, it is widely used for reducing fever as well as pain and inflammation. It is especially used for relieving the pain, inflammation and stiffness caused by arthritis and gout. The drug works by inhibiting the production of a hormone like substance, known as prostaglandin, which is associated with the sensation of pain and other symptoms of trauma or physical injury. So, by reducing the production of prostaglandin, it provides relief in pain and swelling. Apart from fever, arthritis and gout, it is also used for spondylitis, tendinitis, ankylosing and burstitis.

Indomethacin Dangers
Over the years, several studies have been conducted to evaluate its side effects. On the basis of the findings of such studies, some commonly observed side effects of this medication are headache, sometimes accompanied by vertigo, dizziness, drowsiness, heartburn or indigestion, tinnitus or ringing in the ear and nausea and vomiting. Along with these, one can experience gastrointestinal side effects like diarrhea, constipation and abdominal pain. Sometimes, it can increase the risk of developing peptic ulcers and also lead to bleeding or perforation in the stomach or intestine.

But the more serious side effects are related to the cardiovascular system. Such side effects include peripheral edema, cerebral insufficiency and elevation of blood pressure. Several studies have pointed out, that the people taking non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like indomethacin for a long time, can have higher risk of stroke and heart attack than others. Apart from these, several hematologic side effects have also been reported. Such side effects can include leukopenia (reduction in the count of white blood cells), anemia, especially aplastic anemia and hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia (abnormal reduction in the number of platelets), etc. Some people may develop allergic reactions like skin rash, breathing difficulties and swelling and inflammation of the face or other parts of the body.

Sometimes, excessive or long-term use of this medication can cause some potentially life-threatening conditions like liver and kidney failure, fluid retention and congestive heart failure. Therefore, adequate care and precaution are required before taking indomethacin and other non steroidal anti-inflammatory medications. Use of certain medications while taking indomethacin can further increase the risk of developing the serious side effects. Therefore, it is very important to consult a physician before taking any non prescription drugs. Similarly, alcohol consumption while taking it can increase the risk of its side effects like stomach bleeding.

A patient should provide detailed information about his or her health condition and medical history to a physician before taking indomethacin. A history of heart attack or stroke, stomach ulcers, bleeding disorder, asthma and liver and kidney diseases may raise the risk of developing the serious side effects. Therefore, people having such health conditions should never take this medication without consulting an experienced physician. Also important is to seek immediate medical attention if you experience chest pain and shortness of breath or observe symptoms of stomach or intestinal bleeding, like black or bloody stool and vomiting blood.