Indomethacin — what it is and when it's used

Indomethacin is a strong nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). Doctors prescribe it for pain and inflammation from conditions like arthritis, gout flares, and certain injuries. Neonatal intensive care teams also use it to help close a patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) in newborns. Because it affects stomach, kidney, and heart systems, you should treat it with respect.

How people usually take indomethacin

Most adults take indomethacin by mouth in small divided doses — commonly 25–50 mg two or three times a day for immediate-release forms. There are slow-release versions that you might take once or twice daily. Your doctor will pick the lowest dose that controls symptoms and shorten treatment time when possible. If you have trouble swallowing, suppositories are an option. For newborns or very specific hospital uses, doctors give indomethacin under close monitoring — don’t try to dose neonatal treatments yourself.

Take pills with food or milk to lower stomach upset. Avoid taking it on an empty stomach. If you miss a dose, take it when you remember unless it's almost time for the next dose — don’t double up.

Side effects, warnings, and who should be cautious

The most common problems are stomach pain, nausea, indigestion, heartburn, or diarrhea. Serious issues include stomach ulcers, bleeding, reduced kidney function, and increased blood pressure. Indomethacin can also cause headaches, dizziness, or confusion, especially in older adults.

Do not take indomethacin if you have active peptic ulcer disease, severe kidney disease, a known allergy to NSAIDs, or during the last trimester of pregnancy (it can affect the baby’s circulation). Talk with your doctor before using it if you have heart disease, high blood pressure, or asthma. Older adults often need lower doses and closer checks.

Indomethacin interacts with several drugs: blood thinners (warfarin), some antidepressants (SSRIs), ACE inhibitors or ARBs, diuretics, lithium, and methotrexate. Mixing these can raise risks for bleeding, kidney problems, or dangerous blood levels. Always list all your medications to your prescriber and pharmacist.

Watch for warning signs that need urgent care: black or bloody stools, severe stomach pain, sudden chest pain or shortness of breath, difficulty speaking, sudden weakness, swelling in the legs, or very low urine output. If any of these occur, stop the drug and get help.

Practical tips: use the smallest dose that works, take with food, avoid alcohol, and schedule kidney and blood-pressure checks if you’ll use indomethacin for more than a short course. If you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or treating a baby, ask a specialist — dosing and risks change a lot in those situations.

If you have questions about whether indomethacin is right for you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. They can help weigh benefits and risks based on your health and other medicines.