Indometacin
Indometacin
Indometacin (pronounced in-doh-MET-uh-sin), also known as indomethacin, is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) commonly used as a prescription medication to reduce fever, pain, stiffness, and swelling. It works by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins, substances in the body that cause inflammation and pain.
Etymology
The term "Indometacin" is derived from the compounds involved in its chemical structure: indole, acetic acid, and amine. It was first synthesized in the 1960s by the pharmaceutical company Merck Sharp & Dohme.
Usage
Indometacin is used to treat moderate to severe osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, gouty arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. It is also used to treat shoulder pain caused by bursitis or tendinitis. Extended-release indometacin and regular indometacin are not equivalent on a milligram-per-milligram basis.
Side Effects
Like other NSAIDs, indometacin can cause various side effects. These may include upset stomach, heartburn, headache, dizziness, and drowsiness. More serious side effects can include high blood pressure, heart failure, kidney problems, and liver problems.
Related Terms
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)
- Osteoarthritis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Gouty arthritis
- Ankylosing spondylitis
- Bursitis
- Tendinitis
- Prostaglandins
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Indometacin
- Wikipedia's article - Indometacin
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