Indomethacin dosage: What you need to know
If you’ve been prescribed indomethacin, you probably wonder how much to take and when. Indomethacin is a strong NSAID used for arthritis, gout attacks, and certain types of pain. Getting the dose right helps control symptoms while keeping stomach upset and other side effects in check.
Typical adult dosing
For most adults, doctors start with 25 mg to 50 mg two or three times a day. The exact amount depends on what you’re treating. A gout flare might need 50 mg every four hours (up to 200 mg per day) for a short burst, while chronic arthritis often stays at the lower end.
Take each tablet with food or milk – it reduces stomach irritation. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it’s almost time for your next one; then just skip the missed pill and continue as usual.
Pediatric dosing and special groups
Kids don’t get the same amount as adults. Doctors usually calculate the dose by weight: about 0.1 mg per kilogram of body weight, given two or three times daily. Because children’s stomachs are more sensitive, doctors keep the treatment period short.
Elderly patients often need a lower start – maybe 12.5 mg twice a day – because their kidneys clear the drug slower. If you have kidney or liver problems, your doctor will adjust the dose further to avoid buildup.
How to take indomethacin safely
Here are practical steps that make a difference:
- Never crush or chew extended‑release tablets. Doing so releases all the drug at once and can harm your gut.
- Stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water helps your kidneys flush out waste.
- Avoid alcohol and other NSAIDs. Mixing them raises the risk of bleeding and ulcer formation.
- Watch for warning signs. Sudden stomach pain, black stools, or ringing in the ears mean you should call a doctor right away.
If you need to be on indomethacin for more than two weeks, ask your doctor about a protective medicine like a proton‑pump inhibitor (omeprazole) to guard your stomach lining.
Common side effects and when to stop
The most frequent issues are upset stomach, heartburn, and mild headache. These often ease up after the first few days. More serious problems – high blood pressure spikes, kidney trouble, or severe rash – require immediate medical attention.
When you finish a course, don’t just stop abruptly if you’ve been on it for weeks; tapering down under doctor supervision can prevent rebound pain.
Bottom line
Indomethacin works best when the dose matches your condition, body size, and health status. Stick to food, stay clear of alcohol, and keep an eye on any gut or kidney symptoms. If you’re unsure about how many pills you should take, a quick call to your pharmacist can save you from a lot of trouble.
