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Acemetacin

Published: July 26, 2026Updated: August 24, 2026

Acemetacin is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to treat pain and inflammation associated with rheumatic diseases and musculoskeletal conditions. It is commonly prescribed for conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and other inflammatory disorders.

Quick summary

Acemetacin is an NSAID used to reduce pain, inflammation, and fever in patients with rheumatic and musculoskeletal conditions.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 24, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

ATC
M01AB11
RxNorm
16695
Generic
Acemetacin
Class
atc-m01
Brands
—
Availability
rx
Lactation
unknown
Routes
oral
Forms
capsule
Regions
US, EU, CN, JP
Monitoring
—

This page is for informational purposes only.

Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.

Dosage and administration

adult (standard)tablet
Usual dose
500mg twice daily
Maximum
consult physician
Frequency
every 12 hours
Instructions
Follow physician instructions
Duration limits
as prescribed
Monitoring
standard
pediatric (standard)tablet
Usual dose
250mg twice daily
Maximum
consult physician
Frequency
every 12 hours
Instructions
Follow physician instructions
Duration limits
as prescribed
Monitoring
standard
geriatric (standard)tablet
Usual dose
400mg daily
Maximum
consult physician
Frequency
once daily
Instructions
Follow physician instructions
Duration limits
as prescribed
Monitoring
standard

Overdose information

Important overdose information
Toxic dose: Consult local poison control center for specific information
Chronic overdose: Varies by patient
Immediate actions
Call poison control center: 1-800-222-1222
Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222

Special Populations

8 groups
⚠

pregnancy

first trimester
caution
FDA Category
C
Dose Adjustment

avoid if possible

Key Recommendations

avoid use during pregnancy unless benefits significantly outweigh risks

Monitor

regular prenatal monitoring

Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.

✗

pregnancy

third trimester
unsafe
FDA Category
D
Dose Adjustment

contraindicated

Key Recommendations

do not use in third trimester

Monitor

not applicable

Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.

⚠

lactation

breastfeeding
caution
FDA Category
N
Dose Adjustment

use with caution

Key Recommendations

avoid or discontinue breastfeeding during treatment

Monitor

monitor infant for adverse effects

Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.

⚠

geriatric

elderly
caution
FDA Category
N
Dose Adjustment

reduce dose, start with lowest effective dose

Key Recommendations

use lowest effective dose for shortest duration, monitor for GI bleeding and renal function

Monitor

regular monitoring of renal function, CBC, and GI symptoms

Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.

⚠

renal_impairment

mild to moderate
caution
FDA Category
N
Dose Adjustment

reduce dose by 25-50%

Key Recommendations

use with caution, monitor renal function closely

Monitor

regular renal function monitoring (creatinine, BUN)

Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.

✗

renal_impairment

severe
unsafe
FDA Category
N
Dose Adjustment

avoid

Key Recommendations

contraindicated in severe renal impairment

Monitor

not applicable

Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.

⚠

hepatic_impairment

mild to moderate
caution
FDA Category
N
Dose Adjustment

reduce dose, monitor liver function

Key Recommendations

use with caution, may require dose reduction

Monitor

regular liver function tests (AST, ALT, bilirubin)

Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.

✗

pediatric_age

children adolescents
unsafe
FDA Category
N
Dose Adjustment

not recommended

Key Recommendations

not approved for use in children and adolescents

Monitor

not applicable

Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.

Statistics and clinical data

prescribingFDA
2023

Commonly prescribed since

Value:1980s

General prescribing information

drug_classWHO
2023

Drug class

Value:NSAID (COX inhibitor, prodrug of indomethacin)

Drug class information

usageMedical guidelines
2023

Common uses

Value:Pain relief, inflammation, arthritis

Common therapeutic uses

mechanismPharmacological databases
2023

Mechanism of action

Value:Pro-drug converted to indomethacin, inhibits COX enzymes

Pharmacological mechanism

Acemetacin is used to treat osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and other inflammatory conditions causing pain and swelling of joints and soft tissues.

Acemetacin works by inhibiting cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, which reduces the production of prostaglandins—chemicals involved in inflammation, pain, and fever.

Like other NSAIDs, Acemetacin may cause gastrointestinal side effects, kidney problems, or cardiovascular risks. It should be used with caution in patients with a history of ulcers, heart disease, or kidney impairment. Use during pregnancy should be avoided, particularly in the third trimester.

Contraindications

Conditions and patient states where this medication should be avoided or used with caution.

Do not use (1)

ABSOLUTEhypersensitivity

Known allergy to this medication or its components

Use caution (1)

RELATIVEpregnancy

Consult healthcare provider for benefits vs risks assessment

Official drug label

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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 24, 2026. · Read our editorial policy