Indomethacin
Indocin (indomethacin) is a prescription nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to reduce pain, inflammation, and stiffness caused by various conditions including arthritis, gout, and bursitis. It works by blocking enzymes in the body that produce prostaglandins, substances that cause pain and swelling.
Indocin is an NSAID prescription medication used to treat pain and inflammation from arthritis, gout, and related conditions.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 203365
- Generic
- Indocin
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- 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.
Indocin is used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, acute gouty arthritis, bursitis, and tendonitis. It may also be used for mild to moderate pain and fever not responding to other therapies.
Indocin belongs to the NSAID class and works by inhibiting cyclooxygenase (COX-1 and COX-2) enzymes, which reduces the production of prostaglandins that cause inflammation, pain, and fever in the body.
Indocin carries a black box warning for cardiovascular and gastrointestinal risks, including increased risk of heart attack, stroke, and stomach ulcers/bleeding. It should not be used in late pregnancy. Common side effects include headache, dizziness, and stomach upset. Always take with food or milk to reduce stomach irritation.
Official drug label
WellAlly may earn a referral fee from linked resources at no extra cost to you. Editorial content is never influenced by commercial relationships.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
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 July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy