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Indocin
Depletes
Prolonged use of Indocin can impact 3 essential nutrients.
Vitamin C
Indomethacin, a medication commonly used to treat inflammation and pain, can decrease the absorption of vitamin C. Vitamin C plays a vital role in immune function and the body's antioxidant defenses. To counteract this effect and maintain a healthy immune system and antioxidant capacity, vitamin C supplementation is recommended for individuals taking Indomethacin.
Replace with Vitamin C Ascorbic Acid (200 mg)
Research: Ogilvy CS, DuBois AB, Douglas JS. Effects of ascorbic acid and indomethacin on the airways of healthy male subjects with and...
Calcium
Studies suggest that indomethacin, a type of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), might decrease calcium levels in the body. To prevent potential calcium deficiency, supplementation should be considered for individuals taking indomethacin on a long-term basis.
Replace with Calcium Citrate (60 mg)
Research: Colette C, Aguirre L, Monnier L, Mimran A. The influence of indomethacin and possible role of prostaglandins on calcium...
Also Benefits From:
Omega 3
Omega-3 fatty acids offer promise for managing pain associated with osteoarthritis (OA). Research suggests they may work by reducing inflammation, a key contributor to OA pain and stiffness. Studies involving over 2000 patients with OA showed that omega-3 supplementation significantly lessened joint pain compared to a placebo. This improvement was accompanied by increased joint function, suggesting omega-3s might help people with OA move more easily and comfortably.
Research: Kuszewski JC, Wong RHX, Howe PRC. Fish oil supplementation reduces osteoarthritis-specific pain in older adults with...
Health Impact
Indocin-induced nutrient depletion can lead to a range of health problems
Scurvy & Fragile Blood Vessels
Modern case reports and re-analyses of classic scurvy trials show that vitamin C deficiency causes defective collagen and capillary integrity, with slow recovery of scar strength even after repletion if deficiency is prolonged.
Research: Gandhi M et al. Scurvy: rediscovering a forgotten disease. Clin Case Rep. 2023;11(6):e10296835.; Hujoel PP, Hujoel MLA....
Delayed Wound Healing & Fatigue
Systematic reviews report improved healing of chronic wounds with vitamin C supplementation in deficient or high-need states, supporting the clinical impact of inadequate ascorbate on tissue repair.
Research: Bechara N et al. The role of vitamin C in tissue repair and wound healing: a systematic review. Int Wound J....
Reduced Bone Density & Fractures
Systematic reviews indicate that increasing calcium intake yields only modest BMD gains and limited fracture risk reduction by itself, but combined calcium and vitamin D supplementation has shown benefits in specific high-risk groups such as postmenopausal women with osteoporosis.
Research: Tai V et al. Calcium intake and bone mineral density: systematic review and meta-analysis. BMJ. 2015;351:h4183.; Liu Y et...
Hypocalcemic Spasms & Tetany
Clinical endocrinology sources describe neuromuscular irritability as a classic manifestation of severe hypocalcemia due to inadequate intake, malabsorption or drug-induced changes in calcium metabolism.
Research: Bilezikian JP. Hypocalcemia. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2018;103(10):3827-3839.; Khan AA et al. Diagnosis and management of...
Side Effects
Common side effects of Indocin, some of which may be related to nutrient depletion
Review
Common side effects of Indocin (indomethacin) include:
- Stomach upset, heartburn, or abdominal pain
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Dizziness or headache
- Rash or itching
- Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
- Fluid retention or swelling
- Increased blood pressure
Rare but serious side effects may include:
- Gastrointestinal bleeding or ulcers
- Kidney problems
- Liver damage
- Allergic reactions, such as hives or swelling
- Severe skin reactions, such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome
It is important to talk to your doctor if you experience any severe side effects while taking Indocin.
- Stomach upset, heartburn, or abdominal pain
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Dizziness or headache
- Rash or itching
- Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
- Fluid retention or swelling
- Increased blood pressure
Rare but serious side effects may include:
- Gastrointestinal bleeding or ulcers
- Kidney problems
- Liver damage
- Allergic reactions, such as hives or swelling
- Severe skin reactions, such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome
It is important to talk to your doctor if you experience any severe side effects while taking Indocin.
Get Support
We've developed a formula to replenish the nutrients depleted by Indocin.
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Calcium Citrate
by Solaray
The Calcium supplement by Solaray is designed to support bone health and overall wellness by providing a high-quality, bioavailable form of calcium.
Strength: 200mg
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Calcium Citrate
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Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)
by Pure Encapsulations
Pure Encapsulations' Vitamin C supplement is a high-quality, hypoallergenic product designed to support immune function, collagen production, and antioxidant protection.
Strength: 200 mcg
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Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)
Expert Research
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