Indomethacin is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is commonly used to reduce inflammation and pain in conditions such as arthritis, gout, bursitis, and tendonitis. It works by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins, which are chemicals in the body that cause inflammation and pain. Indomethacin is available in various forms, including capsules, suppositories, and a liquid solution. It is usually taken orally but can also be administered topically in certain cases. Like all NSAIDs, Indomethacin can have side effects such as stomach irritation, ulcers, and an increased risk of cardiovascular events, so it should be used with caution and under the supervision of a healthcare provider.
Indomethacin is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is commonly used to reduce inflammation and pain in conditions such as arthritis, gout, bursitis, and tendonitis. It works by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins, which are chemicals in the body that cause inflammation and pain. Indomethacin is available in various forms, including capsules, suppositories, and a liquid solution. It is usually taken orally but can also be administered topically in certain cases. Like all NSAIDs, Indomethacin can have side effects such as stomach irritation, ulcers, and an increased risk of cardiovascular events, so it should be used with caution and under the supervision of a healthcare provider.
Next Steps
Save this report and share it with your healthcare provider or a family member
Ask our expert AI assistant additional questions related to Indomethacin.
On this page
Indomethacin
Depletes
Prolonged use of Indomethacin can impact 3 essential nutrients.
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...
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...
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
Indomethacin-induced nutrient depletion can lead to a range of health problems
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...
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....
Side Effects
Common side effects of Indomethacin, some of which may be related to nutrient depletion
Review
Common side effects of Indomethacin include:
1. Upset stomach or stomach pain 2. Nausea and vomiting 3. Diarrhea or constipation 4. Dizziness or headache 5. Rash or itching 6. Fluid retention and swelling 7. Increased blood pressure 8. Heartburn or indigestion 9. Difficulty sleeping or drowsiness 10. Blurred vision
Serious side effects that require immediate medical attention include:
1. Severe stomach pain or black, tarry stools 2. Chest pain or shortness of breath 3. Sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body 4. Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes) 5. Seizures or convulsions 6. Difficulty speaking or slurred speech 7. Severe headache or confusion 8. Rapid weight gain or swelling in the hands, feet, or ankles 9. Signs of an allergic reaction, such as hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
It is important to seek medical help if you experience any of these serious side effects while taking Indomethacin.
Get Support
We've developed a formula to replenish the nutrients depleted by Indomethacin.
Pure Encapsulations' Vitamin C supplement is a high-quality, hypoallergenic product designed to support immune function, collagen production, and antioxidant protection.