Indocin CR Description

Indocin CR or the generic alternative Indomethacin Controlled Release is a medication used to treat mild to severe symptoms of tenderness, pain, swelling, and stiffness caused by inflammatory conditions such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Indocin CR belongs to a class of medications called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs most commonly referred to as NSAIDs. The generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand product.

Reducing Inflammatory Chemicals Eases Arthritis Symptoms

Indomethacin Controlled Release works by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are chemicals that the body produces and which cause the fever and pain that are associated with inflammation. Indomethacin blocks the enzymes that make prostaglandins (cyclooxygenase 1 and 2) and thereby reduces the levels of these inflammatory chemicals.

Conditions Treated by Indocin CR

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis that can be a result of everyday wear and tear of your large and small joints. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that involves your immune system attacking your own body. Indocin CR is a long-acting medication that delivers a steady release of medication to help decrease the pain of swelling and inflammation and improve mobility of your joints. This is not a cure for arthritis, but an effective medication for treating the symptoms.

Your physician may also prescribe Indocin CR to treat bursitis. This is the term given to any inflammation of a “bursa” which is a small fluid-filled sac under the skin, located between bone, muscle, tendons, and skin, that decreases rubbing, friction, and irritation. The most common areas affected are the shoulder, knee, ankle, elbow and hip. The risk of developing bursitis is higher with activities that involve repetitive movement, such as jogging, and in people who do a lot of kneeling. Symptoms of bursitis include pain and swelling. Treatment may include rest, ice and a prescriptions for an NSAID such as Indocin CR.

Before Indocin CR is Prescribed

Discuss with your doctor the safety of taking Indocin CR if you are pregnant, planning on becoming pregnant, or are breast feeding. You should not take Indocin CR or generic Indomethacin Controlled Release if you have experienced asthma, urticaria, or allergic-type reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs.

Indocin CR Precautions

Indocin CR can increase your risk of fatal heart attack or stroke, especially if you use it long term, take it in high doses, or if you have heart disease. You should not use this medicine just before or after heart bypass surgery (coronary artery bypass graft, or CABG).

Indocin CR capsules should be swallowed whole with water and not broken, chewed or crushed. They should be taken with or after food to help avoid irritating your stomach. Keep Indocin CR and other medications out of children’s reach and never share meds with anyone else.

Possible Side Effects of Indocin CR

• Dizziness
• Headache
• Heartburn
• Upset stomach

Drugs Similar to Indocin CR

• Arcoxia
• Indocin
• Anaprox DS