Indocid®

(indomethacin, MSD)

Indocid®-R

(sustained-release indomethacin, MSD)

PLEASE READ ALL OF THIS LEAFLET CAREFULLY BEFORE YOU START TO TAKE YOUR MEDICINE.

Keep this leaflet. You may want to read it again.

What is in your medicine?

Active ingredient

The active ingredient in Indocid Capsules and Suspensions, and in Indocid-R Capsules, is indomethacin EP.

Indocid is available in four different preparations:

Indocid Capsules come in two strengths: the ivory opaque capsules marked 'MSD 25' contain 25 mg indomethacin EP; ivory opaque capsules marked 'MSD 50' contain 50 mg indomethacin.

Indocid-R is an ivory and transparent blue capsule carrying white and blue pellets marked 'INDOCID-R 693' and contains 75 mg indomethacin EP.

Indocid Suspension contains, in each 5 ml, 25 mg indomethacin EP.

Other ingredients

In Indocid Capsules: anhydrous colloidal silica EP, lactose EP, lecithin USNF, magnesium stearate EP, erythrosine E127, gelatin EP, quinoline yellow E104, titanium dioxide EP.

In Indocid-R Capsules: indigo carmine EP, magnesium stearate EP maize starch EP methyl hydroxypropylcellulose EP, microcrystalline cellulose EP, poly(vinyl acetate-crotonic acid) copolymer, sucrose EP, gelatin EP, patent blue V E131, red iron oxide E172, titanium dioxide EP, yellow iron oxide E172.

In Indocid Suspension: antifoam AF emulsion, carmoisine E122, ethanol, fritzsche mint flavour /no. 33512), pineapple coconut flavour (no. 532), purified water EP, sorbic acid EP, sorbitol solution EP, tragacanth EP.

How does your medicine work?

The active ingredient in your medicine is indomethacin. This belongs to a group of medicines known as 'non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents' or NSAIDs. These work by reducing the body's ability to produce inflammation, which may cause pain and discomfort.

Who makes your medicine?

Indocid and Indocid-R Capsules are made by Merck Manufacturing Division, Merck Sharp & Dohme Limited, Cramlington, for Merck Sharp & Dohme Limited, Hertford Road, Hoddesdon, Hertfordshire, who hold the Product Licence in the UK and the Product Authorisation in Eire. Indocid Suspension is made by BCM (Nottingham) Limited, 1 Thane Road, Nottingham NG2 3AA, for Merck Sharp & Dohme Limited, Hertford Road, Hoddesdon, Hertfordshire, who hold the Product Licence in the UK and the Product Authorisation in Eire.

Why do you need to take this medicine?

Your doctor has prescribed Indocid for you because you are suffering from one of the following:

  • Painful conditions which involve inflammation of joints or muscles. There are a number of different causes such as arthritis. Your doctor can explain which affect you.
  • Pain, inflammation, and swelling following orthopaedic surgery.
  • Period pain.

In addition, Indocid Capsules and Suspension (but not Indocid-R Capsules) may be prescribed for acute gouty arthritis.

Are there patients who should not take Indocid?

Yes, do not take the medicine if:

  • you are or think you may be pregnant - you are planning to become pregnant - you are breast-feeding
  • you know you have a stomach ulcer or you suffer from persistent stomach problems requiring medication
  • you have polyps in your nose associated with itching, nettle rash, wheezing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue and/or throat or difficulties in swallowing or breathing
  • you have had a bad reaction to this or similar medicines in the past; for example, if you have experienced breathing difficulties, skin rashes which look like nettle rash, or a runny nose after taking aspirin or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicines.

In addition, Indocid is not recommended for use in children.

If you think any of these apply to you or you are unsure or confused, do not take 'Indocid' go and talk to your doctor first and follow his advice.

What else should you know before taking Indocid?

You should check with your doctor before taking Indocid if:

  • you are epileptic, have Parkinson's disease, or have a psychiatric problem.
  • you have heart disease, high blood pressure or have a tendency for fluid retention.
  • you are being treated for infection.
  • you know you suffer from liver or kidney disease, diabetes or heart failure.
  • you have a problem with your blood clotting.

If you have rheumatoid arthritis your doctor may want to examine your eyes at intervals during your treatment with Indocid. You should see your doctor if you notice any change in your vision.

What about driving and operating machinery?

Indocid can cause dizziness in some people. If this happens to you, avoid activities which require alertness; for example, driving a car and operating machinery.

Can you take Indocid with other medicines?

There are a few other medicines which may not mix with Indocid. Your doctor knows about these and will alter your treatment as needed. However, it is very important that you tell your doctor about all the medicines you are taking, including those obtained without a doctor's prescription. If you are taking any of the following medicines you should talk to your doctor before taking Indocid:

  • Another non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicine called diflunisal.
  • Medicines which thin the blood.
  • A medicine for gout called probenecid. - Methotrexate.
  • An immunosuppressant medicine called cyclosporin.
  • Lithium.
  • Diuretics (water tablets). - Digoxin.
  • Medicines for high blood pressure.
  • A nasal decongestant called phenylpropanolamine.

How should you take your medicine?

It is very important to take Indocid with food or an antacid. This will help prevent any stomach disturbances. However, if you are taking Indocid Suspension, do not mix it with an antacid, and do not dilute it.

You should take your medicine exactly as your doctor or pharmacist has advised. The amount you take will depend upon your condition. Do not take more or less than your doctor has advised.

What if you forget a dose or take too much Indocid?

If you miss a dose, just carry on with the next dose as normal. Do not take an extra one to make up.

Do not transfer your medicine into another container, as it might get mixed up.