Mode of Action
Indomethacin has a strong anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and mild antipyretic effect by inhibiting cyclooxygenase. This blocks the synthesis of cyclic peroxides, prostaglandins, thromboxanes, and prostacyclin. It also has a decongestant effect. The concentrations of indomethacin in the treated tissue are higher than in the blood. When applied topically, it exerts a local effect. It is well absorbed through the skin and reaches maximum plasma concentrations 4–11 hours after application. After absorption, more than 90% binds to plasma proteins. It is metabolized in the liver and kidneys to inactive metabolites (deschlorobenzoylindomethacin, desmethylindomethacin). The half-life is 3–4 hours. It is excreted unchanged (approx. 66%) via the urine and as inactive metabolites via the stool. The remainder is excreted unchanged via the stool.
Indications
Locally for pain and inflammation associated with: rheumatic changes of soft tissue (tendinitis, tenosynovitis, joint stiffness, myositis, and joint capsule inflammation), exacerbation of osteoarthritis, as well as blunt sports and accident injuries (sprains, dislocations, bruises).
