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Ibuprofen vs Indocin
Introduction
For patients dealing with pain, inflammation or fever, certain drugs that inhibit the production of prostaglandins in the body can help manage these symptoms. Ibuprofen and Indocin are two such medications often prescribed for these ailments. They each impact different aspects of prostaglandin synthesis but both have analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects in patients. Ibuprofen is a non-selective NSAID (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug), affecting levels of all types of prostaglandins which results in reducing inflammation, pain and fever. Indocin (also known as indomethacin), on the other hand, is also an NSAID but it’s more potent than ibuprofen and has greater gastrointestinal side effects so it's generally used for conditions like gout where its strong action outweighs its potential side-effects.
Ibuprofen vs Indocin Side By Side
| Attribute | Advil | Indocin |
|---|---|---|
| Brand Name | Advil | Indocin |
| Contraindications | Should not be taken with anticoagulants or certain types of antidepressants without consulting a doctor | Should not be taken with anticoagulants or certain types of antidepressants without consulting a doctor |
| Cost | Less than $1/day for maximum over-the-counter dosage | Around $3.70/day for a common dose (75 mg daily) |
| Generic Name | Ibuprofen | Indomethacin |
| Most Serious Side Effect | Ulcers, bleeding in the stomach or intestines | Signs of an allergic reaction, stomach bleeding, kidney problems, liver problems, low red blood cells (anemia) |
| Severe Drug Interactions | Increased risk of bleeding with anticoagulants, potential for gastrointestinal bleeding with certain antidepressants | Increased risk of bleeding with anticoagulants, potential for gastrointestinal bleeding with certain antidepressants |
| Typical Dose | 200-400 mg every 4 to 6 hours | 25–50 mg/day, can be increased to 75-150 mg/day |
What is Ibuprofen?
Ibuprofen, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), was a significant development in the first class of over-the-counter pain relievers. It was first approved by the FDA in 1974 and is widely used for its analgesic, antipyretic, and anti-inflammatory effects. Ibuprofen works by blocking prostaglandins, substances that the body produces in response to illness or injury which cause inflammation and swelling.
On the other hand, Indomethacin (the generic name for Indocin) belongs to another branch of NSAIDs known as acetic acid derivatives. Like ibuprofen, it inhibits prostaglandin synthesis but tends to have stronger side effects including gastrointestinal issues like stomach ulcers or bleeding when taken long term.
While both drugs effectively treat pain and inflammation caused by various conditions such as arthritis and gout attacks, indomethacin has been particularly effective for specific conditions such as ankylosing spondylitis where ibuprofen may not be sufficient.
What conditions is Ibuprofen approved to treat?
Ibuprofen is approved for the treatment of various forms of pain and inflammation:
- Rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis
- Mild to moderate pain caused by conditions like headache, toothache, menstrual cramps, muscle aches or minor injury
- Fever reduction
- Inflammatory diseases such as gout (when used in high doses)
On the other hand, Indocin (indomethacin) is also authorized for treating different types of pain and inflammation-related conditions:
- Moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis including acute flares of chronic disease, ankylosing spondylitis, osteoarthritis.
- Acute painful shoulder due to bursitis or tendinitis
- Acute gouty arthritis
How does Ibuprofen help with these illnesses?
Ibuprofen helps to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins, substances in the body that cause inflammation. It does this by blocking an enzyme known as cyclooxygenase (COX), which is involved in making prostaglandins. By reducing the levels of these inflammatory mediators, ibuprofen can help to lessen symptoms such as pain, swelling and fever. Indocin, on the other hand, also works by inhibiting COX enzymes but it exhibits its effects for a longer duration compared to Ibuprofen due its high potency nature. Both are part of a class of drugs called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) but their difference lies mainly in their dosage administration with Indocin requiring fewer doses throughout the day due to its prolonged action.
What is Indocin?
Indocin, the brand name for indomethacin, is a type of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that works by reducing the production of prostaglandins, substances in the body that cause inflammation and pain. Indomethacin was first approved by the FDA in 1965. Unlike ibuprofen, which can be bought over-the-counter, Indocin requires a prescription due to its stronger potency and potential side effects. These include gastrointestinal issues such as stomach upset or ulcers and renal complications. This makes Indocin more suitable for treating moderate to severe acute pain resulting from conditions like gout or rheumatoid arthritis where ibuprofen may not provide adequate relief. However, it's important to note that because it does not inhibit COX-2 as selectively as some other NSAIDs do (like celecoxib), it might carry a higher risk of side effects than those drugs.
What conditions is Indocin approved to treat?
Indocin, also known as Indomethacin, is a medication that has been approved by the FDA and commonly prescribed for the management of:
- Moderate to severe osteoarthritis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Ankylosing spondylitis
- Acute painful shoulder (bursitis or tendinitis) This nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) works by reducing inflammation and pain in the body.
How does Indocin help with these illnesses?
Indomethacin, known widely as Indocin, is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that operates by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins, compounds in the body responsible for pain and inflammation. Just like ibuprofen does. However, Indocin stands out for its robust efficacy in treating moderate to severe acute or chronic pain conditions such as gout, arthritis, bursitis among others. It’s also used off-label for closing patent ductus arteriosus in premature infants - something not typically done with ibuprofen. While both medications belong to the same class and have similar side effects profiles due to their mechanism of action on COX enzymes responsible for prostaglandins production; Indocin may cause more gastrointestinal issues compared to Ibuprofen because it's more potent and has a longer duration of action. Therefore it might be prescribed when a patient doesn't respond well enough to milder NSAIDs like Ibuprofen or needs a stronger anti-inflammatory effect.
How effective are both Ibuprofen and Indocin?
Ibuprofen and indomethacin (Indocin) both have long-standing records of being effective nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), with ibuprofen gaining FDA approval in 1974, followed by indomethacin a year later. Both medications inhibit the enzymes responsible for prostaglandin production; however, they do so through slightly different mechanisms which can lead to distinct therapeutic uses.
A key clinical study in 1985 directly compared the effects of ibuprofen and indomethacin on patients suffering from rheumatoid arthritis. The results demonstrated comparable efficacy between the two drugs in terms of pain reduction and overall symptom management. No significant differences were found regarding standard metrics used to assess NSAID effectiveness within this patient group.
In a meta-analysis conducted in 2000 investigating various NSAIDs, it was reported that ibuprofen is an effective analgesic for acute pain, well-tolerated by most people including children and older adults, making it one of the most popular over-the-counter pain relievers globally. An ideal dosage considered for optimal effect is around 400 mg every four to six hours as needed.
Also included within this review was indomethacin which has shown its particular strength against severe forms of inflammatory conditions such as ankylosing spondylitis or gouty arthritis due to its potent anti-inflammatory properties. Yet unlike ibuprofen's more widespread use case profile, Indocin often serves as a second-line treatment option due predominantly to its higher potential for gastrointestinal side-effects compared with other NSAIDs like Ibuprofen.
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At what dose is Ibuprofen typically prescribed?
Oral dosages of Ibuprofen for adults typically range from 200-400 mg every 4 to 6 hours, but studies have shown that a dose of 400 mg is sufficient for relieving moderate pain and inflammation in most people. For children over six months, the dosage depends on their body weight, usually around 5-10mg/kg every six to eight hours. In both populations, doses can be increased if there is no response after a few days but should not exceed the maximum daily limit. This varies depending on age: Adults should not take more than 1200 mg/day without medical supervision while children's maximum dosage would depend on their weight and specific circumstances – always consult with a healthcare provider.
Indocin (or Indomethacin), another nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) like ibuprofen, has its own set of guidelines. Adult dosages typically start at around 25-50 mg two or three times per day for conditions like arthritis or gouty arthritis; however this may vary considerably based on individual needs and responses - it's important to follow your doctor’s instructions closely when using Indocin. Children aged fourteen years or older may also use Indocin under careful medical supervision - younger children must avoid it due to possible side effects related to kidney function.
At what dose is Indocin typically prescribed?
Indocin treatment typically begins with a dosage of 25–50 mg/day. The dose can then be increased to 75-150 mg/day, divided into two or three doses, taken at intervals throughout the day. Maximum daily dose is generally set around 200 mg and divided into multiple intakes spaced out evenly during waking hours. If there's no response to treatment at initial lower dosages after a few weeks, your healthcare provider may consider increasing your dosage within safe limits.
What are the most common side effects for Ibuprofen?
Common side effects of ibuprofen compared to Indocin may include:
- Stomach pain, indigestion
- Heartburn
- Nausea and vomiting
- Dizziness, nervousness or headaches
- Mild itching or rash
- Constipation, diarrhea,
- Ringing in your ears
With both drugs, there is a risk for more serious side effects such as ulcers, bleeding in the stomach or intestines. These conditions can occur without warning while you are using these medications. Older adults may be at higher risk for this effect.
Are there any potential serious side effects for Ibuprofen?
While both Ibuprofen and Indocin are nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) used to relieve pain, they can have different side effects. The potential serious side effects of Indocin include:
- Allergic reactions that may cause difficulty breathing or swallowing, hives, swelling in your face or throat
- Severe skin reaction which could present as a red or purple rash that spreads causing blistering and peeling
- Vision-related problems including blurred vision, eye pain or seeing halos around lights
- Heart issues such as fast or pounding heartbeats, chest discomfort and sudden dizziness; Lower than usual sodium levels in the body resulting in headache, confusion, slurred speech, severe weakness and vomiting.
- Unusual nervous system responses like rigid muscles, high fever sweating confusion fast heartbeat tremors feeling lightheaded If you experience any symptoms related to serotonin syndrome such as agitation hallucinations fever sweating shivering fast heart rate muscle stiffness twitching loss of coordination nausea vomiting diarrhea it's important to seek immediate medical attention.
What are the most common side effects for Indocin?
Indocin, also known as Indomethacin, can potentially cause some of the following side effects:
- Nausea, vomiting or stomach pain
- Heartburn and indigestion
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Headache or dizziness
- Tiredness and fatigue
- Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
- Fluid retention resulting in swelling hands/ankles/feet.
It's always important to consult your healthcare provider when choosing between medication options like Ibuprofen and Indocin. It's critical to understand that while both are nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs used for pain relief, their side effects may differ based on individual health conditions.
Are there any potential serious side effects for Indocin?
Indocin, or indomethacin, like most medications, can cause potential side effects. Serious ones that require immediate medical attention include:
- Signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Symptoms related to stomach bleeding: bloody or tarry stools, coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds
- Kidney problems: little or no urination; painful or difficult urination; swelling in your feet or ankles; feeling tired
- Liver problems: nausea and vomiting; itching and rash all over the body; yellowing of skin and eyes (jaundice); upper right part abdominal pain
- Low red blood cells (anemia): pale skin, unusual tiredness/weakness/lightheadedness If you experience any of these symptoms while taking Indocin stop using it immediately and seek medical help.
Contraindications for Ibuprofen and Indocin?
Both Ibuprofen and Indocin, like most nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), may exacerbate symptoms of digestive issues in some people. If you observe an increase in stomach pain or blood in your stools, immediately consult with a healthcare professional.
Neither Ibuprofen nor Indocin should be taken if you are taking anticoagulants or certain types of antidepressants without consulting with your doctor first. Be sure to inform your physician about all the medications you are currently on; these could potentially interact dangerously with both Ibuprofen and Indocin. For example, mixing NSAIDs with anticoagulants can lead to increased risk of bleeding, while combining them with certain antidepressants might raise the chance for gastrointestinal bleeding.
How much do Ibuprofen and Indocin cost?
For the brand name versions of these drugs:
- The price for 60 tablets of Indocin (indomethacin) at a strength of 25mg averages around $110, which works out to about $3.70/day if you're taking a common dose (75 mg daily).
- Ibuprofen, on the other hand, is generally more accessible in terms of pricing. For Advil, one popular brand-name version, a bottle with 100 tablets (200mg each) can cost around $10-$15. If you are using ibuprofen regularly at maximum over-the-counter dosage (1200 mg per day), it would work out to be less than $1/day.
Hence, if your prescribed dose is higher for indomethacin - i.e., up to the typical maximum of 200 mg/day - then branded ibuprofen could be significantly cheaper on a per-day treatment basis. However, please remember that cost shouldn't be your only factor when deciding between medications.
Regarding generic versions:
- Generic indomethacin costs can range from as low as $0.30/tablet depending on your dosage and location.
- Generic ibuprofen tends to have an even lower cost per tablet – often below $0.20/tablet – making this option typically cheaper still compared with its counterpart.
Remember that it's crucial to consult with healthcare professionals before making any decisions based solely on medication costs; efficacy and side effects should also play significant roles in your choice.
Popularity of Ibuprofen and Indocin
Ibuprofen, available both in generic form and under brand names such as Advil, was estimated to have been used by millions of people in the US in 2020. Its applications range from relief for minor aches and pains to reducing fever and managing symptoms of arthritis. Being an over-the-counter medication with a strong safety profile, it's no wonder that ibuprofen is immensely popular.
Indomethacin, sold under brand name Indocin among others, is another non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) like ibuprofen but is typically used for specific conditions such as gout or patent ductus arteriosus — a heart defect commonly found in premature infants. In recent years though, its prescription numbers are significantly lower than those of ibuprofen due to its potential side effects when not correctly managed. However, indomethacin remains an important medicine for treating certain conditions where other NSAIDs may be less effective.
Conclusion
Both ibuprofen and Indocin (indomethacin) have established histories of usage in patients with various conditions causing pain, inflammation, or fever. They are both non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), shown by numerous clinical studies to be more effective than placebo treatments for these indications. In some cases, the medications may be used together under careful consideration by a physician due to their potential synergistic effects and contraindications.
Ibuprofen is often considered a first-line treatment option due to its safety profile and over-the-counter availability, whereas Indocin might typically be utilized as an adjunctive therapy (addition) for patients who did not experience sufficient relief from ibuprofen alone or those suffering from specific conditions such as gout or certain types of arthritis.
Both medications are available in generic form which represents significant cost savings especially for patients paying out of pocket. Both ibuprofen and Indocin may require an adjustment period when starting treatment meaning that full therapeutic effects may not be noticeable right away.
In terms of side effects, while similar between the two drugs including gastrointestinal issues like stomach irritation or bleeding, indomethacin has been associated with higher risk than ibuprofen. For both drugs, it's crucial that patients closely monitor their symptoms when starting treatment and should seek medical help immediately if they notice any severe side-effects such as chest pain, shortness of breath or slurred speech.
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Refrences
- Royer, G. L., Moxley, T. E., Hearron, M. S., Miyara, A., & Shenker, B. M. (1975, May). A Long Term Double-Blind Clinical Trial of Ibuprofen and Indomethacin in Rheumatoid Arthritis. Journal of International Medical Research. SAGE Publications.http://doi.org/10.1177/030006057500300304
- Charkaluk, M. L., Kalach, N., El Kohen, R., & Kremp, O. (2005, August). Utilisation familiale de l'ibuprofène chez l'enfant fébrile : une étude prospective aux urgences d'un hôpital lillois. Archives de Pédiatrie. Elsevier BV.http://doi.org/10.1016/j.arcped.2005.02.024
- Mort, J. R., Aparasu, R. R., & Baer, R. K. (2006, September). Interaction Between Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors and Nonsteroidal Antiinflammatory Drugs: Review of the Literature. Pharmacotherapy: The Journal of Human Pharmacology and Drug Therapy. Wiley.http://doi.org/10.1592/phco.26.9.1307
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- Department of Paediatrics, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, 30 Gascoigne Road, Kowloon, Hong Kong, Chan, N., Law, C., & Kwan, K. (2014, January 30). Ibuprofen versus indomethacin treatment of patent ductus arteriosus: comparative effectiveness and complications. Hong Kong Medical Journal. Hong Kong Academy of Medicine Press.http://doi.org/10.12809/hkmj134080
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