Indomethacin injection

What is this medicine?

INDOMETHACIN (in doe METH a sin) injection is a nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID). It is used to close a heart defect called patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) in a baby who was born early.

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is for infusion into a vein. It is given by a health care provider in a hospital. It is usually given as three doses given at 12 to 24 hour intervals.

This drug is specifically for use in newborns.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

• change in amount or color of urine

• redness, blistering, peeling, or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth

• trouble breathing

• unusual bleeding, bruising

• yellowing of eyes, skin

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• feeding problems

• skin irritation where injected

What may interact with this medicine?

• aspirin and aspirin-like medicines

• certain antibiotics

• digoxin

• diuretics

• medicines that treat or prevent blood clots like warfarin

• NSAIDs, medicines for pain and inflammation, like ibuprofen or naproxen

• steroid medicines like prednisone or cortisone

What if I miss a dose?

This does not apply.

Where should I keep my medicine?

This drug is only given in a hospital and will not be stored at home.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• bleeding problems

• heart problems

• infection

• kidney disease

• liver disease

• stomach problems

• an unusual reaction to indomethacin, aspirin, other NSAIDs, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Your baby's condition will be watched closely while this treatment is given. Your baby will also receive regular blood tests and exams. Talk with your doctor or healthcare provider if you have any concerns.

This medicine may cause serious skin reactions. They can happen weeks to months after starting the medicine. Contact your healthcare provider right away if you notice fevers or flu-like symptoms with a rash. The rash may be red or purple and then turn into blisters or peeling of the skin. Or, you might notice a red rash with swelling of the face, lips or lymph nodes in your neck or under your arms.