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Compare Ibuprofen vs. Indocin

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and indomethacin (Indocin) are both NSAIDs used to relieve pain and inflammation, but they have some key differences. Ibuprofen is available over-the-counter and by prescription, while indomethacin requires a prescription. Ibuprofen can be taken orally in various forms like tablets, capsules, and liquid, whereas indomethacin is available as a tablet and rectal suppository. Ibuprofen is commonly used for short-term relief of minor aches, pains, and fever, while indomethacin is used for more severe conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and gouty arthritis. Side effects for both include stomach upset and headache, but indomethacin can also cause rectal irritation when used as a suppository. Additionally, ibuprofen is more accessible and comes in multiple strengths, while indomethacin is only available in a 50 mg or 75 mg strength. Neither medication should be taken together or with other NSAIDs due to increased risks of side effects like stomach bleeding and kidney damage.

  • Ibuprofen
    Indomethacin (Indocin) suppository
  • Ibuprofen
    Indomethacin (Indocin) suppository

  • Summary of Ibuprofen vs. Indocin

    Summary for NSAID

    Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that's used to temporarily relieve fever, pains, and aches in adults and children. In general, ibuprofen is taken by mouth every 4 to 8 hours, though the dosage depends on your age, weight, and other medical problems. Ibuprofen side effects include nausea, heartburn, and stomach pain, but taking it with food might help prevent these side effects. Ibuprofen is available over the counter and by prescription, depending on the strength you need.

    Summary for NSAID
    Prescription only

    Indomethacin (Indocin) suppository is an NSAID that's used to treat different types of arthritis and conditions that cause pain in the shoulder. It helps lower inflammation and relieve pain. As a suppository, it's inserted into the rectum, typically 2 to 4 times a day depending on what condition the medication is being used to treat. Side effects might include headache and stomach upset. Unlike other NSAIDs, indomethacin (Indocin) suppository isn't available over-the-counter and requires a prescription from your healthcare provider.

  • Indications of Ibuprofen vs. Indocin

    Indications for

    Over-the-counter ibuprofen:

    •Short-term relief of minor aches and pains due to headache, muscle aches, minor arthritis pain, toothache, backache, the common cold, or menstrual cramps
    •Fever

    Prescription ibuprofen:

    •Mild-to-moderate pain
    •Pain from rheumatoid arthritis (RA) or osteoarthritis (OA)
    •Pain from menstrual cramps
    Indications for
    •Moderate-to-severe rheumatoid arthritis, including flare-ups
    •Moderate-to-severe ankylosing spondylitis
    •Moderate-to-severe osteoarthritis
    •Shoulder pain caused by bursitis or tendonitis
    •Gouty arthritis

  • Pros and Cons of Ibuprofen vs. Indocin

    Pros and Const for NSAID
    Pros
    •Works well for fever, pain, and swelling
    •Available over the counter and by prescription and as lower-cost generics
    •Available as tablets, capsules, chewable tablets, and an oral liquid
    •Chewable tablets and liquid can be used in children
    Cons
    •Lasts for only about 6 hours, so might need to take multiple doses throughout the day
    •Might not be the best option if you're 65 years or older or if you have kidney, heart, liver, or bleeding problems
    •Has risk of stomach bleeding, stomach ulcers, and kidney problems
    •Shouldn't take other NSAIDs at the same time because of higher risk for side effects
    Pros and Const for NSAID
    Pros
    •Good option for people who have trouble swallowing pills
    •Can treat many different types of arthritis
    •Available as a lower-cost generic
    Cons
    •Only available in one strength (50 mg), so you might need to use several suppositories if you're taking a high dose
    •Might need to take multiple times per day
    •Not available over-the-counter

  • Common Side Effects of Ibuprofen vs. Indocin

    Common Side Effects for

    The following side effects were reported in up to 9% of people in clinical studies.

    •Nausea
    •Stomach pain
    •Heartburn
    •Dizziness
    •Rash
    Common Side Effects for

    Note: The side effects listed here are for indomethacin capsules. Side effects for the suppositories might differ.

    •Headache
    •Dizziness
    •Nausea
    •Stomach upset

  • Warnings of Ibuprofen vs. Indocin

    Common Side Effects for
    •Stomach bleeding and ulcers
    •Heart attack and stroke
    •High blood pressure and heart failure
    •Kidney damage
    •Liver problems
    •Severe allergic reactions
    •Harm to unborn babies
    •Caution use in people with phenylketonuria (PKU) - chewable tablets only
    Common Side Effects for
    •Stomach bleeding and ulcers
    •Heart attack and stroke
    •High blood pressure and heart failure
    •Liver problems
    •Kidney damage and high potassium levels
    •Severe allergic reactions
    •Severe asthma attack
    •Worsening of nervous system and mental health problems
    •Harm to unborn babies

  • Prices with our coupons for Ibuprofen vs. Indocin

    Learn more about Ibuprofen
    Learn more about Indomethacin

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