Metaflam 60

Indications

Acemetacin is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to relieve pain, swelling and stiffness in rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, ankylosing spondylitis (inflammation of the spine), and pain and inflammation after injuries such as sprains, as well as tendon and joint inflammation.

How It Works

Acemetacin is changed in the body into Indometacin. It blocks enzymes called cyclo-oxygenases (COX), which make prostaglandins, chemicals that cause pain, swelling and fever. Less prostaglandin means less pain and inflammation.

Dosage and Administration

Usual adult dose: 60 mg two or three times a day, that is 120 to 180 mg daily, or as prescribed. Take with or just after food with a glass of water. Use the lowest dose that works for the shortest time. Not recommended for children.

Interactions

• Other NSAIDs such as Ibuprofen, Diclofenac or Aspirin increase stomach bleeding risk.
• Warfarin, Clopidogrel, corticosteroids and SSRIs such as Sertraline raise bleeding risk.
• It may reduce the effect of blood pressure medicines and diuretics, and increase kidney harm with them.
• It can raise levels of Lithium, Methotrexate and Digoxin.

Contraindications

• Allergy to acemetacin, Indometacin, Aspirin or other NSAIDs (including asthma or hives triggered by them).
• Active or past stomach ulcer or bleeding.
• Severe heart failure, kidney or liver disease.
• Last 3 months of pregnancy.

Side Effects

Common: indigestion, nausea, tummy pain, diarrhoea, headache and dizziness. Less common: drowsiness, rash, fluid retention and raised blood pressure. Serious: stomach ulcers and bleeding, kidney problems, heart attack or stroke with long use.

Get urgent medical help for black or bloody stools, vomiting blood, chest pain, sudden weakness or trouble speaking, swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing or a severe rash.

Pregnancy and Lactation

Avoid in pregnancy unless the doctor advises, and do not use in the last 3 months. Not recommended while breastfeeding.

Precautions and Warnings

• Use with care in older people, asthma, high blood pressure, heart disease and kidney problems.
• May cause dizziness or drowsiness; do not drive if affected.
• Avoid alcohol, which adds to stomach irritation.

Overdose

Overdose may cause nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, drowsiness, headache and, rarely, fits or kidney damage. Seek medical help straight away.

Therapeutic Class

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), indole acetic acid derivative.

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children.