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Inacid Retard

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Medically reviewed

Rosario Oropesa

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

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Overview of Inacid Retard

Property Description
Active ingredient Indometacin (Indomethacin)
Form Sustained-release capsule (Retard)
Pharmacological class Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug (NSAID)
Common purpose Relief of pain, inflammation, and fever
Origin Synthetic compound (Indole derivative)

What Type of Medicine is Inacid Retard?

Inacid Retard is a medication whose active ingredient is Indometacin (or Indomethacin), a potent, synthetic compound. It is classified as a Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug (NSAID). Chemically, Indometacin belongs to the Indole derivative family, which structurally distinguishes it from other NSAIDs. Inacid Retard is a prescription-only medicine (POM), indicating its use is overseen by a healthcare professional due to the potency of the Indometacin compound.


What Does the Retard Formulation Mean?

The Retard designation is a key differentiating factor, signifying that Inacid Retard is a sustained-release capsule, a specific oral dosage form engineered for a long-acting effect. This modified-release preparation releases the Indometacin gradually over an extended period. This mechanism provides consistent therapeutic levels, which is particularly beneficial for the prolonged management of persistent symptoms. The sustained-release nature offers continuous coverage, which is a key advantage over immediate-release formulations.


What is the General Purpose of Indometacin?

Indometacin's general purpose is to offer foundational relief from the symptoms of inflammation by targeting the underlying biochemical processes. Indometacin acts as a powerful cyclooxygenase inhibitor, blocking the synthesis of prostaglandins—the compounds responsible for signaling pain, heat, and fever. This core mechanism means the medicine helps to diminish the body's response, providing both analgesic (pain-relieving) and antipyretic (fever-reducing) effects. Its utility is often seen in scenarios requiring continuous management of inflammatory symptoms, such as the persistent pain associated with rheumatoid conditions.

Regulatory References

  1. MedlinePlus Indomethacin Overview
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What side effects are possible with Inacid Retard?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

Inacid Retard (Indomethacin Extended-Release) has an official safety profile defined by serious risks, general side effects, and specific use limitations documented by regulatory authorities.

Serious Warnings and Restrictions

Regulatory documents emphasize two critical, potentially fatal risks (often highlighted in a Boxed Warning):

  • Serious Gastrointestinal Events: This includes the risk of bleeding, ulceration, and perforation of the stomach or intestines, which can occur at any time without warning. The risk is elevated in elderly patients.
  • Serious Cardiovascular Thrombotic Events: Use may increase the risk of a heart attack or stroke. This risk may increase with the duration of use and may be greater in individuals with existing cardiovascular disease or risk factors.

The medicine is contraindicated for treating peri-operative pain in the setting of Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) surgery, and in patients with a history of asthma or allergies triggered by aspirin or other similar medicines.

Common and Clinically Significant Side Effects

Adverse reactions are formally categorized by how often they occur:

Frequency Category Examples of Side Effects
Common (1% to 10%) Headache, dizziness, nausea, depression, upset stomach, ringing in the ears (tinnitus).
Uncommon (0.1% to 1%) Fluid retention (edema), congestive heart failure, hypertension, toxic hepatitis, blurred vision.

Clinically significant effects involving specific organ systems include potential toxicity to the kidneys (nephrotoxicity), liver (hepatotoxicity), and blood (hematologic disorders, such as anemia). Blood pressure should be closely monitored during therapy.

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Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and When to Seek Help

This information describes the documented risks and required emergency actions for Inacid Retard (Indomethacin) overdose, strictly based on authoritative government regulatory sources.

Documented Overdose Manifestations

Following the ingestion of a large amount, overdose symptoms frequently involve the Central Nervous System (CNS) and the Gastrointestinal (GI) System. Common signs include nausea, vomiting, severe headache, dizziness, and confusion. More serious CNS effects documented in regulatory labeling include agitation, extreme tiredness, and potentially seizures or coma in severe cases. GI manifestations can escalate to internal bleeding in the stomach and intestines.

Critical Outcomes and Emergency Action

Severe outcomes documented in official sources include potentially fatal gastrointestinal hemorrhage and acute kidney damage (renal failure). Because of these severe, life-threatening risks, immediate medical help must be sought for any known or suspected overdose.

Regulatory instructions require calling emergency services (such as 911) or a poison control center right away. In a hospital setting, treatment is supportive and symptomatic, as no specific antidote is available. Management measures documented include gastric decontamination using activated charcoal or gastric lavage, monitoring of vital signs, and symptomatic relief.

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Therapeutic Uses of Inacid Retard

Inacid Retard is used in situations involving certain distressing symptoms related to inflammation. It is commonly used across conditions presenting with systemic or localized discomfort, such as those associated with chronic joint conditions or post-injury pain. It is generally applied in scenarios where additional management of discomfort is required, as it supports the body in managing symptoms related to inflammatory or irritative states.

Easing Discomfort and Supporting Function

Inacid Retard is applied in contexts where additional symptomatic support is needed to address pain, tenderness, swelling, and stiffness. It helps address symptom clusters that may become intense or disruptive, contributing to improved comfort during periods of heightened symptoms. It is often used during phases when symptoms become more noticeable, relevant when supportive symptom management is appropriate.

This medication assists with managing symptoms that interfere with daily functioning by providing supportive relief when symptoms related to physical discomfort are present. It is relevant in contexts involving inflammatory or irritative processes.


Quick Fact: Relief for Stiffness and Joint Pain

Regulatory References

  1. NIH MedlinePlus overview
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Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Inacid Retard (Indomethacin) is an NSAID medicine with strict eligibility criteria as defined by regulatory health authorities.

Who Must NOT Use This Medicine (Contraindications)

Inacid Retard is contraindicated for the following populations:

  • Patients with a known allergy or hypersensitivity to indomethacin or any other NSAID, including a history of asthma, urticaria, or allergic-type reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs.
  • Patients undergoing peri-operative pain treatment for Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) surgery.
  • Pregnant women during the third trimester (starting at 30 weeks gestation) due to risks of fetal toxicity and complications during delivery.
  • Individuals with active gastrointestinal bleeding, ulcers, or perforation.
  • Individuals with severe renal insufficiency or severe liver disease.
  • Children under 14 years of age (safety and efficacy are not established).
  • Patients with severe heart failure, existing hemorrhages or coagulation problems, certain CNS disorders (e.g., epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease), or active infections.

Special Consideration and Restrictions

Use should be avoided in patients with advanced renal disease or severe heart failure unless the benefits significantly outweigh the risks. Elderly patients must use the medicine with greater care and may require dose reduction due to an increased risk of adverse reactions, particularly affecting the GI tract and central nervous system. Use is generally limited between 20 and 30 weeks of pregnancy.

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What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

The official regulatory profile for Indometacin establishes several clinically significant interaction patterns, defining specific requirements and prohibited co-administrations. Co-administration is formally contraindicated with other Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) due to the synergistic risk of severe gastrointestinal events, and its use is restricted in the context of Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) surgery.

Interactions are documented across two primary domains: altered clearance and pharmacodynamic interference. Indometacin may alter the clearance of certain medicines, leading to increased plasma concentrations of Digoxin and Lithium. Separately, the medicine may diminish the therapeutic effects of various antihypertensive agents, including ACE Inhibitors, Angiotensin Receptor Blockers (ARBs), and Beta-Blockers, as well as reducing the natriuretic effect of diuretics like Furosemide.

A critical regulatory pattern involves a synergistic risk of bleeding. This is documented when Indometacin is co-administered with anticoagulants (such as Warfarin), antiplatelet agents, Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs/SNRIs), and in conjunction with alcohol consumption. The risk of renal function deterioration during co-administration with ACE Inhibitors or ARBs is specifically noted as heightened in the elderly, volume depleted individuals, or those with pre-existing renal impairment.

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Mechanism of Action

Inacid Retard contains indomethacin, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) whose primary mechanism involves the inhibition of cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes. Specifically, it functions as a non-selective inhibitor of both COX-1 and COX-2 isoforms.

The COX enzymes catalyze the conversion of arachidonic acid into prostaglandins and thromboxanes, which are lipid-derived molecules that act as localized signaling mediators in various tissues. By competitively binding to the active site of the COX enzymes, indomethacin blocks this conversion, resulting in a systemic decrease in prostaglandin synthesis.

Prostaglandins participate in several physiological and intracellular processes. Their reduced synthesis results in a modulation of cellular signaling, affecting the downstream cascades related to systemic vascular tone, renal function, and localized cellular responses. Indomethacin may also stabilize lysosomal membranes and potentially modulate the migration of leukocytes to tissue sites, contributing to its overall pharmacodynamic profile at the cellular level.

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Dosage and Administration Information

How to Use Inacid Retard

Inacid Retard is an oral sustained-release capsule containing Indometacin, and its use follows standardized protocols to ensure proper systemic administration. The core usage principle is to administer the lowest effective dosage for the shortest duration necessary.


Administration Details and Dosing

Usage Instruction Domain Official Labeled Requirement
Route of Administration Oral only.
Dose Integrity The sustained-release capsule must be swallowed whole. It must not be crushed, opened, or chewed.
Intake Condition Recommended to be taken with or immediately after food to mitigate potential gastrointestinal discomfort.

The 75 mg extended-release capsule is typically dosed once daily for chronic management, though administration twice daily may be used for specific acute conditions such as painful shoulder (bursitis/tendinitis). The maximum daily dosage for this formulation must not exceed 150 mg.


Use Over Time and Specific Populations

Treatment duration is contingent on the clinical scenario; for acute, short-term use, therapy is typically limited to 7 to 14 days, whereas it may be part of a long-term plan for chronic conditions.

  • Older Adults: Administration requires greater care, and the lowest effective dosage must be utilized due to the increased possibility of adverse reactions.
  • Pediatric Use: The safety and efficacy of the extended-release capsule have not been established for use in children and adolescents.

These details define the procedural framework for using the medicine, focusing on proper intake conditions and dosage boundaries.

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Recent Clinical Evidence

Research evidence / Overview of studies

Overview of Clinical Research

Key Research Findings

Studies examined changes in symptoms, with some finding improvement in measures of discomfort and mobility over periods ranging from 4 to 12 weeks.

Some research has assessed the timing of symptom changes and whether an effect on pain was observed over a period of time. These studies used standardized pain scales to track responses in adult participants.

Combination Therapy Assessment

Studies have evaluated the effects of the combination therapy (Drug X plus standard-of-care) on long-term health metrics, such as joint function and the incidence of flares. Findings from these evaluations are being further analyzed.

  • One study focused on whether the combination of Drug X with an existing DMARD impacted inflammation markers compared to the DMARD alone.
  • Another study examined whether the addition of Drug X to therapy affected the frequency of hospitalizations over a two-year follow-up period.

Comparative Studies and Dose Assessment

Comparative Effects

Some clinical trials have compared the drug's effects against existing treatments, such as NSAIDs or standard DMARDs, in participant groups with similar baseline characteristics. These trials aimed to measure differences in reported pain reduction and adverse event rates.

Effects of the Active Ingredient

Research has assessed the effects of the active ingredient, focusing on dose-ranging studies to identify the relationship between the administered amount and the observed response. The research focused on the effects of the drug in adult participants.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Inacid Retard (FAQ)


Q: Is Inacid Retard a type of narcotic or opioid painkiller?

A: No, Inacid Retard is not a narcotic or an opioid. Regulatory documents formally classify this medicine as a Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug (NSAID). Its action works by reducing inflammation and pain through a different mechanism than opioid medicines.


Q: What are the most common side effects reported by patients using Inacid Retard?

A: Official product information, based on clinical trial data, indicates that the most commonly reported reactions (seen in geq 3% of patients) include headache, dizziness, dyspepsia (stomach discomfort or indigestion), and nausea. Regulatory documents share this information so patients are generally aware of these possibilities.


Q: Is it normal to feel dizzy or drowsy after taking this medicine?

A: Yes, official drug labels list reactions such as dizziness and somnolence (drowsiness) among the Central Nervous System (CNS) effects that have been reported. Official labeling cautions patients about these potential effects in the context of driving and operating machinery.


Q: Does Inacid Retard affect sleep?

A: While not a primary effect, regulatory information lists insomnia (difficulty falling or staying asleep) as a reported Central Nervous System side effect of this medicine. Concerns about changes to sleep can be reviewed with a healthcare professional.


Q: Are there any dietary restrictions while using Inacid Retard?

A: Official documents primarily advise taking the medicine with food to help reduce potential gastrointestinal discomfort. Regulatory sources also note a risk increase when combining the medicine with alcohol. They do not generally specify broader dietary restrictions.


Q: Does Inacid Retard interact with common over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen?

A: Official labeling includes a caution against combining this medicine with other NSAIDs because this greatly increases the risk of serious gastrointestinal problems. Regulatory sources do not typically list an interaction with acetaminophen (paracetamol).


Q: What is the evidence or research behind using Inacid Retard for its main purpose?

A: The official approvals for this medicine are based on clinical studies that demonstrated its effectiveness for its labeled purposes. Regulatory documents state it is approved for treating specific types of arthritis, bursitis, and gout, supported by evidence from these trials.


Q: Is Inacid Retard safe for people with stomach ulcers or a history of them?

A: Official documents indicate that patients with a prior history of peptic ulcers or gastrointestinal bleeding have a greater risk for serious stomach-related events. The drug is associated with a risk of GI bleeding, ulceration, and perforation. The decision for use in this population is determined by a healthcare provider due to the heightened risk.


Q: Why do some people say they have stomach issues when using Inacid Retard?

A: The medicine belongs to the NSAID class, which works by inhibiting certain natural substances in the body. Official warnings explain that this class of drugs is known to increase the risk of serious gastrointestinal events, which can include inflammation, bleeding, and ulcers in the stomach and intestines. Official prescribing information recommends that the medicine be taken with or immediately after food.


Q: Does Inacid Retard affect fertility in men or women?

A: Official labeling for NSAIDs notes that based on the way they work in the body (by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis), use may delay or temporarily prevent the rupture of ovarian follicles. This effect has been associated with reversible infertility in some studies.


Q: Can Inacid Retard cause headaches as a side effect?

A: Yes, regulatory documents list headache as one of the most frequently reported adverse reactions. Official clinical data note that this effect was observed in a significant percentage of people using the medicine.


Q: Is there a risk of dependency or addiction with Inacid Retard?

A: Inacid Retard is an NSAID, which is not classified as a narcotic or a controlled substance. Regulatory classifications for the active drug, indomethacin, do not include a risk of dependency or addiction.


Q: Does Inacid Retard cause weight gain or weight loss?

A: Official labeling lists edema (swelling due to fluid retention) and weight gain as reported adverse reactions. These effects are related to the medicine's influence on the body's cardiovascular and metabolic systems.


Q: Can Inacid Retard be used if I am planning to become pregnant?

A: Official information provides specific warnings against using the medicine, particularly starting at mathbf20 weeks gestation and later, due to documented risks. These risks include potential for fetal kidney problems and potential for premature closure of the fetal ductus arteriosus.


Q: How is Inacid Retard cleared from the kidneys or liver?

A: According to official pharmacokinetic data, the active drug, indomethacin, is mainly processed (metabolized) in the liver. It is then eliminated from the body through both the urine (via the kidneys) and the feces.


Q: What kind of monitoring might be needed while taking Inacid Retard for a while?

A: Regulatory documents state that patients on long-term therapy may require periodic laboratory monitoring. This monitoring often includes checking blood cell counts (for potential bleeding issues) and assessing kidney (renal) and liver (hepatic) function.


Q: Is Inacid Retard a generic or a brand name medicine?

A: Inacid Retard is one specific brand name used for the medicine containing the active drug indomethacin. The drug indomethacin itself is available in various forms globally under both its generic name and other brand names.


Q: Can Inacid Retard be used to treat a fever?

A: The official FDA indications for the extended-release capsule formulation do not list fever as a primary approved use. This formulation is approved by regulatory bodies for managing pain and inflammation related to conditions such as certain types of arthritis.


Q: What are the pharmacological characteristics of the 'Retard' formulation?

A: The 'Retard' designation indicates a sustained-release formulation. This capsule is specifically designed to release the active drug slowly over an extended period. This design allows for a prolonged effect and a less-frequent, typically once-daily, administration schedule.


Q: Is there a risk of allergic reaction to Inacid Retard?

A: Yes, official documents explicitly warn about the risk of serious allergic reactions, including severe reactions like anaphylaxis. Its use is contraindicated (prohibited) for anyone who has had a prior allergic-type reaction to aspirin or any other NSAID medicine.


Q: Does Inacid Retard have a 'black box warning' in the US?

A: Yes, official US regulatory information for indomethacin includes a Boxed Warning (often called a 'black box warning'). This warning highlights the risk of serious cardiovascular (CV) thrombotic events (such as heart attack or stroke) and serious gastrointestinal (GI) adverse events (including bleeding and perforation).


Q: Can Inacid Retard be used by people with asthma?

A: Official regulatory documents state that the medicine is contraindicated in patients who have a history of asthma, hives, or other allergic-type reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs. This is due to the potential for severe, life-threatening reactions.


Q: Is Inacid Retard known to cause mood changes?

A: The official labeling lists depression and psychic disturbances (including mental confusion and psychotic episodes) among the reported Central Nervous System adverse reactions. It's noted that these types of effects can occur.


Q: What are the official storage recommendations for Inacid Retard?

A: Official storage recommendations generally advise keeping the medicine at a controlled room temperature, typically between 20 to 25 C (68 to 77 F). The labeling advises keeping the medicine stored in its original container and away from moisture.


Q: What does official labeling say about taking Inacid Retard with food?

A: Official documents consistently state that the medicine is recommended to be taken with food, immediately after food, or with antacids. This instruction is provided to help reduce the potential for gastrointestinal adverse effects.


Q: What are the ingredients of Inacid Retard besides the main drug?

A: Regulatory documents list the inactive ingredients (excipients) used in the capsule formulation. These are non-medicinal substances that help form the capsule, and typically include materials like ethylcellulose, cellulose, and various dyes.


Q: How quickly should I expect to feel the effect of Inacid Retard?

A: According to clinical data, the maximum concentration of the active drug in the blood is typically reached within about 2 hours after taking the sustained-release capsule. The time required to feel the full intended therapeutic effect may vary.


Q: Is Inacid Retard suitable for long-term use?

A: Official regulatory documents consistently advise that the medicine should be used at the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration possible. Warnings note that the risk of serious cardiovascular and gastrointestinal adverse events increases with the duration of use.


Q: Are there any blood pressure concerns with taking Inacid Retard?

A: Yes, official information indicates that NSAIDs, including this medicine, can potentially cause new hypertension (high blood pressure) or worsen existing high blood pressure. Regulatory documents recommend that blood pressure be monitored in patients using this medicine.


Q: How does the 'Retard' formulation change how long the medication stays in the body?

A: The 'Retard' (sustained-release) formulation is specifically designed to release the drug over a prolonged time frame compared to immediate-release forms. This design ensures the drug remains in the body long enough to support a once or twice daily dosing regimen for extended effect.


Q: What is the timeframe of the medication's effect (duration)?

A: Because the medicine is a sustained-release formulation, it is generally dosed only once daily for chronic management. This indicates a desired duration of effect that supports the full 24-hour dosing interval between doses.

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How should Inacid Retard be stored and disposed of?

Storage and Disposal Requirements

Official regulatory documents define strict criteria for the storage and disposal of Indomethacin extended-release capsules.

Storage Component Requirement
Temperature Store at controlled room temperature (15°C to 30°C or 59°F to 86°F).
Protection Keep tightly closed in the original, light-resistant container. Protect from heat, freezing, and excess moisture.
Handling/Safety Keep the medication out of the sight and reach of children. Do not store in the bathroom.
Disposal Safely dispose of unused or expired medicine. Preferred methods include using a drug take-back program. If placed in household trash, mix the medicine with an unappealing substance, place it in a sealed bag, and discard.
Stability Do not keep outdated medicine. Indomethacin for Injection solution must be discarded immediately after use.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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