Jolindac

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Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 10/01/2026

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.

Overview of Jolindac

Jolindac is a prescription-only medication primarily used to manage symptoms related to inflammation, classified as a Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug (NSAID). Its active ingredient is Sulindac, a compound structurally categorized as a synthetic indene derivative. The medicine's general therapeutic purpose is to reduce swelling, relieve pain (analgesic effect), and lower an elevated body temperature (antipyretic effect).


Quick Facts

Property Description
Active ingredient Sulindac
Form Tablet
Pharmacological class Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug (NSAID)
General purpose Anti-inflammatory, Analgesic, Antipyretic
Origin Synthetic (Indene Derivative)

What Type of Medicine is Jolindac?

Jolindac belongs to the Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug (NSAID) class, which are medications that primarily work by modifying the inflammatory process in the body. Medications in this class function to reduce fever and decrease pain and inflammation, providing generalized symptom relief for discomfort.

This medication is chemically identified as an acetic acid derivative, belonging to the Anti-inflammatory and Antirheumatic Products category. This drug class operates by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis, a process critical for initiating inflammation and pain signals. Jolindac is clinically recognized for its therapeutic effects in managing discomfort associated with acute or chronic inflammatory conditions.


What is the Composition and Form of Jolindac?

Jolindac is a single-ingredient product formulated for oral administration, most commonly provided in the dosage form of a tablet.

The core component is the active ingredient, Sulindac, which uniquely functions as a prodrug. This means the substance taken orally is initially inactive; it must be converted by the liver into its sulfide metabolite—the pharmacologically active form—before it can deliver its therapeutic effects. Sulindac is rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and activated, which allows the drug to reach its target site. The active metabolite then achieves its effect through nonselective inhibition of cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, thereby providing the anti-inflammatory and pain relief associated with this class of medication.

Regulatory References

  1. Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) - NIH

What side effects are possible with Jolindac?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information for Jolindac

Official regulatory documents classify the safety profile of Jolindac by documenting adverse reactions according to their incidence rate and the specific body systems affected. This structure is intended to provide a comprehensive, fact-based overview of the medicine's risks.


Adverse Reactions Scope

The full scope of possible side effects is defined using a standard regulatory frequency framework (e.g., Very Common, Common, Uncommon, Rare) and is organized by System-Organ Class (SOC).

  • Frequency Classification: Adverse events are systematically listed across all incidence categories, from ge 1/10 (Very Common) to the least frequent ge 1/10,000 (Rare) and those whose incidence cannot be reliably estimated (Not Known).
  • System-Organ Classes Involved: Documented side effects have been reported across various body systems, including Blood and Lymphatic System Disorders, Gastrointestinal Disorders, Nervous System Disorders, and Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders.

Serious Adverse Reactions and Restrictions

Serious adverse reactions (SARs) represent events that are severe, life-threatening, or require hospitalization, and are explicitly documented by regulatory authorities.

  • Serious Adverse Reactions: The regulatory profile includes specified SARs that mandate mandatory reporting and close monitoring during the course of treatment.
  • Safety-Related Restrictions: Formal limitations on use, known as Contraindications, are established where the risk outweighs the benefit (e.g., in patients with a history of hypersensitivity or certain severe pre-existing conditions).

Population-Specific Safety Considerations

The official label contains specific information regarding the use of Jolindac in particular patient groups:

  • Specific Populations: Caution or dose adjustment is required for patients with documented severe renal impairment or hepatic insufficiency, or in specific age groups, based on clinical data assessments.
  • High-Level Safety Monitoring: The regulatory documents specify mandatory pre-treatment assessments or ongoing laboratory monitoring (e.g., of liver enzymes or blood cell counts) that must be performed during therapy.

This structured regulatory profile defines the comprehensive risk assessment, formalizing the safety limitations and required medical oversight for Jolindac as determined by government authorities.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and When to Seek Help

This section describes the officially documented clinical manifestations and regulator-mandated emergency actions for Jolindac (Sulindac) overdose, based strictly on government regulatory documents.

Overdose Scope

Domain Official Regulatory Statements
Documented overdose presentations Manifestations may include gastrointestinal disturbances (nausea, vomiting, bloody vomiting, abdominal pain), severe headache, drowsiness, confusion, seizures, unsteadiness, blurred vision, and ringing in the ears (Tinnitus).
Physiological systems affected (as stated in label) Gastrointestinal system (bleeding), Central Nervous System (seizures, coma), Renal system (acute renal failure), and Cardiovascular system (hypotension/shock).
Emergency-response statements (as written in official documents) Contact the Poison Control Help Line or Emergency Services (911) immediately upon known or suspected overdose. Treatment is primarily symptomatic and supportive.
When immediate medical help is required (label-derived phrasing only) Immediate medical attention must be sought if the individual has collapsed, experienced a seizure, has trouble breathing, or cannot be awakened.

Overdose Classifications (High-Level)

Classification Axis Official Regulatory Statements
Severity classification (as defined in official documents) Overdose can lead to severe or life-threatening outcomes, including coma, shock, metabolic acidosis, and acute renal failure.
Overdose-context constraints (as defined in official documents) No specific antidote is formally documented in the regulatory label for Sulindac overdose.
Population-specific overdose notes (if applicable) Individuals with pre-existing kidney or liver disease are documented as being at a higher risk of developing serious adverse effects or worsening of their condition following NSAID overdose.

Resulting Overdose Structure

Official overdose statements:

  • Clinical signs such as bloody vomiting, severe headache, confusion, and tinnitus are formally documented as potential overdose manifestations.
  • The risk of life-threatening events includes acute renal failure, significant GI bleeding, and cardiovascular shock.
  • Required supportive measures include monitoring of vital signs, ECG, and the use of activated charcoal and IV fluids.

Connection to the overall overdose profile (2–4 sentences):

Regulatory documents define the Jolindac overdose profile by explicitly listing the expected clinical manifestations and the potential for severe systemic outcomes affecting the kidneys, GI tract, and CNS. This profile dictates that official management is limited to symptomatic and supportive treatment, given the documented constraint that no specific antidote is available. Consequently, the regulatory guidance emphasizes the mandated requirement to contact emergency services immediately upon the observance of specific critical symptoms.

Therapeutic Uses of Jolindac

What Jolindac Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

Jolindac is applied across domains where additional symptomatic support is needed in situations involving certain distressing symptoms. It is relevant for managing symptom clusters that may become intense or disruptive, and is applied in scenarios where additional management of discomfort is required. The medication’s primary role is symptomatic management of inflammatory conditions.

This is commonly used across conditions presenting with systemic or localized discomfort, for example, rheumatoid arthritis (RA), osteoarthritis (OA), ankylosing spondylitis (AS), acute gouty arthritis, bursitis, and tendinitis.

“It is commonly used across conditions characterized by periods of heightened symptoms.”

It contributes to improved comfort during periods of heightened symptoms and may help patients cope more steadily with symptom fluctuations.


Quick Fact: Support for Inflammatory Symptoms

Symptom Axes Managed Therapeutic Benefit
Pain and Tenderness Is commonly used to help with symptomatic relief (analgesia).
Swelling and Edema Assists with easing the overall symptom load.
Elevated Body Temperature Is commonly used to help with fever (antipyresis).
Joint Stiffness Assists with maintaining functional stability.

Regulatory References

  1. NIH MedlinePlus Drug Information overview

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Jolindac (Sulindac) is an NSAID primarily approved for use in adults for various inflammatory conditions. Official regulatory labeling defines several populations who are either prohibited from use or require conditional use.

Eligibility Restrictions

Classification Population or Condition
Contraindicated Patients with known hypersensitivity to Sulindac or those who have experienced allergic reactions (e.g., asthma, urticaria) to aspirin or other NSAIDs.
Contraindicated Treatment of peri-operative pain in the setting of Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) surgery.
Contraindicated Pregnant women at or after 20 weeks of gestation (due to risk of fetal renal and cardiac issues).
Not Established Pediatric Population (Safety and effectiveness have not been established).
Conditional Use Older adults (Geriatric) due to a greater risk for serious gastrointestinal events; dose adjustment and close monitoring are required.
Conditional Use Patients with renal impairment, hepatic impairment, heart failure, or a history of GI bleeding require use with caution and monitoring.

Pregnancy and Lactation Eligibility

Use is prohibited from 20 weeks of pregnancy onward. The use of Jolindac during breastfeeding requires a decision based on weighing potential risks against benefits, as it is not definitively known if the active ingredient passes into human milk.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

Jolindac (Sulindac) has officially documented interaction patterns based on regulatory labeling, classified into pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic categories. It 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 similar reactions precipitated by aspirin or other NSAIDs.

Documented Pharmacodynamic Interactions

Co-administration with other Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), oral corticosteroids, or anticoagulant agents significantly increases the risk of serious gastrointestinal events, including bleeding and ulceration. Furthermore, Jolindac may diminish the antihypertensive and natriuretic effects of ACE Inhibitors, Angiotensin II Receptor Antagonists, and Diuretics.

Documented Pharmacokinetic Interactions

Jolindac affects the plasma concentrations of certain co-administered drugs. It may elevate the plasma levels of Lithium and Methotrexate by reducing their renal clearance. Conversely, combination with Acetylsalicylic Acid (Aspirin) may result in a decrease in the plasma concentration of sulindac's active metabolite. A mandatory timing restriction requires the suspension of Jolindac around the administration of Pemetrexed.

Population and Substance Considerations

Alcohol (Ethanol) consumption is noted as a risk factor that increases the likelihood of serious gastrointestinal adverse events. Regulatory documents also note that elderly patients are at greater risk for serious gastrointestinal complications, and those with hepatic impairment may experience higher concentrations of the active metabolite.

Mechanism of Action

The Core Mechanism: Blocking Prostaglandin Synthesis

The drug's primary action begins when its metabolically activated form, Sulindac sulfide, reversibly inhibits the Cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes (both COX-1 and COX-2). By blocking these enzymes, the drug cuts off the upstream production of pro-inflammatory prostaglandins and related mediators from the Arachidonic Acid Cascade. This suppression results in a decreased level of signaling molecules associated with heightened physiological responses.

The Prodrug Requirement and Initiation Constraint

Jolindac functions as an inactive prodrug, meaning it requires mandatory metabolic reduction—primarily in the liver—to become the potent sulfide metabolite needed for enzyme inhibition. This necessary biological conversion makes the mechanism entirely dependent on the body’s metabolic status, influencing the time required for the active molecule to reach sufficient concentration to initiate modulation of the targeted pathways.

Central and Peripheral Cascade Translation

The mechanism acts across both peripheral inflammation sites and the central nervous system. Peripherally, the reduction in prostaglandins limits vasodilation and decreases the sensitization of pain receptors in damaged tissue. Centrally, the lack of PGE2 synthesis in the hypothalamus removes the chemical signal that elevates the body's internal thermostat, leading to the suppression of the PGE2 signal that sets the elevated core temperature.

Dosage and Administration Information

How Jolindac is Used: Official Administration Guidelines

Jolindac (Sulindac) is supplied in a tablet form and is designated for oral administration. Official prescribing documents provide specific, structured instructions for dosing and duration, which must be followed precisely.


Administration Scope

Instruction Entity Detail
Route of administration Oral (by mouth).
Standard Dosing Regimen The maximum recommended daily dose is 400 mg.
Frequency and timing Dosing is typically twice daily (b.i.d.), with the total daily amount divided into two equal doses.
Timing in relation to meals Must be taken with food, milk, or a full glass of water (e.g., 8–12 oz).
Age-group administration rules Pediatric Use: Safety and efficacy have not been established for use in patients under 18 years of age.
Missed-dose rules If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered. If it is nearly time for the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double the dose.

Treatment Duration and Adjustments

Usage Type Dosing Instruction and Duration Principle
Chronic Conditions The initial dose is typically 150 mg twice daily. Treatment should utilize the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible duration.
Acute Conditions Initial dose is typically 200 mg twice daily. For acute gouty arthritis, 7 days is usually adequate. For acute painful shoulder (bursitis/tendinitis), 7 to 14 days is usually adequate.
Special Populations Patients with impaired renal or hepatic function should be closely monitored and may require a reduced daily dosage.

Connection to the overall use protocol:

The official instructions establish a standardized oral dosing protocol that requires the tablets to be taken with food, ensuring correct administration timing and context. This procedural structure mandates a twice-daily schedule with a 400 mg daily limit and strictly constrains the duration, differentiating between time-limited acute use and chronic use that necessitates the lowest effective dose.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of Studies for Jolindac


Evidence for Use in Chronic Inflammatory Arthritides

The original research conducted for use in chronic conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis primarily involved Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs). These studies were evaluated in adults living with these long-term inflammatory conditions. Researchers focused on tracking outcomes related to physical discomfort, such as changes in joint pain, tenderness, and localized swelling, and monitored how these symptoms evolved in the observed populations over specific time intervals. Research has also explored outcomes reflecting daily functioning or activity level in these trials.

Further research and long-term observational analyses was applied in studies examining patient-reported experiences. Studies examined measures of joint stiffness. The evidence provides context regarding symptom patterns where the conditions may vary in intensity.

Evidence for Use in Acute Inflammatory Conditions

Jolindac was evaluated in settings relevant in trials assessing short-term or episodic symptom patterns, specifically for conditions characterized by acute or disruptive episodes like acute gouty arthritis, bursitis, and tendinitis. The research primarily involved short-term clinical trials.

These trials focused on outcomes describing episodic or acute changes. Researchers monitored how symptoms evolved over time during a flare-up, examining outcomes linked to inflammatory or irritative states such as acute swelling and intense pain. The evidence contributes to the broader evidence landscape regarding the compound's application in conditions characterized by fluctuating or episodic manifestations.

What Is Still Uncertain or Under Research

A key point is that the sample sizes were modest in some original trials, and evidence quality varies across studies, particularly for less common conditions. Furthermore, data show patterns related to variability in how patients respond, which research does not fully explain. This means that while research describes usage patterns in group settings, research does not provide certainty regarding individual outcomes. Long-term effects are not fully established beyond a couple of years of follow-up, and follow-up durations were limited in many studies.

Key Studies & References

  1. Sulindac - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf (General Monograph & Indications)
  2. A Comprehensive Review of Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug Use in The Elderly (Special Populations)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Jolindac (FAQ)


Q: How long does it typically take for Jolindac to start working?

According to the official clinical pharmacology information, the initial therapeutic response to Jolindac is generally noted within one week after treatment has begun. Jolindac is a prodrug that requires metabolic conversion into its active form; this process accounts for the timeframe needed before the medicine can initiate its effect.


Q: Are there any common foods or drinks that should be avoided while using Jolindac?

Official patient instructions advise that Jolindac should be taken with food, milk, or a full glass of water for proper administration. While specific non-alcoholic foods are not detailed as restricted, excessive alcohol consumption is noted in regulatory documents as a risk factor that can increase the likelihood of serious gastrointestinal side effects.


Q: Can Jolindac affect the results of lab tests or blood work?

Yes, it may. Official guidelines specify that ongoing laboratory monitoring is required during therapy, including checks of liver enzymes and blood cell counts. This monitoring is necessary because the medicine has the potential to affect these functions.


Q: What steps should be taken if a user experiences a minor side effect from Jolindac?

Many common side effects of Jolindac are described as mild and may resolve on their own after a short time. If effects become more severe or do not go away, official instructions advise consulting a healthcare provider or pharmacist.


Q: Is it okay to use alcohol in moderation while on Jolindac?

Regulatory warnings indicate that alcohol consumption is a risk factor that can increase the likelihood of serious gastrointestinal adverse events, such as bleeding or ulcers. Because of this risk, official patient advisories often recommend that avoidance of alcohol should be considered, due to the increased risk.


Q: Can Jolindac be taken with common over-the-counter pain relievers?

Co-administration with other Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) significantly increases the risk of serious gastrointestinal events, according to drug interaction documents. Regulatory documents state that interactions with specific, non-NSAID over-the-counter pain relievers should be reviewed with a healthcare provider.


Q: Is there a version of Jolindac that is available as a generic medicine?

Yes. The active ingredient in Jolindac is Sulindac, which is the generic name for the medicine. Generic versions of Sulindac are widely available after the expiration of the original brand-name patent.


Q: Is it normal to feel a change in energy level when starting Jolindac?

Official regulatory documents list fatigue (a feeling of tiredness) and malaise (a general feeling of discomfort or illness) as documented adverse reactions. These effects are possible but their frequency is not classified.


Q: Is Jolindac known to cause drowsiness or affect driving?

Documented side effects affecting the nervous system include dizziness and drowsiness (somnolence). Official information indicates that caution should therefore be exercised regarding activities that require alertness, such as driving or operating heavy machinery.


Q: Can Jolindac cause sensitivity to the sun?

Yes. Regulatory documents specifically list increased sensitivity of the skin to sunlight (known as photosensitivity) as a possible adverse reaction to the medication.


Q: Are there any known long-term effects of taking Jolindac?

The US FDA has issued Boxed Warnings detailing serious risks, such as cardiovascular thrombotic events (like heart attack or stroke) and serious gastrointestinal complications, which are associated with the duration of use.


Q: Can Jolindac cause temporary weight changes?

Official documents list weight loss as a less common reported event. It is also noted that unexplained or sudden weight gain can be a symptom of fluid retention (edema) or heart failure, which are conditions that require medical attention.


Q: Is Jolindac approved for use in countries outside of the US/EU?

Yes. The medicine, Sulindac, is recognized and approved for use by various regulatory bodies globally, including the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) in Australia and other health authorities.


Q: Does Jolindac cause changes in mood or anxiety levels?

Adverse reactions listed under Psychiatric Disorders in official documents include nervousness (a common effect). Less frequently reported effects include depression, psychic disturbances, and confusion.


Q: How long does Jolindac stay in the body after the last dose?

The drug's time in the body is measured by its elimination half-life. According to clinical pharmacology information, the inactive Sulindac is eliminated with a half-life of approximately 7.8 hours. However, the active metabolite (the substance that performs the therapeutic action) has a longer half-life, around 16.4 hours.


Q: Are there different brand names for the medicine Jolindac?

Yes. The medicine whose active ingredient is Sulindac was originally marketed under the brand name Clinoril.


Q: Is Jolindac categorized as a controlled substance?

No. While Jolindac is a prescription-only medicine, it is not categorized as a controlled substance under the US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) schedules or similar international classifications.


Q: Does taking Jolindac affect fertility?

Official drug documents state that the use of Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) may impair female fertility. For women who are experiencing difficulties conceiving, the consideration of withdrawing the therapy is advised.


Q: Are there official patient guides for Jolindac available online?

Yes. Regulatory bodies, such as the US FDA, require that a Medication Guide (MedGuide) be dispensed with all NSAID prescriptions, providing essential safety information for patients. This guide is an official resource that is available to users.


Q: Is Jolindac often confused with another medicine?

Regulatory safety resources note that the original brand name of the drug has been associated with sound-alike or look-alike issues with other medications.


Q: Can Jolindac affect sleep patterns?

Official adverse reaction reports include insomnia (difficulty falling or staying asleep) as a documented, though unclassified by frequency, effect related to the use of the medicine.


Q: What are the different strengths or forms Jolindac is available in?

Jolindac is provided in the dosage form of an oral tablet. Official prescribing information indicates that it is typically available in multiple strengths, commonly including 150 mg and 200 mg tablets.

How should Jolindac be stored and disposed of?

Official Storage Requirements

Jolindac (Sulindac tablets) must be stored at Controlled Room Temperature, defined as 20 C to 25 C (68 F to 77 F), with permitted brief temperature excursions. The medicine must be kept away from freezing, excess heat, and moisture.

Protection is required from direct light. The product must remain in its dispensing container, and the container should be kept tightly closed.

Child Safety and Disposal

For safety, Jolindac must be kept out of the sight and reach of children in a secured location.

Unused or expired tablets should be disposed of using an official drug take-back or mail-back program. If these are unavailable, the medication may be mixed with an undesirable substance (do not crush) and sealed in a bag for disposal in household trash, as long as regulatory guidelines are followed. The tablets must not be flushed down the toilet.

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

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