Sulindac is a generic-type medication, which is characterized by its anti-inflammatory properties , working as an analgesic for a series of well-known disorders that affect many people.
For these reasons, in the following article we will introduce you to the most essential functions of sulindac, in addition to its adverse effects, contraindications, and details on its correct use.
What is sulindac?
Sulindac is a generic drug, whose active principle is of the same name or also known as sulindac. Its mechanism of action is to act as an antirheumatic without steroids (which prevents joint damage), with fast actions and high tolerance.
It should be noted that this medication comes in the presentation of 200 mg tablets of the active compound, with an oral route of administration and doses that start from 200 mg to a maximum of 400 mg per day.
Important: A study adds that: “Sulindac should be taken twice a day and the dose should be adjusted to the severity of the disease” . (1)
What is sulindac used for?
Sulindac is a rather special drug, which is used to complement treatments for both acute and chronic joint diseases, among which are the following:
1. Arthritis and osteoarthritis
This medicine works for the treatment of arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and acute gouty arthritis, generally treating weakness in the articular cartilage or swelling thereof, for which sulindac provides relief from pain and inflammation due to its anti-inflammatory effects. .
Of note: Sulindac is also strongly recommended for osteoarthritis , the most common type of arthritis, which occurs in the protective cartilage attached to bone (and wears away over time), for which this drug is indicated now that the disorder presents a lot of frequent pain, which sulindac is able to alleviate.
2. Bursitis and tendinitis
Sulindac works for shoulder cartilage, since bursitis is inflammation that mainly affects the synovial bag (which promotes joint movement), although it can also affect knees and hips, which is why this medication is used as an anti-inflammatory analgesic. either in chronic or acute cases.
On the other hand, sulindac is used to reduce inflammation caused by tendonitis , a condition that affects the tendons itself, sometimes caused by arthritis as well as by injuries or inappropriate movements.
3. Ankylosing spondylitis and gout
Ankylosing spondylitis (commonly abbreviated as EA) is a rare disorder that affects the back or spine . Basically it is inflammation and chronic pain in the spinal cord, when making common movements.
Note: Sulindac is also used for gout (causing tendonitis), which consists of very sudden attacks or pain in the joints , accompanied by hypersensitivity, for this reason a medication such as sulindac is necessary to serve as an analgesic, in case that the gout is prolonging.
Sulindac Side Effects
This medicine is accompanied by several adverse effects , so it is important not to neglect its manifestations at any time, these effects are the following:
- Gastrointestinal spasms, dyspepsia ( indigestion ), nausea, vomiting, anorexia, and constipation .
- Rash (skin eruption)
- Weakness in the muscles.
- Edema ( fluid retention ).
- Decreased hearing and blurred vision.
You should know: One study mentions that: “The majority of fatal spontaneous gastrointestinal events due to sulindac have been observed in elderly subjects and in patients with debilitating diseases.” . (two)
Sulindac Contraindications
This drug is contraindicated in a certain number of patients who, if necessary, should see a doctor to receive recommendations regarding the use of the drug; however, sulindac should not be administered in:
- Patients hypersensitive to the active substance and acetylsalicylic acid (an anti-inflammatory for blood flow in the knees).
- People with asthma attacks and intestinal bleeding.
- Pregnant women and children.
- Actively peptic ulcer (a disorder of sores in the lining of the stomach or small intestine).
Important: A study indicates that: “Tables of toxic pneumonitis have been described, whose doses of sulindac are 20 mg per day, but even so, a consumption of even 600 mg per day is not recommended” . (3)
Key Findings
- Sulindac is a medication that serves as an analgesic and an anti-inflammatory which comes in tablet form.
- It is effective for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis , tendonitis, and gout.
- It can have adverse effects such as skin rashes and gastric spasms.
- It is contraindicated for hypersensitive patients, pregnant women and children.
- The use of sulindac must be indicated and supervised by a specialist doctor , to avoid possible complications.
University Professional in the area of Human Resources, Postgraduate in Occupational Health and Hygiene of the Work Environment, 14 years of experience in the area of health. Interested in topics of Psychology, Occupational Health, and General Medicine.