Sulindac

About sulindac

Sulindac is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (known as an NSAID) which is used to relieve pain and inflammation. It works by preventing the production of irritant chemicals known as prostaglandins which are produced in response to injury and certain diseases and conditions. Prostaglandins cause pain, swelling and inflammation in the body, so stopping the production of these prostaglandins results in less pain and inflammation.

Before taking sulindac

Before taking sulindac make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you have liver or kidney problems, or have ever had kidney stones.
• If you have a heart condition.
• If you have ever had a peptic (stomach) or duodenal (bowel) ulcer or bleeding.
• If you have an allergic condition or have ever had an allergy.
• If you have a blood clotting disorder.
• If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this medicine, aspirin, or any other NSAID (for example diclofenac, ibuprofen, naproxen, indometacin).

How to take sulindac

• Before beginning treatment you should read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
• Take sulindac exactly as directed by your doctor. Take your dose with a glass of milk or after eating food. Drink plenty of water while you are taking sulindac.
• Try to take sulindac at the same times each day to avoid missing any doses.
• If you forget to take a dose, take one as soon as you remember unless it is nearly time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at the same time to make up.

Getting the most from your treatment

• If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.
• If you are taking sulindac for gout and your symptoms have not improved within 7 days, you should let you doctor know.
• Sulindac may colour your urine. This is completely harmless and is no cause for you to be concerned.
• In people with asthma, sulindac may cause a worsening of symptoms. Stop taking sulindac and contact your doctor if this happens.
• If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with sulindac.

Can sulindac cause problems?

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects. These usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine but speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

• If you experience any sign of bleeding in the stomach or intestine such as blood in vomit or black stools, speak with your doctor immediately or go to your local accident and emergency department.
• If you experience any shortness of breath, skin rash or swelling of the mouth or face, speak with your doctor immediately or go to your local accident and emergency department.
• If you experience any yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes along with a high temperature, speak with your doctor immediately or go to your local accident and emergency department.
  
  

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store sulindac

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines