Acemetacin is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug. It is also known as an NSAID. It works by blocking a substance in the body called cyclooxygenase (also known as COX) which is involved in the production of certain irritant chemicals in response to injury or rheumatic disease. By blocking the action of COX, Acemetacin reduces the symptoms of pain and inflammation.

Acemetacin is indicated in

• Pain & inflammation associated with musculoskeletal & joint disorders. Such as: Rheumatoid arthritis, Osteoarthritis, Low back pain.
• Pain after an operation.

The recommended starting dose is 120mg/day in divided doses, increasing to 180mg/day in divided doses, depending on patient response. For the treatment of elderly patients, adjustment of dosage is not normally required. However, NSAIDs should be used with particular care in older patients who may be more prone to adverse reactions. Acemetacin should be taken with food, milk or an antacid to reduce the possibility of gastro-intestinal disturbance

Acemetacin is contraindicated to known hypersensitivity to Acemetacin or Indomethacin; peptic ulcer; safety in children is not established.

Common side effects include anorexia, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and constipation, peptic ulceration, headache, dizziness & vertigo. Rarely confusion, depressed mood, oedema, chest pain, blood urea elevation are found.

Pregnancy & Lactation

The safety of this medicine in human pregnancy and lactation has not been established. Some animal reproduction studies showed some toxic/ teratogenic effects on fetus. Therefore, use of this drug during pregnancy and lactation period is not recommended.

Precautions & Warnings

Caution should be taken in elderly people, history of disorders affecting the stomach or intestines, inflammatory bowel disease such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, kidney disease, liver disease, heart failure.