Drug interactions
Captopril + Indomethacin
Severity: Major
Captopril and Indomethacin: major interaction.
Last updated Sources: US FDA label
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Summary
Indomethacin can reduce the antihypertensive effect of captopril and may worsen renal function, especially in elderly, dehydrated or renally impaired patients. Hyperkalemia can also occur.
What this interaction means in plain words
Captopril and Indomethacin can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for.
Captopril belongs to Cardiovascular; Indomethacin belongs to Musculoskeletal.
Why it happens
Inhibition of renal prostaglandin synthesis by the NSAID counteracts ACE inhibitor vasodilation and reduces glomerular filtration.
What to do
Use an alternative analgesic where possible. If coadministered, maintain hydration and monitor blood pressure, serum creatinine and potassium.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Does the benefit of taking both outweigh the risk in my case?
- Do I need any blood test, ECG or other check while on both?
- What early warning signs should I watch for, and what should I do if they appear?
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References
Other interactions of Indomethacin
- Indomethacin + Ketorolac Contraindicated
- Indomethacin + Ketorolac intranasal Contraindicated
- Aceclofenac + Indomethacin Major
- Acemetacin + Indomethacin Major
- Acetylsalicylic acid + Indomethacin Major
- Alteplase + Indomethacin Major
Other interactions of Captopril
- Aliskiren + Captopril Contraindicated
- Captopril + Sacubitril / valsartan Contraindicated
- Captopril + Sacubitril-valsartan Contraindicated
- Amifostine + Captopril Major
- Amiloride + Captopril Major
- Amlodipine-hydrochlorothiazide-valsartan + Captopril Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Captopril with Indomethacin?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Captopril and Indomethacin can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for. Indomethacin can reduce the antihypertensive effect of captopril and may worsen renal function, especially in elderly, dehydrated or renally impaired patients. Hyperkalemia can also occur.
How serious is the interaction between Captopril and Indomethacin?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Use an alternative analgesic where possible. If coadministered, maintain hydration and monitor blood pressure, serum creatinine and potassium.
What other medicines interact with Indomethacin?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Indomethacin with, for example, Ketorolac, Ketorolac intranasal, Aceclofenac. The full list is on the Indomethacin page.
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