What is this medication for?
Sulindac belongs to the class of medications called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Medications in this class are used to reduce inflammation, swelling, and pain. Sulindac works by reducing the natural chemicals that are produced by the body in response to injury. It is used to relieve the symptoms, including swelling and pain, of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis in adults. This medication may also be used to treat acute shoulder pain and gouty arthritis.
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed here. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all of the conditions discussed here. If you are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.
Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to take this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it.
What form(s) does this medication come in?
Clinoril® is available as:
Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.
How should I use this medication?
Arthritis in adults: The recommended dose is 150 mg taken twice daily. The maximum recommended dose is 200 mg taken twice daily.
Acute shoulder pain or acute gouty arthritis: The recommended dose is 200 mg taken twice daily. Usually a treatment period of 7 to 14 days is adequate for the pain to subside.
Sulindac should be taken with food and a full glass of water. Sulindac should be used at the lowest possible dose and for the shortest possible period of time needed to relieve symptoms.
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
It is important that this medication be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you are not sure what to do after missing a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
Store this medication at room temperature, protect it from light and moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children.
Who should NOT take this medication?
Sulindac should not be taken by anyone who:
- is allergic to sulindac or to any of the ingredients of this medication
- is planning to have or recently had open heart or bypass surgery
- has asthma, hives, or allergic reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs (e.g., naproxen, ibuprofen, diclofenac, rofecoxib, meloxicam)