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Peripheral neuropathy and indomethacin
Abstract:
A patient with seronegative inflammatory polyarthritis developed a predominantly motorperipheral neuropathy associated with the use of indomethacin. Three other cases of peripheral neuropathy associated with indomethacin treatment have been reported to the Committee on Safety of Medicines. In all cases the neuropathy regressed when indomethacinwas stopped. Peripheral neuropathy should be recognized as a rare complication of indomethacin therapy and considered in the differential diagnosis of a neuropathy accompanyingrheumatoid arthritis.
Insights
Indomethacin, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, may cause peripheral neuropathy, a rare nerve complication. Symptoms resolved after discontinuing indomethacin, suggesting a causal link.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Rheumatology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Seronegative inflammatory polyarthritis is a condition requiring anti-inflammatory treatment.
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like indomethacin are commonly used for inflammatory conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a case of peripheral neuropathy associated with indomethacin use.
- To highlight the potential neurotoxic effects of indomethacin.
Main Methods:
- Case report of a patient with inflammatory polyarthritis.
- Review of reported cases of neuropathy linked to indomethacin.
Main Results:
- A patient developed a motor-predominant peripheral neuropathy during indomethacin therapy.
- Three additional cases of peripheral neuropathy were reported to the Committee on Safety of Medicines.
- Neuropathy symptoms improved upon cessation of indomethacin in all reported instances.
Conclusions:
- Peripheral neuropathy is a rare but potential adverse effect of indomethacin.
- Indomethacin-induced neuropathy should be considered in patients with rheumatoid arthritis presenting with neurological symptoms.