Naprosyn

naproxen

Brand(s):

• Naprosyn

Manufacturer:

• RPG Life Sciences Ltd

Disease(s):

• Rheumatoid Arthritis / Osteoarthritis / Ankylosing Spondylitis / Juvenile Arthritis / Tendonitis / Bursitis / Gout / Menstrual Cramps

Known as:

• Aleve / Anaprox / Naprelan / Naprosyn / Prevacid NapraPAC

Naproxen Tablets

What is Naproxen?

Naproxen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It works by reducing swelling and relieving pain. Common uses include managing dental pain, headaches, menstrual cramps, and pain stemming from joint and muscle problems such as arthritis, tendinitis, bursitis, and gout.

Important Information for Your Doctor

Before starting naproxen, be sure to inform your healthcare provider if you have any of the following conditions:

• Asthma
• Are a cigarette smoker
• Consume more than three alcoholic beverages daily
• Heart disease or circulatory problems (e.g., heart failure, leg edema)
• High blood pressure
• Kidney disease
• Liver disease
• History of stomach bleeding or ulcers
• Known allergies to naproxen, aspirin, other NSAIDs, medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• Are pregnant or planning to become pregnant
• Are breastfeeding

This information helps your doctor assess the safety and suitability of naproxen for your specific situation.

How to Take Naproxen

Take naproxen by mouth with a full glass of water. If stomach upset occurs, take it with food. Avoid lying down for at least 10 minutes after taking a dose. Take your doses at evenly spaced intervals, following the prescribed schedule. Do not exceed the recommended dosage. Prolonged, continuous use of naproxen may increase the risk of heart attack or stroke.

Parents should consult their pediatrician before giving naproxen to children; special considerations may apply.

Overdose: In case of a suspected overdose, contact a poison control center or emergency room immediately.

Personal Use Only: Do not share your medication with others.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Never double up on doses.

Potential Drug Interactions

Naproxen can interact with several other medications. It's crucial to inform your healthcare provider about all medications, herbs, over-the-counter drugs, and dietary supplements you're currently using. This includes tobacco and alcohol use.

• Alcohol
• Aspirin
• Cidofovir
• Diuretics
• Lithium
• Methotrexate
• Other anti-inflammatory drugs (e.g., ketorolac, prednisone)
• Pemetrexed
• Probenecid
• Warfarin

Monitoring Your Health While on Naproxen

If your pain persists despite taking naproxen, consult your doctor. Do not self-treat. Avoid taking other pain relievers without your doctor's approval.

Important Note: Naproxen does not prevent heart attacks or strokes. In fact, it might increase the risk, especially with prolonged use or in individuals with existing heart conditions. Discuss this with your doctor, particularly if you take aspirin for cardiovascular protection.

Avoid ibuprofen while taking naproxen; this combination increases the risk of stomach upset, nausea, and ulcers.

Naproxen can cause stomach and intestinal ulcers and bleeding at any time. Avoid smoking and alcohol, as these irritate the stomach and increase the risk of damage from naproxen. Ulcers and bleeding can be life-threatening and may occur without warning symptoms.

Drowsiness or dizziness may occur. Avoid driving, operating machinery, or engaging in activities requiring alertness until you know how naproxen affects you. Avoid sudden changes in posture, especially if you're older, to reduce the risk of dizziness or fainting.

Naproxen can increase bleeding tendency. Be gentle when brushing and flossing your teeth.

Possible Side Effects

Report to your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following serious side effects:

• Black or bloody stools; blood in urine or vomit
• Blurred vision
• Chest pain
• Difficulty breathing or wheezing
• Nausea or vomiting
• Severe stomach pain
• Skin rash, redness, blistering, peeling, hives, or itching
• Slurred speech or weakness on one side of the body
• Swelling of eyelids, throat, or lips
• Unexplained weight gain or swelling
• Unusual weakness or fatigue
• Yellowing of eyes or skin

Side effects that usually don't require immediate medical attention (but should be reported to your doctor if persistent or bothersome):

• Constipation
• Headache
• Heartburn

This is not an exhaustive list of all possible side effects.

Storage

Keep out of reach of children. Store at room temperature (15-30°C or 59-86°F). Keep the container tightly closed. Discard any unused medication after the expiration date.