Naproxen – what it is, what it is for, indications and how to take it!

Naproxen is a non- steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It works by reducing hormones that cause inflammation and pain in the body. Naproxen is used to treat pain or inflammation caused by conditions such as arthritis , ankylosing spondylitis, tendonitis, bursitis, gout, or menstrual cramps.

Delayed-release or extended-release tablets are slow-acting forms of Naproxen that are only used to treat chronic conditions such as arthritis or ankylosing spondylitis. These ways don’t work fast enough to treat acute pain.

Important information about naproxen:

You should not use Naproxen if you have a history of an allergic reaction to aspirin or another NSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug).

Naproxen may increase your risk of fatal heart attack or stroke, especially if you use it long-term or take high doses, or if you have heart disease. Even people without heart disease or risk factors can have a stroke or heart attack while taking this medication.

Do not use this medication before or after cardiac surgery (CABG or CABG surgery). Get emergency medical help if you have chest pain, weakness, shortness of breath, slurred speech, or vision or balance problems.

Naproxen can also cause bleeding in the stomach or intestines, which can be fatal. These conditions can occur without warning while you are using this medication, especially in older adults.

Precautions before taking naproxen:

Naproxen can also cause bleeding in the stomach or intestines, which can be fatal. These conditions can occur without warning while you are using this medication, especially in older adults.

You should not use Naproxen if you are allergic to it, or if you have ever had an asthma attack  or severe allergic reaction after taking aspirin or an NSAID.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if it is safe for you to use this medication if you have:

• Heart disease, high blood pressure , high cholesterol , diabetes  or if you smoke;
• History of heart attack, stroke or blood clot;
• A history of stomach ulcers or bleeding;
• Asma;
• Liver or kidney disease;
• Fluid retention.

Taking Naproxen during the last 3 months of pregnancy can harm an unborn baby. Ask a doctor before using this medication if you are pregnant. It can interfere with ovulation, causing temporary infertility.

Naproxen can pass into breast milk and cause side effects in a nursing baby. You should not breast-feed while using this medicine. Naproxen is not approved for use by children under 2 years of age. Do not give this medicine to a child without medical advice.

How should I take naproxen?

Use Naproxen exactly as directed on the label or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take this medication in larger amounts or for longer than recommended. Use the lowest dose that is effective in treating your condition. Do not crush, chew or break a Naproxen tablet . Swallow it all.

Shake the oral suspension (liquid) well before measuring a dose. Measure the liquid medicine with the dosing syringe provided, or with a special measuring spoon or medicine cup. If you do not have a dose measuring device, ask your pharmacist.

If you change brands, strengths, or forms of this medication, your dosage needs may change. Ask your pharmacist if you have any questions about the type of Naproxen you are using.

If a child is taking this medicine, tell your doctor if your child has weight changes. Doses are based on the children’s weight and any changes may affect your child’s dose.

If you use this medication long-term, you may need frequent medical checkups. This medication may cause unusual results with certain medical tests. Tell any doctor treating you that you are using Naproxen .

Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat and light. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use. Read all patient information, medication guides and instruction sheets provided to you. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

What happens if I miss a dose of naproxen?

As Naproxen is sometimes used only when needed, you may not be on a dosing schedule. If you are on a schedule, use the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up for the missed dose.

What should I avoid while taking naproxen?

Avoid drinking alcohol. It may increase the risk of stomach bleeding. Avoid taking aspirin while taking Naproxen . Ask your doctor before taking any other medication for pain, arthritis , fever, or swelling .

Many over-the-counter medications contain aspirin, salicylates, or other drugs similar to naproxen (such as ibuprofen or ketoprofen). Taking certain products together can cause you to get a lot of this type of medication.

Ask your doctor before using an antacid and only use the type recommended by your doctor. Some antacids can make it harder for your body to absorb Naproxen .

Naproxen side effects:

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction to Naproxen : sneezing, a runny or stuffy nose; wheezing or difficulty breathing; urticaria; swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat.

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of a heart attack or stroke: chest pain spreading to your jaw or shoulder, sudden numbness or weakness on one side of your body, slurred speech, shortness of breath .

Stop using naproxen and call your doctor right away if you have:

• shortness of breath (even with light exertion);
• bloating or rapid weight gain;
• the first sign of any rash, no matter how mild;
• signs of stomach bleeding – bloody or tarry stools, coughing up blood, or vomit that resembles coffee beans ;
• liver problems – nausea, stomach pain , itching, feeling tired, flu-like symptoms, loss of appetite, urinating
• dark, clay-colored stools, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes);
• kidney problems – little or no urination, painful or difficult, swollen feet or ankles, tiredness or shortness of breath ;
• low red blood cells (anemia) – pale skin, feeling dizzy or short of breath , fast heart rate, difficulty concentrating;
• severe skin reaction – fever, sore throat , swelling of the face or tongue, burning eyes, skin pain followed by a red rash
• or purple that spreads (especially on the face or upper body) and causes blistering and peeling.

Common side effects of naproxen can include:

• Indigestion, heartburn , stomach pain , nausea ;
• Headache , dizziness, drowsiness;
• Bruising, itching, rash;
• Swelling;
• Ringing in your ears.

What other drugs will affect naproxen?

Ask your doctor before using Naproxen if you take an antidepressant such as citalopram, escitalopram, fluoxetine (Prozac), fluvoxamine, paroxetine, sertraline (Zoloft), trazodone, or vilazodone.

Taking any of these drugs with an NSAID can cause injury or bleeding. Ask a doctor or pharmacist if it is safe for you to use this medication if you are also using any of the following medications:

• cholestyramine;
• cyclosporine;
• digoxin;
• lithium;
• methotrexate;
• pemetrexed;
• phenytoin or similar seizure medications;
• probenecid;
• warfarin (Coumadin, Jantoven) or similar anticoagulants;
• a diuretic or “water pill”;
• heart or blood pressure medication ;
• insulin or oral diabetes medication.

This list is not complete. Other drugs may interact with Naproxen , including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible interactions are listed in this medication guide.

Other information:

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others and use this medicine only for the indication prescribed. Always consult your physician to ensure that the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.