Naproxen

Molecule Description

Naproxen is a painkiller with anti-inflammatory and antipyretic (fever-reducing

) properties.

Uses

Contraindications

Side effects

Precautions and Warnings

Uses of Naproxen

It is used to give relief from mild to moderate pain in conditions of joints, muscles and tendons; like rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, ankylosing spondylitis (a painful condition), inflammation...

Contraindications of Naproxen

When should one not use Naproxen

Allergic reactions in response to Ibuprofen, Aspirin or another Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory/ analgesic medicine
Active or history of stomach/ intestinal ulcers or active bleeding from these ulcers
History of asthma
Urticaria
Kidney disease

Side effects of Naproxen

Common side effects of this drug are:

Belching, heartburn
Bruising
Difficult breathing
Feeling of indigestion
Headache
Itching to the skin or sometimes purplish patches in the skin
Pain in the chest below the breastbone
Skin eruptions
Stomach pain
Swelling and tightness in the chest
Bleeding from stomach, coffee color vomit, black stools or bloody
Diarrhea
Ulcer in stomach

Precautions and Warnings of Naproxen

Pregnancy

Can I take Naproxen during pregnancy?

This medicine is not recommended in women attempting to conceive as it may impair female fertility. This medicine is not to be used during the last three months of pregnancy. In the first six months of pregnancy, it is used only if prescribed by your doctor.

Breast Feeding

Can I take Naproxen while breastfeeding?

The available data indicate that levels of Naproxen in breastmilk are low and adverse effects in breastfed infants are apparently uncommon. Please consult with your doctor. Your doctor may prescribe you a safer alternative.

Driving

Can I drive if I have consumed Naproxen?

This medicine may lead to dizziness. Do not drive unless you feel well.

Alcohol

Can I consume alcohol with Naproxen?

Do not drink alcohol while taking Naproxen. Alcohol may lead to increase the risk of stomach bleeding caused by this medicine.

Other General Warnings

Talk to your doctor if

If you have liver disease or asthma, dose adjustment of this medicine may be needed. Please consult with your doctor
Naproxen can increase the risk of a heart attack. It occurs when there is long term or taking high doses or if you have heart disease. People without heart disease or risk factors may lead to cause a ...
Read more
This medicine may lead to cause an effect of the stomach or intestinal bleeding which can be fatal. These conditions can occur without warning while you are using Naproxen, especially in the elderly
You should not use Naproxen if you are allergic to it. Discuss with your doctor if you have any such condition

Mode of Action of Naproxen

How Does It Work?

Prostaglandins are chemicals released in the body which cause swelling and pain. Naproxen is an inhibitor of prostaglandin synthesis. It works by reducing inflammation and also by relieving pain, swel...

Interactions of Naproxen

Interactions with other medicines

Most significant interactions with Zolpidem, Aspirin, Diphenhydramine, Duloxetine, Omega-3 Polyunsaturated fatty acids, Cyclobenzaprine, Atorvastatin and Pregabalin.

Dosage of Naproxen

Overdose

Inform your doctor immediately in case of an overdose. Symptoms of overdose include headache, heartburn, vomiting, nausea, epigastric pain, seizures, drowsiness, prolongation of clotting time leading ...

Missed a Dose

Take the missed dose as early as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose & do not take extra medicine for the missed dose.

Content Details

WRITTEN BY

Dr. Arpit Verma

MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)

REVIEWED BY

Dr. Ritu Budania

MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What should I discuss with my healthcare expert before taking Naproxen?

A: Naproxen can increase the risk of heart attack. It occurs when it is taken for a for long term, if you are taking high doses or if you have heart disease. People without heart disease or risk factors may lead to cause a stroke or heart attack while taking this medicine. This medicine is not to be used just before or after heart bypass surgery (coronary artery bypass graft). This medicine may lead to cause an effect of the stomach or intestinal bleeding which can be fatal. These conditions can occur without warning while you are using Naproxen, especially in the elderly. You should not continue the use this if you are allergic to Naproxen. Discuss with your doctor if you have any such condition. Also, tell your doctor about all your ongoing medications.

Q: When and how to consume the medicine?

Take orally with a full glass of water, take with food or milk if you occur with stomach upset
Oral Suspension: Shake gently before use. Use with the dosing device provided
Controlled and delayed-release tablets: Do not break, crush or chew the tablet

References

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Last Updated on: 05 Oct 2020 | 10:47 PM (IST)

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