Naproxen

Originally only available by prescription under the name Naprosyn, Naproxen is an over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug|non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) medication recommended to reduce mild to moderate pain, and fever, as well as inflammation and stiffness due to a variety of health conditions including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, gout, ankylosing spondylitis, menstrual cramps, tendinitis, bursitis, and the treatment of primary dysmenorrhea. Naproxen is marketed under several brand names including Aleve, Anaprox, and Midol Extended Relief.http://www.drugs.com/naproxen.html

Naproxen should be used for pain and inflammation relief only.http://www.webmd.com/drugs/mono-1289-NAPROXEN+-+ORAL.aspx?drugid=5173&drugname=Naproxen+Oral The Food and Drug Administration recommends that Naproxen be taken directly as prescribed on the label. If you are taking an extended-relief tablet, you should take it by mouth whole, preferably with a glass of water. You should not crush or chew the tablets. Doing so will remove the special coating designed to protect your stomach from absorbing the medicine too quickly. If you are taking a liquid medicine containing Naproxen, be sure to use a clearly marked measuring spoon to ensure you are taking the correct dose. You should store the medicine at room temperature in a dry place.http://www.drugs.com/naproxen.html

If you are pregnant or nursing, you should speak to your doctor before taking Naproxen. Children under 2 years old should not use Naproxen without a doctor’s advice. If you have a history of heart disease, asthma, smoking, kidney disease, liver disease, stroke, blood clots, or stomach ulcers, you will need to take a special test or have your dosage adjusted before using the drug.http://www.drugs.com/naproxen.html

While using Naproxen can provide pain relief, there have been side effects reported from using the drug. Some of these include: http://www.webmd.com/drugs/mono-1289-NAPROXEN+-+ORAL.aspx?drugid=5173&drugname=Naproxen+Oral

1. Upset stomach
2. Nausea
3. Heartburn
4. Diarrhea
5. Constipation
6. Headache
7. Tiredness
8. Drowsiness
9. Dizziness
   
   

The above side effects are relatively mild, but if they persist or worsen, you should stop using the medicine and see your doctor. Naproxen has also been linked to more serious side effects, such as stomach pain, difficult/painful swallowing, swelling of hands or feet, vision changes, weight gain, fever, sore throat. These have been reported very rarely, but you should see your doctor immediately if they occur. http://www.webmd.com/drugs/mono-1289-NAPROXEN+-+ORAL.aspx?drugid=5173&drugname=Naproxen+Oral

In unusual cases, Naproxen can cause liver disease. Symptoms include: yellowing of the eyes or skin, dark urine and persistent vomiting. Users should also watch for allergic reactions, such as: rash, swelling or difficulty breathing. http://www.webmd.com/drugs/mono-1289-NAPROXEN+-+ORAL.aspx?drugid=5173&drugname=Naproxen+Oral

The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please contact your doctor for information on naproxen.

FDA Alert: Based on emerging information, the risk of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events may increase among patients taking naproxen. FDA recommends patients not exceed the recommended dose.FDA: Naproxen Patent Information Sheet (January 23, 2004)