Brand name: Naproxen
Pronounced: NA-proh-sinn
Generic name: Naproxen
Other brand name: EC-Naproxen Naproxen (Aleve, Anaprox, Anaprox DS,
Naproxen)
Why is Naproxen prescribed?
Naproxen, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, is used to relieve
the inflammation, swelling, stiffness, and joint pain associated with
rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis (the most common form of arthritis),
juvenile arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis (spinal arthritis), tendinitis,
bursitis, and acute gout; it is also used to relieve menstrual cramps
and other types of mild to moderate pain.
Most important fact about Naproxen
You should have frequent checkups with your doctor if you take Naproxen
regularly. Ulcers or internal bleeding can occur without warning.
How should you take Naproxen without prescriptions?
Naproxen may be taken with food or an antacid, and with a full glass
of water to avoid stomach upset. Avoid taking it on an empty stomach.
If you are using Naproxen for arthritis, it should be taken regularly;
take it exactly as prescribed.
Do not break, crush, or chew an EC-Naproxen tablet.
If you miss a dose...
And you take the drug on a regular schedule, take the dose as soon
as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the
one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take 2
doses at once.
Storage instructions...
Store at room temperature in a well-closed container. Protect from
light and extreme heat.
Naproxen side effects - Naproxen (Aleve, Anaprox,
Anaprox DS, Naproxen)
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity,
inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine
if it is safe for you to continue taking Naproxen.
* Side effects may include:
Abdominal pain, bruising, constipation, difficult or labored breathing, dizziness,
drowsiness, headache, heartburn, itching, nausea, ringing in ears, skin eruptions,
swelling due to fluid retention
Why should Naproxen not be prescribed?
If you are sensitive to or have ever had an allergic reaction to Naproxen,
EC-Naproxen, Anaprox, Anaprox DS, or Aleve, you should not take Naproxen.
Also, if aspirin or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs have
ever given you asthma or nasal inflammation or tumors, you should not
take Naproxen. Make sure your doctor is aware of any drug reactions
you have experienced.
Special warnings about Naproxen
Remember that peptic ulcers and bleeding can occur without warning.
Call your doctor immediately if you suspect a problem.
Use Naproxen with caution if you have kidney or liver disease; it
can cause liver or kidney problems in some people.
Naproxen may prolong bleeding time. If you are taking blood-thinning
medication, your doctor will prescribe Naproxen with caution.
By reducing fever and inflammation, Naproxen may hide an underlying
condition.
This medication may cause vision problems. If you experience any changes
in your vision, inform your doctor.
This drug can increase water retention. It will be prescribed with
caution if you have heart disease or high blood pressure. Naproxen
suspension contains a significant amount of sodium. If you are on a
low-sodium diet, discuss this with your doctor.
Naproxen may cause you to become drowsy or less alert; therefore,
avoid driving, operating dangerous machinery, or participating in any
hazardous activity that requires full mental alertness until you are
sure of the drug's effect on you.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking Naproxen
(Aleve, Anaprox, Anaprox DS, Naproxen)
If Naproxen is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either
could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important
to check with your doctor before combining Naproxen with the following:
ACE inhibitors such as the blood-pressure drug Zestril
Aspirin
Beta blockers such as the blood-pressure drug Tenormin
Blood-thinning drugs such as Coumadin
Furosemide (Lasix)
Lithium (Eskalith, Lithobid)
Methotrexate
Naproxen sodium (Aleve, Anaprox)
Oral diabetes drugs such as Diabinese and Micronase
Phenytoin (Dilantin)
Probenecid (Benemid)
Sulfa drugs such as the antibiotics Bactrim and Septra
EC-Naproxen should not be used with antacids, H2 blockers such as
Tagamet, or sucralfate (Carafate).
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
The effects of Naproxen during pregnancy have not been adequately
studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your
doctor immediately. Naproxen appears in breast milk and could affect
a nursing infant. If Naproxen is essential to your health, your doctor
may advise you to discontinue breastfeeding until your treatment with
Naproxen is finished.
Recommended dosage for Naproxen
Naproxen is available in tablet and liquid form. When taking the liquid,
use a teaspoon or the measuring cup, marked in one-half teaspoon and
2.5 milliliter increments, that comes with Naproxen suspension.
ADULTS
Overdosage
Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you
suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.
* Symptoms of Naproxen overdose may include:
Drowsiness, heartburn, indigestion, nausea, vomiting
