WARNING

Naproxen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) commonly used to relieve pain, inflammation, and fever. However, like all medications, it carries certain risks. Here are some of the key risks associated with taking Naproxen:

• Gastrointestinal Issues: Naproxen can cause stomach irritation, ulcers, bleeding, or perforation of the stomach or intestines, especially with long-term or high-dose use.
• Cardiovascular Risks: NSAIDs, including Naproxen, may increase the risk of heart attack or stroke, particularly in individuals with existing heart conditions or those who use them long-term.
• Kidney Damage: Prolonged use of Naproxen can lead to kidney damage or impairment, especially in individuals with pre-existing kidney conditions.
• Allergic Reactions: Some people may experience allergic reactions to Naproxen, including skin rashes, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
• Blood Clotting: Naproxen can interfere with normal blood clotting, which may increase the risk of bleeding, particularly in individuals taking blood thinners or those with bleeding disorders.
• Liver Damage: In rare cases, Naproxen may cause liver damage or liver failure, especially with long-term use or in individuals with existing liver conditions.
• Other Side Effects: Common side effects of Naproxen include dizziness, headache, drowsiness, ringing in the ears, and gastrointestinal discomfort.

It’s essential to use Naproxen as directed by a healthcare professional, at the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration necessary to manage symptoms. Individuals with certain medical conditions or those taking other medications should consult their healthcare provider before using Naproxen to minimize the risk of adverse effects.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Naproxen is prescribed for its anti-inflammatory, analgesic (pain-relieving), and antipyretic (fever-reducing) properties. It is commonly used to treat various conditions, including:

• Pain Relief: Naproxen is often prescribed to alleviate pain associated with conditions such as arthritis (including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis), gout, menstrual cramps, headaches, dental pain, muscle aches, and back pain.
• Inflammation Reduction: It is effective in reducing inflammation associated with arthritis, tendonitis, bursitis, and other inflammatory conditions.
• Fever Reduction: Naproxen can help reduce fever caused by various illnesses or infections.

How should this medicine be used?

Regarding precautions for using Naproxen:

• Follow Dosage Instructions: Take naproxen exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not exceed the recommended dose or duration of treatment.
• Avoid Alcohol: Limit or avoid alcohol consumption while taking naproxen, as it can increase the risk of stomach bleeding.
• Take with Food or Milk: To minimize the risk of gastrointestinal side effects, such as stomach upset or ulcers, take naproxen with food, milk, or an antacid.
• Inform Your Doctor: Before starting naproxen, inform your healthcare provider about any medical conditions you have, especially if you have a history of stomach ulcers, heart disease, high blood pressure, kidney or liver disease, or asthma.
• Monitor for Side Effects: Pay attention to any side effects while taking naproxen, such as stomach pain, heartburn, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, headache, or rash, and notify your doctor if they occur.
• Avoid Use During Pregnancy: Naproxen should generally be avoided during the third trimester of pregnancy, as it may harm the unborn baby or cause complications during delivery.
• Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking, including prescription, over-the-counter, vitamins, and herbal supplements, as naproxen can interact with other drugs, including blood thinners, diuretics, and certain antidepressants.
• Avoid Long-Term Use: Prolonged use of naproxen can increase the risk of cardiovascular events, such as heart attack or stroke, and gastrointestinal complications. It should be used at the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration necessary to control symptoms.
• Allergic Reactions: If you experience symptoms of an allergic reaction to naproxen, such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or rash, seek medical attention immediately.

Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and recommendations regarding the use of naproxen, especially if you have any underlying medical conditions or concerns.

Other uses for this medicine

Apart from its primary use in relieving pain and inflammation associated with arthritis and other conditions, Naproxen is sometimes used for:

• Fever reduction: Naproxen can be used to reduce fever in adults and children over 12 years old.
• Migraine: It may be used for the treatment of acute migraine headaches, but this usage should be done under medical supervision.
• Dysmenorrhea: Naproxen can help relieve menstrual cramps and associated symptoms.

What special precautions should I follow?

Naproxen should be used exactly as directed by your healthcare provider or as instructed on the medication label. Follow these general guidelines for using naproxen:

• Dosage: Take the dose prescribed by your doctor. The typical dosage for adults for pain relief is usually 220 mg to 550 mg every 12 hours. The maximum daily dose should not exceed 1,375 mg. Dosages may vary depending on the condition being treated, so follow your doctor’s instructions carefully.
• Administration: Naproxen is usually taken orally, with a full glass of water. It can be taken with food, milk, or antacids to minimize stomach upset. Swallow the tablets whole; do not crush, chew, or break them unless instructed otherwise by your doctor.
• Timing: Take naproxen at the same times each day to maintain a consistent level of the medication in your body. If you are using it for arthritis, it may take several weeks for full effects to be felt.
• Avoid Alcohol:Limit or avoid alcohol consumption while taking naproxen, as it can increase the risk of stomach bleeding.
• Duration of Use: Use naproxen for the shortest duration necessary to relieve your symptoms. Do not exceed the recommended dose or duration of treatment without consulting your doctor.
• Missed Dose: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
• Storage: Store naproxen at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep it out of the reach of children and pets.
• Special Instructions: If you are using naproxen for conditions such as arthritis, follow any additional instructions provided by your doctor, such as physical therapy or lifestyle changes.
• Consult Your Doctor: If you have any questions or concerns about how to use naproxen, talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist for clarification.

Always use naproxen as directed by your healthcare provider, and do not alter the dosage or frequency of use without consulting them first. Using naproxen correctly can help maximize its benefits while minimizing the risk of side effects or complications.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Regarding dietary instructions for Naproxen, there are no specific dietary restrictions associated with its use. However, taking Naproxen with food, milk, or an antacid may help reduce the risk of stomach upset or ulcers.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget a dose of Naproxen, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you have any concerns or questions about missed doses, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for advice.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Naproxen, like other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can cause various side effects. Some common side effects include:

• Stomach Upset: Naproxen can irritate the lining of the stomach, leading to symptoms such as stomach pain, heartburn, nausea, vomiting, or indigestion.
• Gastrointestinal Ulcers and Bleeding: Long-term use of Naproxen can increase the risk of developing ulcers in the stomach or intestines, which may cause bleeding. This risk is higher in elderly individuals and those with a history of gastrointestinal problems.
• Dizziness: Some people may experience dizziness or lightheadedness while taking Naproxen, especially when standing up quickly from a sitting or lying position.
• Headache: Headaches are a common side effect of Naproxen use, although they may subside as your body adjusts to the medication.
• Rash: Allergic reactions to Naproxen can manifest as a skin rash. If you develop a rash while taking Naproxen, stop taking the medication and consult your doctor.
• Kidney Problems: Naproxen can affect kidney function, particularly in individuals with pre-existing kidney disease or those taking other medications that affect the kidneys.
• Fluid Retention: Naproxen may cause fluid retention, leading to swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet, particularly in individuals with heart failure or high blood pressure.
• High Blood Pressure: NSAIDs like Naproxen can elevate blood pressure, especially in people with hypertension.
• Heart Problems: Prolonged use of Naproxen may increase the risk of heart attack or stroke, particularly in individuals with pre-existing heart disease or risk factors for cardiovascular disease.
• Liver Damage: In rare cases, Naproxen can cause liver damage or liver failure, particularly when taken in high doses or for a prolonged period.
• Gastrointestinal Perforation: Although rare, Naproxen can cause serious gastrointestinal complications such as perforation (a hole in the stomach or intestines), which requires immediate medical attention.

If you experience any severe or persistent side effects while taking Naproxen, contact your healthcare provider immediately. They can evaluate your symptoms and determine whether adjustments to your treatment are necessary. Additionally, always read the medication label and discuss any concerns with your doctor or pharmacist before taking Naproxen or any other medication.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal:

Storage:

• Store Naproxen at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
• Keep it out of reach of children and pets.
• Do not store Naproxen in the bathroom or in areas with high humidity, as moisture can degrade the medication.

Disposal:

• Dispose of unused or expired Naproxen properly by following any specific disposal instructions provided on the medication label or by your pharmacist.
• If no disposal instructions are available, you can mix the medication with an undesirable substance (e.g., coffee grounds, cat litter) in a sealed plastic bag before throwing it away.
• Do not flush Naproxen down the toilet unless instructed to do so by your pharmacist or local waste disposal authorities.

In case of emergency/overdose

• If you suspect an overdose of Naproxen or experience symptoms such as severe stomach pain, vomiting blood, black or tarry stools, confusion, drowsiness, shallow breathing, fainting, or seizures, seek immediate medical attention or contact your local poison control center.
• In case of overdose, prompt medical intervention is crucial. Call emergency services (911 in the United States) or your local emergency number immediately.

What other information should I know?

• Before taking Naproxen, inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are currently taking, including prescription, over-the-counter, vitamins, and herbal supplements, to avoid potential drug interactions.
• Naproxen should be used with caution in individuals with certain medical conditions, such as heart disease, high blood pressure, kidney disease, liver disease, asthma, or gastrointestinal disorders.
• Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight while taking Naproxen, as it can increase the risk of sunburn or skin reactions.
• Inform your healthcare provider if you experience any new or worsening symptoms while taking Naproxen, such as stomach pain, heartburn, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, headache, rash, or difficulty breathing.
• Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding the use of Naproxen, including dosage, frequency, and duration of treatment.
• Attend regular check-ups with your healthcare provider to monitor your response to Naproxen and to address any concerns or questions you may have.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s advice and recommendations regarding the use of Naproxen, and never hesitate to seek medical attention if you have any questions, concerns, or experience adverse reactions while taking the medication.