Naproxen

Naproxen

Where is Naproxen used?

Naproxen is used to relieve symptoms of arthritis such as joint pain, stiffness, swelling, and inflammation. Arthritis causes swelling and tenderness of one or more of your joints. A severe condition of arthritis can make it difficult for you to do daily tasks. Particularly, it will be if it affects your arms or hands. In some cases, joints might become deformed and twisted. Naproxen is a medicine that belongs to the group of drugs called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). This prescription was first approved in 1976 by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

This drug also relieves symptoms of Ankylosing spondylitis which is a type of arthritis that affects the joints in the spine. Naproxen is recommended as well for the treatment of mild to moderate pain. It includes acute gout and menstrual cramps.

Naproxen can also be prescribed in children for the treatment of:

  • Diseases of the joints for children from 2 years
  • Muscle and bone disorders for babies from 1 month
  • Period pain for children under 15

Adults and teenagers aged 15 and over can buy it from a pharmacy for period pain.

How does Naproxen work?

  • Naproxen reduces the levels of prostaglandins. These are chemicals that are responsible for inflammation, fever, or pain.
  • This drug also blocks the enzyme that makes prostaglandins. Wherein, it results in lower concentrations of prostaglandins. As a result, pain, fever, and inflammation are reduced.

How is Naproxen taken?

The dose of this prescription will be different for different patients. Follow the instructions of your doctor and do not change them unless your doctor tells you to do so.

Naproxen is usually taken 2 to 3 times a day as directed by your doctor. The drug is taken by mouth with a full glass of water. After taking a dose, do not lie down for at least 10 minutes. Take your doses at the same time each day.

What are the possible side effects of Naproxen?

  • Nausea
  • Abdominal pain
  • Constipation
  • Heartburn
  • Headache
  • Drowsiness
  • Dizziness
  • Fatigue

What are the precautions in taking Naproxen?

  • If you are taking Naproxen, avoid drinking alcohol. It might increase your risk of stomach bleeding.
  • Avoid as well from taking the aspirin unless your doctor tells you to.
  • Before using an antacid ask your doctor. Use only what your doctor suggests. Several antacids might make it difficult for your body to absorb Naproxen.
  • This drug may cause uncommon results with certain medical tests. Inform the doctor beforehand who treats you that you are taking Naproxen.
  • You should not take this drug if you are pregnant. Taking NSAIDs during the last 20 weeks of pregnancy may cause serious kidney or heart problems in the unborn baby.
  • Do not give this drug to a child without medical advice because this is not approved for use in children younger than 2 years of age.
  • Naproxen should not be used before or after heart bypass surgery.
  • Be cautious about the possible side effects of this drug such as headache, stomach pain, heartburn, and indigestion.