Naproxen

Naproxen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It is a pain relief and fever reducing medicine. Only use this medicine if prescribed by your healthcare provider.

Naproxen is used to relieve moderate to severe pain, stiffness, fever, headaches and inflammations caused by joint disease (arthritis). It is also used to treat muscle pain, shoulder pain and menstrual pain.

Naproxen causes stomach ulcers. It is sometimes available in combination with medicines that protect your stomach from ulcers or injuries. If you have been prescribed naproxen, inform your healthcare provider of your stomach ulcer before you use it.

• Naproxen should not be given to children younger than five years old.
• Naproxen is available in 250mg and 500mg tablets and in liquid form.
• The liquid form should be taken as prescribed by your healthcare provider. The dose depends on your body weight.
• Take the tablets based on your healthcare provider's instructions. Usually, they are taken every 8-12 hours with or after having eaten a meal.
• Swallow the whole tablet. Do not chew or crush the tablets.
• Do not drink alcohol while using this medicine.
• If you have a stomach ulcer, take your antacids when using this medicine.
• If you miss a dose, use it when you remember. Do not take two doses at the same time.
• Seek medical attention immediately if you use more than prescribed.

Side-effects that you may experience when you use this medicine include:

• Stomach pain.
• Watery stools.
• Weakness.
• Dizziness.
• Hard stools.
• Feeling like vomiting.
• Skin rash, if you are allergic to this medicine.

In more severe cases, you may experience:

• Stomach ulcers and bleeding.
• Difficulty breathing.
• Chest pain.
• Heart attack.

Report any other side-effects you may experience to your healthcare provider.

• Naproxen should not be used for children under five years old, unless your healthcare provider decides that it is the best option.
• This medicine increases your risk of heart attack or stroke, with or without heart disease.
• It worsens stomach ulcers. Inform your healthcare provider if you have active stomach ulcers before using this medicine.
• Naproxen worsens asthma. If you are asthmatic, inform your healthcare provider before using this medicine.
• It may cause some kidney or liver problems when you use it for long periods.
• You may experience dizziness while using this medicine. Do not drive or operate any machinery when you use it.
• If you are to undergo surgery, do not use this medicine three days before the surgery. You may bleed a lot.
• Inform your healthcare provider of the other medicines you are taking, including herbal pills. It may cause you to bleed more if you use drugs like warfarin.
• Avoid taking this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. If you must use it, inform your healthcare provider about your condition.
• If your healthcare provider prescribes naproxen for long-term treatment, you may regularly need to take blood tests. Your healthcare provider will also monitor you for signs of stomach bleeding.