Naproxen is a non steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, which is used in the management of rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, dysmenorrhoea, acute musculoskeletal disorders and acute gout.
| Drug Class | NSAIDs |
| Uses | rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, dysmenorrhoea, acute musculoskeletal disorders and acute gout. |
| Available Strengths | 250, 500,1000 mg |
| Pregnancy Category | C |
Key Facts of Naproxen
It is recommended to take naproxen drug after a meal to avoid severe side effects of naproxen.
Do not use naproxen for longer duration to avoid addiction of naproxen.
Avoid alcohol while using naproxen as it will make you more dizzy and sleepy.
Confusion, headache, ringing in the ears, changes in vision are more common side effects of naproxen.
Your doctor will also give you antacid to avoid stomach ulcers.
Dosage of Naproxen
Dosage of naproxen can vary according to your conditions. Your doctor will decide your dose according to your conditions and treatment response.
The usual dose of naproxen is 500 mg tablet twice a day, with a maximum dose of 1000 mg per day.
Side effects of Naproxen
Like all other medicines naproxen also causes some side effects. Although they are very rare and may happen’s in 10% of people taking it.
Common side effects of naproxen are as follows:
- confusion
- headaches
- ringing in the ears
- changes in vision
- tiredness and feeling sleepy
- dizziness
- rashes
Contact your doctor or nearby if any of these side effects bother in your life.
Serious side effects can also happen with naproxen and they are as follows:
- Gastrointestinal obstruction,
- Inflammation,
- Bleeding,
- Ulceration,
- Stroke,
- Anaphylactic reactions.
Seek emergency help if any of these serious side effects happens to you.
Drug Interaction of Naproxen
Drug interaction can change the way your drug works and may produce some undesired effects.
Following is the list of drugs which may interact with naproxen and should be avoided while taking naproxen.
- Ibuprofen
- Naproxen
- Diclofenac
- Celecoxib
- Mefenamic acid
- Etoricoxib
- Iindomethacin
- Paracetamol
- Ramipril
- Quinapril
- Enalapril
- Lisinopril
Before consuming naproxen, talk to your doctor about your ongoing medicines to know any possible drug interaction.
Mechanism of Action of Naproxen
Naproxen reversibly inhibits the COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes which leads to decreased level of prostaglandins which are responsible for pain and inflammation sensation.
| Duration Of Action | <12 hours. |
| Onset Of Action | 30-60 minutes. |
| Absorption | Readily absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. |
| Metabolism | Extensively metabolized in the liver by CYP1A2 and CYP2C9 isoenzymes |
| Excretion | Mainly via urine (approx 95%) as unchanged drug and metabolites |
How to Store Naproxen
Naproxen should be stored in the airtight container and away from the light and moisture. Also keep it away from the pets & children’s.
Ask your pharmacists about recycle program and about disposal of expired medicine.
FAQs of Naproxen
What is the naproxen drug?
Naproxen is a non steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, which is used in the management of rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, dysmenorrhoea, acute musculoskeletal disorders and acute gout.
How does naproxen works?
Naproxen reversibly inhibits the COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes which leads to decreased level of prostaglandins which are responsible for pain and inflammation sensation.
Can i take naproxen tablet for longer duration?
Do not take naproxen tablet for more than 10 days, unless it is recommended by the doctor.
What are common side effects of naproxen tablet?
Confusion, headaches, ringing in the ears, changes in vision, tiredness and feeling sleepy, dizziness, rashes are common side effects of naproxen tablet.
Is naproxen addictive in nature?
No, naproxen is not considered as an active ingredient, but it should be consumed with care.
Does naproxen cause stomach ulcers?
Yes, like all other NSAIDs naproxen also causes stomach ulcers due to excessive secretion of acid in stomach.
Can i drink alcohol while taking naproxen?
No,it is not recommended to drink alcohol while taking naproxen medication.
Is it safe to use naproxen in pregnancy and breastfeeding?
Naproxen is pregnancy category c drug and cause potentially fatal effects on unborn child.
Can i drive a vehicle after taking naproxen?
If naproxen make you dizzy or sleepy then you should avoid driving vehicle or operating any heavy machinery which requires concentration.
Will naproxen affect my fertility?
No, there is no such incidence of naproxen affecting fertility in males or females.
