Naproxen
Brand names Arthrosin, Arthroxen, Laraflex, Naprosyn, Nycopren, Prosaid, Synflex, Timpron, Valrox
Used in the following combined preparation Napratec
General information
Naproxen, one of the non-steroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), is used to reduce pain, stiffness, and inflammation.
The drug relieves the symptoms of adult and juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and osteoarthritis, although it does not cure the underlying disease.
Naproxen is also used to treat acute attacks of gout, and may sometimes be prescribed for the relief of migraine and of pain following orthopaedic surgery, dental treatment, strains, and sprains. It is also effective for treating painful menstrual cramps.
Gastrointestinal side effects are fairly common, and there is an increased risk of bleeding. However, it is safer than aspirin, and in long-term use it needs to be taken only twice daily.
Quick reference
Drug group Non-steroidal antiinflammatory drug and drug for gout.
Overdose danger rating Medium
Dependence rating Low
Prescription needed Yes
Available as generic Yes
Information for users
Your drug prescription is tailored for you. Do not alter dosage without checking with your doctor.
How taken
Tablets, liquid, granules, suppositories.
Frequency and timing of doses
Every 6-8 hours as required (general pain relief); 1-2 x daily (muscular pain and arthritis); every 8 hours (gout). All doses should be taken with food.
Adult dosage range
Mild to moderate pain, menstrual cramps 500mg (starting dose), then 250mg every 6-8 hours as required. Muscular pain and arthritis 500-1,250mg daily. Gout 750mg (starting dose), then 250mg every 8 hours until attack has subsided.
Onset of effect
Pain relief begins within 1 hour. Full antiinflammatory effect may take 2 weeks.
Duration of action
Up to 12 hours.
Diet advice
None.
Storage
Keep in a closed container in a cool, dry place out of the reach of children. Protect from light.
Missed dose
Take as soon as you remember. If your next dose is due within 4 hours, take a single dose now and skip the next.
Stopping the drug
When taken for short-term pain relief, naproxen can be safely stopped as soon as you no longer need it. If prescribed for long- term treatment, however, you should seek medical advice before stopping the drug.
Exceeding the dose
An occasional unintentional extra dose is unlikely to be a cause for concern. But if you notice any unusual symptoms, or if a large overdose has been taken, notify your doctor.
Possible adverse effects
Most adverse effects are not serious and may diminish with time. Black or bloodstained bowel movements should be reported to your doctor without delay.
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Symptom/effect
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Frequency
Common
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Rare
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Discus: doctor
Only if severe
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with
In all cases
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Stop taking drug now
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Call
doctor
now
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Gastrointestinal disorders
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Headache
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•
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■
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Inability to concentrate
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•
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■
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Ringing in the ears
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•
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■
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Swollen feet/ankles
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•
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■
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Rash/itchinq
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■
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▲
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Wheezing/breathlessness
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•
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■
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▲
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1
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Black/bloodstained faeces
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•
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1
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Interactions
General note
Naproxen interacts with a wide range of drugs to increase the risk of bleeding and/or peptic ulcers. It may also alter the blood levels of lithium.
Antihypertensive drugs and diuretics
The beneficial effects of these drugs may be reduced by naproxen.
special precautions
Be sure to tell your doctor if:
You have long-term liver or kidney problems.
▼ You have heart problems.
You have a bleeding disorder.
▼ You have high blood pressure.
▼ You have had a peptic ulcer, oesophagitis, or acid indigestion.
▼ You are allergic to aspirin.
▼ You suffer from asthma.
▼ You are taking other medications.
Pregnancy
▼ Not usually prescribed. When taken in the last three months of pregnancy, may increase the risk of adverse effects on the baby’s heart and may prolong labour. Discuss with your doctor.
Breast-feeding
▼ The drug passes into the breast milk, but at normal doses adverse effects on the baby are unlikely. Discuss with your doctor.
Infants and children
▼ Reduced dose necessary.
Over 60
Increased likelihood of adverse effects. Reduced dose may therefore be necessary.
Driving and hazardous work
Avoid such activities until you have learned how naproxen affects you because the drug may reduce your ability to concentrate.
Alcohol
▼ Keep consumption low. Alcohol may increase the risk of stomach irritation with naproxen.
Surgery and general anesthetics
▼ Naproxen may prolong bleeding. Discuss with your doctor or dentist before surgery.
Prolonged use
There is an increased risk of bleeding from peptic ulcers and in the bowel if naproxen is used long term.
