Naprosyn
Naproxen
Drug Class and Mechanism of Action of Naprosyn
Naprosyn is NSAIDs (non steroidal anti inflammatory drugs). Other drugs of this group are ibuprofen, indomethacin etc. NSAIDs acts by reducing the levels of prostaglandins, chemicals that are responsible for pain, fever and inflammation. They block enzyme that produce prostaglandins called cyclooxygenase (COX), which causes reduction of prostaglandin level. As a result, inflammation, pain and fever are reduced. Naproxen was approved by the USFDA in December, 1991.
Therapeutic Uses of Naprosyn
Naprosyn is used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, juvenile arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, tendonitis and bursitis, and acute gout etc. It is also used in the treatment of primary dysmenorrhea as well as in the treatment of mild to moderate pain. Naprosyn Suspension is also used in the treatment of juvenile rheumatoid arthritis to obtain the maximum dosage flexibility based on the patient's weight.
Direction of use of Naprosyn
Naprosyn is taken by mouth as it is available as tablets, extended release tablet, and as liquid. It may cause stomach upset like any other NSAID and should be taken on along with food to reduce stomach upset and irritation. Naprosyn is usually taken twice a day for arthritis, thrice a day (every 8 hours) for gout, and once a day (as extended release tablets) or every 6 to 8 hours (regular tablets) as required for pain.
If You Miss a Dose of Naprosyn
If you are taking Naprosyn as regular medicine you should take it as soon as you remember if you miss a dose of Naprosyn. If it is almost time for the next dose you should skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule. If you are taking Naprosyn as and when required for pain relief, there is no chance of missing a dose, because you will take Naprosyn if you have pain. Even if you miss a dose of Naprosyn, than take it if needed.
How to Store Naprosyn
Naprosyn should be stored at room temperature. Avoid exposure to more than 40 degree Centigrade or 104 degree Fahrenheit. Store it in a heat and light resistant container. Keep Naprosyn out of reach of children and pets. Do not store it in your bathroom.
More Information About Naprosyn
Naprosyn should be taken by the patient for whom it is prescribed. Never share Naprosyn with anyone for whom it is not prescribed. If you are not getting any relief, or if your symptoms are getting worse even after taking Naprosyn, consult your doctor. If you have any question about Naprosyn you should consult your doctor or other health care provider.
Precautions to be Taken While Taking Naprosyn
- If you have allergy to Naprosyn or any of the ingredients you should not take Naprosyn. Inform your doctor if you have allergy to aspirin, any other NSAIDs, if you have an ulcer or bleeding in your stomach, if you drink more than three alcoholic beverages a day, if you have liver disease, if you have kidney disease, if you have a coagulation (bleeding) disorder, have fluid retention, have heart disease, have congestive heart failure, or have high blood pressure. If you have any of the medical conditions listed here, you may not be able to take Naprosyn or you may need to adjust the dose of Naprosyn or you may need special monitoring during treatment with Naprosyn.
- USFDA puts Naprosyn as category B drug, which means it is supposed to be not harmful to the fetus if taken during pregnancy. But you should not take Naprosyn without consulting your doctor, especially during late pregnancy (third trimester of pregnancy) due to reports of heart problems with similar drugs.
- Naprosyn can pass in the breast milk and may harm your baby. It should not be taken during breast feeding without consulting your doctor.
Possible Adverse Effects of Naprosyn
- Consult your doctor immediately if you get any side effects like blood in vomit or bloody, black, or tarry stools. These could be due to damage and ulcer in the stomach and intestine and can be dangerous.
- If you get any of the serious side effects listed here you should stop taking Naprosyn and consult your doctor immediately. The serious side effects are allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; hives, rash, itching etc.); ulcers or open sores in the mouth; muscle cramps, abdominal cramps; numbness, tingling; rapid weight gain due to fluid retention; seizures; decreased hearing or ringing in the ears (tinnitus); yellowing of your skin or eyes (jaundice); heartburn, or indigestion etc.
- There may also be less serious and common side effects and if you get any less serious side effects keep taking Naprosyn and consult your doctor. Less serious and common side effects are dizziness, headache, nausea, diarrhea, constipation, dry mouth, fatigue, generalized weakness, depression, irregular menstrual periods etc.
- There may also be side effects which are not listed here. If you experience any side effect that is not usual, you should consult your doctor immediately.