Nalgedol (Naproxen Sodium)

Nalgedol, a non‑steroidal anti‑inflammatory drug, is used for conditions where inflammation and pain are prominent.

• Pain: provides analgesic relief by reducing inflammatory mediators.
• Inflammation: decreases swelling and tissue irritation in musculoskeletal disorders.
• Fever: lowers elevated body temperature through prostaglandin inhibition.
• Arthritis: alleviates joint pain and stiffness associated with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

• Naproxen sodium inhibits cyclooxygenase‑1 (COX‑1) and cyclooxygenase‑2 (COX‑2) enzymes, leading to reduced synthesis of prostaglandins that mediate pain, inflammation, and fever. By limiting prostaglandin production, the drug diminishes peripheral sensitisation of nociceptors and the inflammatory response, resulting in analgesic and anti‑inflammatory effects.

Common Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal discomfort: nausea, dyspepsia, or abdominal pain.
• Headache: mild to moderate intensity.
• Dizziness: occasional light‑headedness.
• Rash: mild skin irritation or itching.
• Elevated blood pressure: transient increases in some patients.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal ulceration or bleeding: may present as black stools or vomiting blood.
• Renal impairment: reduced kidney function or fluid retention.
• Hepatotoxicity: abnormal liver enzymes or jaundice.
• Cardiovascular events: increased risk of heart attack or stroke.
• Severe allergic reactions: swelling of face, lips, or throat, and difficulty breathing.

Before using Nalgedol, consider the following precautions.

• Renal function: assess kidney health, especially in patients with chronic disease.
• Gastrointestinal risk: avoid in individuals with a history of ulcers or bleeding.
• Cardiovascular status: use cautiously in patients with heart disease or hypertension.
• Concomitant NSAIDs: avoid combining with other NSAIDs to reduce toxicity.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep below 25°C, retain in original packaging, protect from moisture.

Nalgedol may interact with several medicines; monitor accordingly.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin): increased bleeding risk.
• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs): heightened gastrointestinal bleeding.
• ACE inhibitors or diuretics: potential reduction in renal function.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Other NSAIDs or aspirin: additive gastrointestinal toxicity.
• Lithium: possible rise in lithium serum levels.
• Methotrexate: reduced clearance leading to toxicity.