Naprossene Aurobindo (Naproxen Sodium)

Naproxen sodium is an NSAID that acts on inflammatory and pain pathways in several common conditions.

• Pain: provides symptomatic relief of mild to moderate acute pain.
• Inflammation: reduces swelling and tissue inflammation.
• Arthritis: alleviates joint pain and stiffness associated with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
• Dysmenorrhea: eases menstrual cramps and associated discomfort.
• Fever: lowers elevated body temperature in febrile states.

• Naproxen sodium non‑selectively inhibits cyclooxygenase‑1 (COX‑1) and cyclooxygenase‑2 (COX‑2) enzymes, decreasing the conversion of arachidonic acid to prostaglandins. The reduced prostaglandin synthesis diminishes peripheral sensitization of nociceptors, limits inflammatory exudate formation, and lowers the hypothalamic set‑point for temperature regulation, thereby producing analgesic, anti‑inflammatory, and antipyretic effects.

Adverse reactions to naproxen sodium can vary in frequency and severity.

Common Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal upset: nausea, dyspepsia, or abdominal discomfort.
• Headache: mild to moderate intensity.
• Dizziness or vertigo.
• Mild skin rash or pruritus.
• Elevated blood pressure.
• Fluid retention or peripheral edema.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal bleeding, ulceration, or perforation.
• Severe cardiovascular events such as myocardial infarction or stroke.
• Stevens‑Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis.
• Hepatotoxicity: elevated liver enzymes or hepatitis.
• Acute renal failure or worsening of chronic kidney disease.
• Anaphylaxis or severe hypersensitivity reactions.

Before initiating therapy, clinicians should consider several safety aspects.

• Assess gastrointestinal risk: evaluate history of ulcers, bleeding, or chronic NSAID use.
• Evaluate cardiovascular profile: avoid in patients with recent myocardial infarction or uncontrolled hypertension.
• Monitor renal function: check baseline creatinine in patients with kidney disease.
• Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration needed.
• Avoid in individuals with known hypersensitivity to naproxen or other NSAIDs.
• Store at room temperature: keep in the original container, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

Naproxen sodium may alter the effects of several concomitant medicines.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin): increased risk of serious bleeding.
• Other NSAIDs or aspirin: additive gastrointestinal toxicity.
• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs): heightened bleeding tendency.
• ACE inhibitors or ARBs: potential reduction in antihypertensive effect and renal impairment.
• Lithium: naproxen can raise lithium serum concentrations.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Diuretics: may reduce renal clearance of naproxen.
• Corticosteroids: increased risk of gastrointestinal ulceration.
• Methotrexate: naproxen can decrease renal elimination, raising toxicity.
• Antihypertensives (e.g., beta‑blockers): possible attenuation of blood‑pressure control.
• Alcohol: additive gastric irritation and bleeding risk.