Naprosyn (Naproxen)

Naprosyn works by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis, which helps control inflammation and pain in several musculoskeletal and inflammatory disorders.

• Rheumatoid arthritis: reduces joint pain, swelling and stiffness.
• Osteoarthritis: alleviates chronic joint discomfort and improves mobility.
• Ankylosing spondylitis: diminishes spinal inflammation and pain.
• Dysmenorrhea: eases menstrual cramps and associated pelvic pain.
• Gout: relieves acute gouty arthritis attacks and associated swelling.

• Naproxen reversibly inhibits both cyclo‑oxygenase‑1 (COX‑1) and cyclo‑oxygenase‑2 (COX‑2) enzymes, decreasing the conversion of arachidonic acid to prostaglandins. The reduced prostaglandin levels lower inflammation, pain signalling and fever responses throughout the body.

Common side effects are generally mild and related to gastrointestinal or central nervous system irritation.

Common Side Effects

• Nausea: mild stomach upset that may improve with food.
• Dyspepsia: indigestion or heartburn.
• Headache: transient mild to moderate pain.
• Dizziness: occasional light‑headed sensation.
• Diarrhoea: loose stools, usually self‑limiting.
• Rash: mild skin redness or itching.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal bleeding or ulceration: black stools or vomiting blood.
• Cardiovascular events: chest pain, shortness of breath, or sudden weakness.
• Renal impairment: reduced urine output or swelling.
• Severe skin reactions: blistering, peeling or target lesions.
• Hepatic dysfunction: jaundice or dark urine.
• Anaphylaxis: rapid swelling, difficulty breathing, or hives.

Before initiating therapy, clinicians should evaluate individual risk factors and monitor for adverse reactions.

• Assess gastrointestinal risk: avoid in patients with a history of ulcer or bleeding.
• Monitor renal function: use caution in those with kidney disease or dehydration.
• Evaluate cardiovascular status: consider alternatives in high‑risk patients.
• Avoid in known hypersensitivity: discontinue if allergic reactions occur.
• Use the lowest effective dose: limit duration to the shortest period needed.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep below 25 °C, in the original container, protected from moisture and direct sunlight.

Naproxen may alter the effects of several commonly prescribed medicines; interaction severity varies.

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 risk.
• ACE inhibitors or ARBs: potential reduction in antihypertensive effect and renal function.
• Lithium: increased lithium serum concentrations.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Diuretics: possible reduction in renal clearance.
• Methotrexate: decreased elimination, raising toxicity.
• Corticosteroids: enhanced ulcer risk.
• Antihypertensives: may blunt blood‑pressure control.
• Oral hypoglycemics: potential alteration of glucose control.