Naprosyne (Naproxen)

Naprosyne is an NSAID that reduces pain and inflammation across several musculoskeletal and inflammatory conditions.

• Osteoarthritis: alleviates joint pain and improves mobility.
• Rheumatoid arthritis: decreases joint swelling and stiffness.
• Acute pain: provides rapid relief of mild to moderate pain such as dental or postoperative discomfort.
• Fever: lowers elevated body temperature associated with inflammatory processes.
• Menstrual pain: reduces dysmenorrhea symptoms.

• Naproxen exerts its therapeutic effect by non‑selectively inhibiting cyclooxygenase‑1 (COX‑1) and cyclooxygenase‑2 (COX‑2) enzymes, which are key in the conversion of arachidonic acid to prostaglandins. By decreasing prostaglandin synthesis, it reduces peripheral sensitisation, inflammation, and the hypothalamic set‑point for temperature, thereby providing analgesic, anti‑inflammatory and antipyretic actions. The inhibition is dose‑dependent and reversible, leading to a sustained reduction of inflammatory mediators during the dosing interval.

Naproxen may cause a range of adverse reactions, varying from mild to severe, that are reported in clinical use.

Common Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal discomfort: nausea, dyspepsia, or abdominal pain.
• Headache: mild to moderate intensity.
• Dizziness or vertigo.
• Skin rash or itching.
• Elevated liver enzymes (asymptomatic).

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal ulceration or bleeding.
• Cardiovascular events such as myocardial infarction or stroke.
• Severe renal impairment or acute kidney injury.
• Stevens‑Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis.
• Hepatotoxicity with jaundice.

When prescribing or dispensing Naprosyne, several precautionary measures should be observed to minimise risk.

• Assess gastrointestinal risk: evaluate history of ulcers, bleeding, or chronic NSAID use.
• Evaluate cardiovascular risk: consider existing heart disease or stroke history.
• Monitor renal function: check creatinine and urine output in patients with kidney disease.
• Use lowest effective dose: limit duration to the shortest period necessary for symptom control.
• Avoid in known hypersensitivity: discontinue if allergic reactions occur.
• Take with food or antacid: to reduce gastric irritation.
• Store at room temperature: keep in the original container, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

Naproxen can interact with other medicines, altering its efficacy or safety profile.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin): increased risk of serious bleeding.
• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs): heightened bleeding tendency.
• Lithium: elevated lithium levels leading to toxicity.
• Methotrexate: reduced clearance and potential toxicity.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Other NSAIDs or aspirin: additive gastrointestinal toxicity.
• Diuretics (e.g., furosemide): possible reduction in renal perfusion.
• Corticosteroids: increased risk of ulceration and bleeding.
• ACE inhibitors or ARBs: may impair renal function when combined.