Naproxen 500 (Naproxen)

• Naproxen is an NSAID that reduces inflammation and pain by inhibiting cyclooxygenase enzymes.
• Osteoarthritis: alleviates joint pain and decreases swelling in chronic degenerative disease.
• Rheumatoid arthritis: diminishes inflammatory activity and improves functional mobility in autoimmune joint inflammation.
• Dysmenorrhea: lessens menstrual cramps and associated pelvic discomfort.
• Gout flares: reduces acute joint pain and inflammation during urate crystal attacks.
• Mild to moderate pain: provides effective relief for headaches, dental pain, and musculoskeletal aches.
• Postoperative pain: helps control pain after minor surgical procedures.

• Naproxen exerts its effect through non‑selective inhibition of 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 sensitization of nociceptors, diminishes inflammatory exudate formation, and lowers fever. The balanced COX inhibition provides analgesic, anti‑inflammatory, and antipyretic actions while preserving gastric mucosal protection to a lesser extent than selective COX‑2 inhibitors.

Naproxen may cause a range of adverse reactions, varying from mild to severe.

Common Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal upset: nausea, dyspepsia, or abdominal discomfort.
• Headache: mild to moderate intensity.
• Dizziness or vertigo: transient sensation of light‑headedness.
• Rash: mild skin irritation or itching.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal bleeding or ulcer: potentially life‑threatening hemorrhage.
• Renal impairment: reduced kidney function or acute kidney injury.
• Cardiovascular events: increased risk of heart attack or stroke.
• Severe skin reactions: Stevens‑Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis.

When prescribing naproxen, clinicians should evaluate patient risk factors and follow safety guidelines.

• Assess gastrointestinal risk: review history of ulcers, bleeding disorders, or chronic NSAID use.
• Monitor cardiovascular health: consider underlying heart disease or stroke risk before initiating therapy.
• Evaluate renal function: check baseline creatinine and avoid use in severe kidney impairment.
• Use the lowest effective dose: prescribe the minimal dose for the shortest duration needed.
• Avoid use in late pregnancy: NSAIDs are contraindicated in the third trimester.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep tablets below 25 °C in the original container, protected from moisture.

Naproxen can interact with several medicines, altering efficacy or safety.

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.
• Lithium: naproxen may raise lithium serum concentrations.
• Methotrexate: reduced renal clearance leading to toxicity.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• ACE inhibitors or ARBs: possible reduction in antihypertensive effect and renal function.
• Diuretics (especially thiazides): may enhance nephrotoxic risk.
• Corticosteroids: synergistic increase in ulcer risk.