Naproxen Accord Healthcare (Naproxen)

Naproxen belongs to the NSAID class and works by reducing inflammation and pain in several conditions.

• Pain: Provides relief from mild to moderate acute or chronic pain.
• Inflammation: Decreases swelling associated with inflammatory disorders.
• Fever: Lowers elevated body temperature.
• Musculoskeletal disorders: Improves mobility and comfort in conditions such as sprains or strains.
• Arthritis: Alleviates joint pain and stiffness in osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

• Naproxen exerts its effect through non‑selective inhibition of cyclooxygenase‑1 (COX‑1) and cyclooxygenase‑2 (COX‑2) enzymes, which reduces the synthesis of prostaglandins responsible for inflammation, pain signaling, and fever generation. By limiting prostaglandin production, the drug diminishes the inflammatory response and associated symptoms.

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

Common Side Effects

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

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal bleeding or ulceration.
• Cardiovascular events such as myocardial infarction or stroke.
• Severe liver injury or hepatitis.
• Acute kidney injury or worsening renal function.
• Life‑threatening skin reactions (e.g., Stevens‑Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis).

Before using naproxen, consider the following safety measures.

• Assess gastrointestinal risk: avoid in patients with active ulcers or a history of GI bleeding.
• Monitor renal function: use caution in those with existing kidney disease.
• Evaluate cardiovascular risk: limit use in patients with heart disease or uncontrolled hypertension.
• Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration needed.
• Avoid in individuals with known hypersensitivity to naproxen or other NSAIDs.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep in the original container, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

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

Major Interactions (Avoid)

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

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Diuretics: possible reduction in renal perfusion.
• Antihypertensive agents: may diminish blood‑pressure‑lowering effect.
• Corticosteroids: additive risk of gastrointestinal ulceration.
• Beta‑blockers: potential for reduced renal excretion.
• ACE inhibitors: may impair renal function when combined.