Naproxen Eg (Naproxen)

Naproxen is an NSAID that reduces prostaglandin‑mediated inflammation and is indicated for several painful and inflammatory conditions.

• Pain: provides analgesic relief for mild to moderate acute pain.
• Arthritis: decreases joint inflammation and stiffness in osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
• Musculoskeletal injuries: alleviates inflammation and pain associated with sprains, strains and back pain.
• Fever: lowers elevated body temperature in febrile states.

• Naproxen exerts its effect by reversibly inhibiting the cyclooxygenase enzymes COX‑1 and COX‑2, which are key catalysts in the conversion of arachidonic acid to prostaglandins. By decreasing prostaglandin synthesis, it reduces inflammation, pain signaling, and fever generation throughout the body. The inhibition is dose‑dependent and temporary, allowing normal prostaglandin production to resume after the drug is cleared, which contributes to its relatively favorable safety profile compared with non‑reversible NSAIDs.

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

Common Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal discomfort: nausea, dyspepsia or abdominal pain.
• Headache: mild to moderate tension‑type headache.
• Dizziness: transient light‑headedness or vertigo.
• Skin rash: mild erythema or pruritus.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal ulceration or bleeding: potentially severe stomach or intestinal lesions.
• Cardiovascular events: increased risk of heart attack or stroke, especially with long‑term use.
• Renal impairment: reduced kidney function or acute renal failure.
• Severe hypersensitivity: anaphylaxis or Stevens‑Johnson syndrome.

When prescribing or dispensing naproxen, several precautions should be observed to minimize risk.

• Assess gastrointestinal risk: evaluate history of ulcers, bleeding or chronic NSAID use.
• Evaluate cardiovascular status: consider existing heart disease or risk factors before long‑term therapy.
• Monitor renal function: check kidney parameters in patients with dehydration or pre‑existing renal disease.
• Use the lowest effective dose: limit duration to the shortest period necessary for symptom control.
• Avoid use in known hypersensitivity: discontinue if allergic reactions occur.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep tablets in the original container, protect from moisture and heat.

Naproxen can interact with other 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.
• Other NSAIDs or COX‑2 inhibitors: additive gastrointestinal toxicity.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• ACE inhibitors or ARBs: may reduce antihypertensive effect and impair renal function.
• Diuretics: potential for decreased diuretic efficacy and kidney injury.
• Lithium: naproxen may increase lithium serum levels, risking toxicity.