Naproxen Infectopharm (Naproxen)

Naproxen is an NSAID that reduces inflammation and pain through cyclooxygenase inhibition.

• Musculoskeletal pain: provides relief from aches associated with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and soft‑tissue injuries.
• Acute pain: alleviates short‑term pain such as dental or postoperative discomfort.
• Fever: lowers elevated body temperature caused by inflammatory conditions.
• Inflammatory disorders: helps control swelling and tenderness in conditions like bursitis and tendinitis.

• Naproxen exerts its therapeutic effect by non‑selectively inhibiting the cyclooxygenase enzymes COX‑1 and COX‑2. This inhibition reduces the conversion of arachidonic acid to prostaglandins, thereby decreasing the mediators responsible for pain, inflammation and fever at the site of tissue injury.

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

Common Side Effects

• Dyspepsia: upset stomach or indigestion.
• Headache: mild to moderate head pain.
• Dizziness: sensation of light‑headedness.
• Rash: mild skin irritation or redness.
• Nausea: feeling of queasiness.
• Diarrhoea: loose stools.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal bleeding or ulceration.
• Severe skin reactions such as Stevens‑Johnson syndrome.
• Renal impairment or reduced kidney function.
• Cardiovascular events including heart attack or stroke.
• Hepatic dysfunction or elevated liver enzymes.
• Anaphylaxis: severe allergic reaction.

Before using Naproxen, consider the following safety measures.

• Assess gastrointestinal risk: evaluate history of ulcers or bleeding.
• Monitor renal function: check kidney health especially in the elderly.
• Use lowest effective dose: limit exposure to reduce adverse events.
• Avoid in known hypersensitivity: do not use if allergic to NSAIDs.
• Caution in cardiovascular disease: evaluate risk of heart complications.
• Store at room temperature: keep in the original pack, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

Naproxen can interact with several medications; awareness helps prevent complications.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin): increased bleeding risk.
• Other NSAIDs: additive gastrointestinal toxicity.
• SSRIs (e.g., fluoxetine): heightened bleeding potential.
• ACE inhibitors (e.g., lisinopril): may reduce renal function.
• Lithium: increased lithium serum levels.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Corticosteroids: enhanced ulcer risk.
• Diuretics: possible renal impairment.
• Antihypertensives: may blunt blood pressure control.
• Methotrexate: reduced clearance leading to toxicity.
• Alcohol: increased gastrointestinal irritation.