Naproxen

Naproxen is an NSAID that reduces pain and inflammation across several musculoskeletal and systemic conditions.

• Pain: provides analgesic relief for mild to moderate acute pain.
• Inflammation: decreases inflammatory response in soft‑tissue injuries.
• Fever: lowers elevated body temperature associated with infection or inflammation.
• Arthritis: alleviates joint pain and swelling in osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
• Musculoskeletal disorders: improves function and comfort in back strain, tendonitis and similar conditions.

• Naproxen inhibits cyclooxygenase‑1 (COX‑1) and cyclooxygenase‑2 (COX‑2) enzymes, which blocks the conversion of arachidonic acid to prostaglandins. Reduced prostaglandin synthesis diminishes inflammation, pain signaling, and fever generation at the site of tissue injury.

Adverse reactions to naproxen may vary in frequency and severity.

Common Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal discomfort: nausea, dyspepsia or abdominal pain.
• Headache: mild to moderate intensity.
• Dizziness: occasional light‑headedness.
• Skin rash: mild erythema or pruritus.
• Elevated blood pressure: modest rise in systolic/diastolic values.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal ulceration or bleeding: may present with melena or hematemesis.
• Renal impairment: reduced urine output or increased serum creatinine.
• Hepatotoxicity: abnormal liver enzymes or jaundice.
• Cardiovascular events: increased risk of myocardial infarction or stroke.
• Severe hypersensitivity: anaphylaxis, angioedema or Stevens‑Johnson syndrome.

Before initiating naproxen therapy, consider the following safety measures.

• Assess renal function: avoid use in patients with severe renal insufficiency.
• Evaluate cardiovascular risk: use cautiously in individuals with history of heart disease.
• Monitor gastrointestinal health: avoid in patients with active ulcers or recent GI bleeding.
• Review concomitant medications: check for other NSAIDs, anticoagulants or corticosteroids.
• Pregnancy and lactation: discuss risks with a healthcare professional before use.
• Store at ambient temperature below 25°C: keep in the original pack, protect from moisture.

Naproxen can affect the activity of several other medicines.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin): increased bleeding risk.
• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs): heightened gastrointestinal bleeding.
• Other NSAIDs or COX‑2 inhibitors: additive renal and GI toxicity.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• ACE inhibitors or ARBs: possible reduction in antihypertensive effect.
• Diuretics: potential for decreased renal perfusion.
• Lithium: naproxen may raise serum lithium levels.
• Methotrexate: reduced clearance leading to toxicity.