Naproxen Teva (Naproxen)

Naproxen is an NSAID that reduces inflammation and pain in musculoskeletal and inflammatory conditions.

• Pain: Provides analgesic relief for mild to moderate acute or chronic pain.
• Inflammation: Decreases inflammatory response in conditions such as tendonitis and bursitis.
• Fever: Lowers elevated body temperature associated with febrile illnesses.
• Osteoarthritis: Improves joint function and reduces discomfort in osteoarthritis patients.
• Rheumatoid arthritis: Helps control pain and swelling in rheumatoid arthritis.

• Naproxen exerts its effect by reversibly inhibiting the cyclooxygenase enzymes COX‑1 and COX‑2, which catalyze the conversion of arachidonic acid to prostaglandins. By decreasing prostaglandin synthesis, it reduces the inflammatory mediators that cause pain, swelling, and fever, while preserving platelet function to a lesser extent compared with some other NSAIDs. This inhibition is dose‑dependent and contributes to its therapeutic profile across a range of inflammatory disorders.

Naproxen may cause a variety of adverse reactions, ranging from mild to serious.

Common Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal upset: dyspepsia, abdominal discomfort, or heartburn.
• Nausea: feeling of queasiness, sometimes with vomiting.
• Headache: mild to moderate head pain.
• Dizziness: sensation of light‑headedness or unsteadiness.
• Rash: mild skin redness or itching.
• Elevated liver enzymes: transient increase in hepatic markers.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal bleeding or ulcer perforation.
• Severe cardiovascular events such as myocardial infarction or stroke.
• Acute renal failure or significant decline in kidney function.
• Stevens‑Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis.
• Hepatotoxicity with jaundice or liver failure.
• Anaphylaxis: severe allergic reaction with airway compromise.

When prescribing naproxen, several precautionary measures should be considered to minimize risk.

• Assess gastrointestinal risk: evaluate history of ulcers, bleeding, or chronic NSAID use before initiating therapy.
• Monitor cardiovascular status: use cautiously in patients with heart disease, hypertension, or stroke risk.
• Evaluate renal function: avoid or adjust dose in individuals with impaired kidney function.
• Review concomitant medications: consider interactions with anticoagulants, corticosteroids, and SSRIs.
• Pregnancy and lactation: avoid use during the third trimester and discuss risks with healthcare provider.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep below 25°C in the original packaging, 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.
• Other NSAIDs or aspirin: heightened gastrointestinal toxicity.
• Corticosteroids: additive risk of ulceration and bleeding.
• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs): enhanced bleeding tendency.
• Lithium: naproxen may raise lithium serum concentrations.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• ACE inhibitors or ARBs: possible reduction in antihypertensive effect and renal function.
• Diuretics: may impair renal clearance of naproxen.
• Methotrexate: naproxen can decrease its excretion, raising toxicity risk.
• Antihypertensive agents: NSAIDs may blunt blood pressure control.
• Alcohol: concurrent use can increase gastrointestinal irritation.