Naproxen Viatris (Naproxen)

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

• Mild to moderate pain: provides analgesic relief for acute and chronic pain states.
• Osteoarthritis: reduces joint pain and swelling, improving mobility.
• Rheumatoid arthritis: alleviates inflammation and stiffness in affected joints.
• Dysmenorrhea: eases menstrual cramps and associated discomfort.
• Musculoskeletal injuries: diminishes pain and inflammation after sprains, strains or overuse injuries.

• Naproxen exerts its effect by non‑selectively inhibiting cyclooxygenase (COX‑1 and COX‑2) enzymes, which blocks the conversion of arachidonic acid to prostaglandins. The resulting decrease in prostaglandin synthesis lowers inflammation, pain signaling, and fever responses in the affected tissues.

Naproxen may cause a range of adverse reactions, from mild to severe, depending on individual susceptibility and duration of therapy.

Common Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal upset: nausea, heartburn, or dyspepsia.
• Headache or dizziness.
• Skin rash or mild itching.
• Mild elevation of liver enzymes.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal bleeding, ulceration or perforation.
• Cardiovascular events such as myocardial infarction or stroke.
• Severe skin reactions (e.g., Stevens‑Johnson syndrome).
• Acute kidney injury or worsening of chronic renal disease.
• Hepatotoxicity with marked liver enzyme elevation.

Before initiating therapy, clinicians should evaluate patient‑specific risk factors and monitor for potential complications.

• Assess gastrointestinal risk: review history of ulcers or bleeding before use.
• Monitor renal function: adjust or avoid in patients with significant renal impairment.
• Evaluate cardiovascular status: use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration.
• Check for hypersensitivity: discontinue immediately if allergic reactions occur.
• Avoid concomitant use with other NSAIDs or high‑dose aspirin to reduce additive toxicity.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep below 25°C in the original packaging, protect from moisture.

Naproxen can interact with several drug classes, altering efficacy or safety.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin): increased risk of serious bleeding.
• Methotrexate: heightened toxicity due to reduced renal clearance.
• Lithium: elevated serum lithium levels, risking toxicity.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• ACE inhibitors or ARBs: possible decline in renal function, especially in volume‑depleted patients.
• SSRIs or SNRIs: additive bleeding risk, requiring clinical monitoring.